Question for those who've had experience with Trans Ams

[jamesp81]

In my neverending question for a used car that suits me, I'm considering buying American instead of foreign. The main reason for this is that the foreign car makers have got to where their cars are either exceedingly boring, are stylish but are essentially all show and no go (Honda and Toyota, I'm talking to you), or are too costly (Nissan).

Within my price point is the 98-99 Pontiac Trans Am. Now that's a vehicle that can back up its looks with actual performance. I was wondering if anyone here had ever owned one and could tell me something about it's dependability. I can probably afford to get one with around 75k miles on it, and I was wondering how well the engine, transmission, and electrical stuff on it held up. I don't mind getting little trim type things worked on, but I don't want to be having to take it in to a shop and getting things like transmissions replaced at 120k miles. How well does the engine and transmission age as it gets into high mileage? If I take care of it, can I expect to get 150k miles or should I expect it to lay down on me before that?

[Andydg]

I've always heard good things about them. I've seen the LS1 Trans Ams go over 130k miles and have little to no problems. The weak areas on them are the little 10 bolt rear ends, window motors, and the occaisional leaky T-top.

[Cl0ak]

I had a 95, needed a new tranny at 65k along with a pretty large list of repairs that caused me to sell it. Granted I was the second owner and do not know what the previous owner may have done to it, thats the problem with cars like the trans am they are often abused.

I'd say have it inspected before purchase but I really loved mine, just couldn't afford it between the insurance, gas, and repairs.