[einstein]

Been thinking that instead of a 400 transplant, I might consider a mid-to-late-90s engine and drivetrain module for my 69 LeMans convertible. This car may see 30K-50K miles yearly.

My buddy recently bought a 97 Firebird convertible with the 3800/auto, and it seems to have plenty of power, but also fantastic fuel economy. I'm guessing similar weight of both cars. He reports like mid 20s local and well over 30 highway. Another friend who was a GM guy refers to the 3800 as "the small-block Chevy of the 90s", so common and perfected is this engine.

Gary ("Cammer-6" on this and several other forums) had previously done a 94 Firebird 3.4L engine in a 1983 S-10 4X4 4-speed Blazer, with the modern alternator, AC compressor and even the little anti-theft "pill" in the ignition switch. Looks like a factory installation, by the way. His son is STILL thrashing it severely.

As an entire powertrain module, it seems a good choice, not too expensive and completely self-contained but for the minor points of the in-tank fuel pump, motor mounts and speedo drive conversion adaptor.

Any input appreciated.