Second Gen vs 4th Gen Weight differential? Legally save weight in 2nd Gen TA
 

Hey All...

I know I was one of the people to bring this up in the past but I figured I would bring it to the front of the pile again as I am finally in a position to make a legit run at TCI/FAST Pro Stock. I have my heart set on one of two cars: running a second gen TA or a 4th Gen Firebird. I currently have a '70 TA clone that would be a good candidate for this build as I have a motor that can run the numbers. My problem is that the car has to weigh in at 2935 pounds...that being the case, I would need to somehow shed 500+ pounds out of this car as I believe it weights close to 3500lbs...not to mention its 200 lb driver isn't at the helm. Seriously looking at a second gen, I know I could lose a lot by gutting the doors; changing the wheels, tires and brakes; gutting the impact bracing; running 'glass bumpers; fuel cell; lightweight seats, drivershaft, powerglide; no AC, heater, etc...lighter control arms...while this seems like a lot I am not sure I can make the weight. After doing a sizeable amount of computation and running the numbers on this motor, at 3200 lbs I am still at roughly 8.80s-8.90s but realistically speaking I am sure I can add a few tenths to that...at 2900lbs I am looking at 8.60s.

That being said, I also have the opportunaty to sell off all my other stuff, including this '70 clone car and use a 4th gen bird...I believe I can get the car lighter than the '70 and I feel it is more aerodynamic. Couple that with the wheel base and where the engine falls in that wheelbase and I think I really have the posibility of making something happen.

I guess what I am looking for is some guidance...safe ways to cut weight and be able to maintain structure. What have all you guys done.

Again, I thank you a million times over in advance!

Take care!
BanditDave

Go with the 4th gen...it's a no brainer. Easier to get the weight were you need it, and the body has a lower drag coefficient.

I know Bri...for some reason though I can't get rid of these damn cars...I just keep holding on to them...haha....

Some of the older 4th gens can be had pretty cheap. Look around you should be able to find a great deal on one somwhere. I think I saw one on racingjunk.com a few days ago for cheap.

2nd Gen cars are:
 

FWIW:

Too heavy if ya got to run stock type suspension.

4th easier to get lighter then the 3rd gen.

The later 3rd & 4th have better stock type suspension systems to work with for better 60 ft'ers. Strut fronts and 4 link backs.

Check the BMR Fab website. Best out there for replacement 3rd & 4th gen stock type stuff.

Aero is better with the 3rd over the 4th.