Dilemma. Getting close to purchase. V6 vs. V8. Questions for you guys - Page 6 - Camaro5 Chevy Camaro Forum / Camaro ZL1, SS and V6 Forums

ShowSStopper · 10-15-2012, 04:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BowtieBelle

Not the ones on this forum apparently. It is kinda a hoot how the OP said he can't really afford the SS but people here are just telling him to get it anyway.

justinxxvii · 10-15-2012, 04:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jonster

After reading this thread....you guys have inspired me. I honestly was one of those people waiving between the 2013 2SS and 2LT w/ RS package, auto trans, and convertible. I am 23 years old and this will be my first "real" new car.

I know for a fact I will never race this car or care about my quarter mile time, but yet I was so hung up on getting the SS. I found out it was mostly because i felt like I needed it to have a "real camaro". I test drove the SS and obviously loved it, but i found myself just accelerating all the time and wasting gas in 45mph zones (which I can afford, but find stupid).

After test driving a V6...I knew this was enough power for me. I want to thank you guys who posted (especially ShowSStopper) for now I will be looking into purchasing a 2LT instead of a 2SS.

You're just like me, bro. I have a test drive set up for 6:30 PM tonight. I may even be able to get into the 2012 2LT at the price range I can play with!

ardailsmith · 10-15-2012, 04:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by justinxxvii

tl;dr:

So I'm in a dilemma. V6 drivers, what can you offer me in encouragement to get over myself?

V8 drivers, what can you offer me in encouragement to go after my dreams?

OK this is what you need to do.

1. DO NOT GET THE V6, because I don't want to see you post 4 months from now saying, I should have got a V8

. Besides the numbers on the board at the time that I wrote this was 179 V6s to 153 V8s, that's by owners and the V8 numbers could use the help. I drive a 6 and I love it and I don't want an 8. The V6 is not for you, you will not be happy.

2. DO NOT GET THE SS, because I don't want to see you post 4 months from now saying, I should have got the ZL1 or the 1LE

. You all ready stated in your post how you want the top/best Camaro and the SS would not be it.

The bottom line if you want the top go with a ZL1 or a 1LE. Like your dad said get what you want, that's what I did that why I drive a V6. I got what I wanted not what others told me I should get.

But don't buy in to that its not a Camaro if its not an 8 crap

. Its a Camaro because Chevrolet says it is. Camaro has had a 6 option from day one.

justinxxvii · 10-15-2012, 04:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ShowSStopper

You're welcome and I'm really glad I could help.

A 2LT is an excellent car...you get all the options possible, and don't have to pay $40k+ for it.

As you probably realize now after driving both, the SS makes a great weekend toy..but it's one expensive daily driver. Since you clearly said you won't be going to the track or trying to break any land speed records, I would say you are making the right decision. I mean, right off the top, that's...well...ok I will guess on the low side...you are saving let's say $8k off the sticker of a 2SS/RS...more after finance charges. So you will have a fully loaded, very sleek car and plenty of cash in your pocket.

I'm sure you've heard the saying "There's no replacement for displacement." Well, let me tell you something from my experience...there's no replacement for money in the bank either.

Who knows? Maybe you get a nice 2LT, and you save up since you won't have a monster payment to deal with....what's to say you don't have a great downpayment on a next-gen SS and a paid-off 2LT to drive also?

Anyway, I think you are making the right choice. If finances improve, and you really want to step it up, then take another look at the SS. But if you are going to daily drive the car and don't want the maintenance of a V8, then the V6 is definitely for you.

And the mentality that a V8 Camaro is the only real Camaro is stupid. Utter

that people like to spout off when they are trying to compensate for "short-comings" elsewhere. If it says "Camaro" on it, and it came from Chevrolet, then guess what? It's the real deal, no matter what engine is in it.

Good luck!

Ok guys, case closed! I think I'll shop for the 2LT. The only reason I wanted a V8 was for the pride, when it really wouldn't matter to anyone but me. I like the mail slot but I can live without it if it means I have more money to spend on a set of winter rims and tires, a different stripe package etc.

Out of curiosity, what is the "maintenance factor" I keep seeing here, with regards to keeping the V8 in prime condition. Is it more of a PITA with the V8?

mcbeth15 · 10-15-2012, 04:55 PM

Listen to Belle. She' given you the right advice. And don't forget to include the wife in this, she's going to be part of this equation too, might even get ya a few brownie points too!

gjdavids · 10-15-2012, 04:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ShowSStopper

You're welcome and I'm really glad I could help.

As you probably realize now after driving both, the SS makes a great weekend toy..but it's one expensive daily driver. Since you clearly said you won't be going to the track or trying to break any land speed records, I would say you are making the right decision. I mean, right off the top, that's...well...ok I will guess on the low side...you are saving let's say $8k off the sticker of a 2SS/RS...more after finance charges. So you will have a fully loaded, very sleek car and plenty of cash in your pocket.

Who knows? Maybe you get a nice 2LT, and you save up since you won't have a monster payment to deal with....what's to say you don't have a great downpayment on a next-gen SS and a paid-off 2LT to drive also?

Anyway, I think you are making the right choice. If finances improve, and you really want to step it up, then take another look at the SS. But if you are going to daily drive the car and don't want the maintenance of a V8, then the V6 is definitely for you.

And the mentality that a V8 Camaro is the only real Camaro is stupid. Utter

that people like to spout off when they are trying to compensate for "short-comings" elsewhere. If it says "Camaro" on it, and it came from Chevrolet, then guess what? It's the real deal, no matter what engine is in it.

Good luck!

Well said....I posted earlier about how much I love my car, but I do only get about 21.5 mpg on the highway after improvements from an CAI and a muffler/resonator delete. I actually hope to one day get a V6 to use as my daily driver and have the SS for a weekend toy....good luck on whatever decision you make.

BowtieBelle · 10-15-2012, 05:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by justinxxvii

Ok guys, case closed! I think I'll shop for the 2LT. The only reason I wanted a V8 was for the pride, when it really wouldn't matter to anyone but me. I like the mail slot but I can live without it if it means I have more money to spend on a set of winter rims and tires, a different stripe package etc.

Out of curiosity, what is the "maintenance factor" I keep seeing here, with regards to keeping the V8 in prime condition. Is it more of a PITA with the V8?

The oil changes are almost twice as expensive; brake jobs are much more expensive with the brembos; you'll go through tires faster (at +/- $300 apiece), etc.

matt6589 · 10-15-2012, 05:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ShowSStopper

I'm sure you've heard the saying "There's no replacement for displacement." Well, let me tell you something from my experience...there's no replacement for money in the bank either.

dkg11 · 10-15-2012, 05:10 PM

well if you get to read mine after you went through all of these other ones here is my input... one if you can afford it, even if it you can barely afford it, but still afford it and not it impact your life, yes you may have to make other hobby sacfrifices, but the SS is a hell of a car. When you are driving down the road and someone notices an SS they always say or think oh thats an SS guys a badd*ss, and are greatly respected, not saying if you would get a V6 you wouldnt be, its just an SS is a 6.2L powerhouse!... you can have so much fun in these cars that i dont think i would want a V6 yes it is less costly, but always think you get what you pay for

CamaroJim56 · 10-15-2012, 05:38 PM

Buy what you can afford. You will regret even more if you can't afford it and have to watch that tow truck take it away.

In addition to sticker costs, check insurance and gas....

Sure I'd love to have the V8, and maybe will one day, but the V6 flies as well.
(and I could keep the 6 and pay cash for the 8, so money not an issue)

IF, you or your wife would happen, god forbid, to lose your job.. which would you rather have in this job market?

oyealiz · 10-15-2012, 05:50 PM

OP...I'm solidly in the camp of not buying more than you can afford. Seems to me that would greatly diminish the enjoyment of having the SS.

I agree with all the "you only live once" people, but I look at it in a totally different way, evidently. I also say "you only live once"...so be wise with your financial decisions! Don't overspend and be strapped for cash.

I bought a v6 because I didn't care to spend any more than what the v6 cost. I was adding another car just because I saw the aqua blue and wanted one. I drove the v6, it was fun, and I've not regretted it. Would I buy an SS now if there was a good deal on one? If it was just like mine otherwise: aqua blue, 6 spd and sunroof, then maybe! LOL But I'm not looking for one.

I've had Vettes for years. Still do. And I still love my v6 Camaro, after a few years of ownership. I don't like the silliness here about people thinking (and posting!) that you're obviously poor, probably gonna be sorry, blah blah blah whatever just because you make the decision to get a v6.

Bottom line, a car isn't worth strapping yourself financially, IMO. And only you know your situation and what is comfortable for you. You can always buy a used v6 at a good price now, and if and when you financial situation changes, you can get a v8 later without losing alot of money.

Good luck with your decision!

Vroom_vroom · 10-15-2012, 06:07 PM

X2
Just like being "house poor" you can be "car poor". If it puts a strain on things don't do it as cool as it sounds. When the need to go fast hits save your $ and buy something you can afford to break.
But my v6 will cook! The manual trans makes it seem faster/ and it makes for a fun daily driver. I'm still amazed how many people love the car, any one who will bother to ask about the motor will know its still a pretty sweet set up.

SSBlack · 10-15-2012, 06:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BowtieBelle

The oil changes are almost twice as expensive; brake jobs are much more expensive with the brembos; you'll go through tires faster (at +/- $300 apiece), etc.

SS OEM Pirelli's are $250 for the rears, $200 for the fronts. Other brands are even cheaper. Synthetic oil and capacities and frequencies definitely will cost more. Same for brakes.

Maintenance still wouldn't be a deal killer for me.

The day I bought my SS, someone asked me if it was a V8. Not one single person has, since. If that is a big deal to you OP (and it is for a lot of people), you will be starting a thread in a few months about trading your V6 in for a V8.

If not, enjoy whatever you decide on.

ShowSStopper · 10-15-2012, 06:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by justinxxvii

Ok guys, case closed! I think I'll shop for the 2LT. The only reason I wanted a V8 was for the pride, when it really wouldn't matter to anyone but me. I like the mail slot but I can live without it if it means I have more money to spend on a set of winter rims and tires, a different stripe package etc.

Out of curiosity, what is the "maintenance factor" I keep seeing here, with regards to keeping the V8 in prime condition. Is it more of a PITA with the V8?

The maintenance comes in the form of expensive tires, expensive gas, expensive oil changes (unless you like to do it yourself), etc.

Basically, when people say "maintenance factor", they are talking about all the really small stuff that is important to keep the car running well.

V8 maintenance is more of a PITA because it uses only expensive tires, takes a butt-load of oil each time you get an oil change, and drinks gas like a mad man. So it's just more expensive. You just have to weigh those expenses with your desire for a V8 and decide if it's worth it.

I decided it was worth it to trade my V6 in...had a 1LT/RS. However, you are looking at a 2LT...so it has all the bells. Neither of my Camaros have had leather (this is Texas) and neither had HUD. The only thing I wish I had was the gauge cluster, but I can add that aftermarket for CHEAP compared to springing for the 2SS.

It's all in what you want. That's probably the best advice I can give. If you want everything the Camaro offers, then go 2LT. If you want a stripped down, more race-oriented car, then the 1SS is for you.

Then if you want to be payment-strapped, borrow gas money, and not enjoy the ride, there's always the 2SS/RS.

10-15-2012, 05:10 PM	#79
dkg11 Drives: 2010 Camaro 2SS Join Date: Apr 2012 Location: Cleveland Ohio Posts: 387 View My Garage	well if you get to read mine after you went through all of these other ones here is my input... one if you can afford it, even if it you can barely afford it, but still afford it and not it impact your life, yes you may have to make other hobby sacfrifices, but the SS is a hell of a car. When you are driving down the road and someone notices an SS they always say or think oh thats an SS guys a badd*ss, and are greatly respected, not saying if you would get a V6 you wouldnt be, its just an SS is a 6.2L powerhouse!... you can have so much fun in these cars that i dont think i would want a V6 yes it is less costly, but always think you get what you pay for __________________ 2010 Camaro 2SS/LS3 Magna Flow Street series Exhaust Airaid Intake+throttle body Custom tune by Bob Morreale www.thetuningschool.com QTP Electronic Exhaust cut-outs 12'' Alpine type R with 1500watts double ported box Tinted windows 392RWHP on Mustang Dyno #13933

10-15-2012, 05:38 PM	#80
CamaroJim56 Obsessed Drives: 2016 Hyper Blue 2SS RS Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: Riverview, FL Posts: 2,606	Buy what you can afford. You will regret even more if you can't afford it and have to watch that tow truck take it away. In addition to sticker costs, check insurance and gas.... Sure I'd love to have the V8, and maybe will one day, but the V6 flies as well. (and I could keep the 6 and pay cash for the 8, so money not an issue) IF, you or your wife would happen, god forbid, to lose your job.. which would you rather have in this job market? __________________ 2016 Hyper Blue 2SS

10-15-2012, 06:07 PM	#82
Vroom_vroom The gritos pollo!!! Drives: Like a idiot Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Las Vegas Posts: 1,215 View My Garage	X2 Just like being "house poor" you can be "car poor". If it puts a strain on things don't do it as cool as it sounds. When the need to go fast hits save your $ and buy something you can afford to break. But my v6 will cook! The manual trans makes it seem faster/ and it makes for a fun daily driver. I'm still amazed how many people love the car, any one who will bother to ask about the motor will know its still a pretty sweet set up. __________________ https://www.youtube.com/@FredJrsGarage ‘19 Silverado 3500 dmax ‘77 trans am ‘63 c2 Shopping for more Camaros

10-15-2012, 04:55 PM	#75
mcbeth15 Drives: '11 RS 2LT IBM Join Date: May 2012 Location: Havre de Grace, MD Posts: 673	Listen to Belle. She' given you the right advice. And don't forget to include the wife in this, she's going to be part of this equation too, might even get ya a few brownie points too!

10-15-2012, 05:50 PM	#81
oyealiz Drives: c7 3LT, manual, vert Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: DFW, Texas Posts: 1,204	OP...I'm solidly in the camp of not buying more than you can afford. Seems to me that would greatly diminish the enjoyment of having the SS. I agree with all the "you only live once" people, but I look at it in a totally different way, evidently. I also say "you only live once"...so be wise with your financial decisions! Don't overspend and be strapped for cash. I bought a v6 because I didn't care to spend any more than what the v6 cost. I was adding another car just because I saw the aqua blue and wanted one. I drove the v6, it was fun, and I've not regretted it. Would I buy an SS now if there was a good deal on one? If it was just like mine otherwise: aqua blue, 6 spd and sunroof, then maybe! LOL But I'm not looking for one. I've had Vettes for years. Still do. And I still love my v6 Camaro, after a few years of ownership. I don't like the silliness here about people thinking (and posting!) that you're obviously poor, probably gonna be sorry, blah blah blah whatever just because you make the decision to get a v6. Bottom line, a car isn't worth strapping yourself financially, IMO. And only you know your situation and what is comfortable for you. You can always buy a used v6 at a good price now, and if and when you financial situation changes, you can get a v8 later without losing alot of money. Good luck with your decision!