My dad has one, and it's quite impressive. I'm considered buying one for myself, probably a 94 or 95 with six speed. I'm interested in the older ones because i can afford them, and with the exception of the LT4 made in 96, they aren't collectible cars so I can just drive it. This car would be my only vehicle which is OK because I really have no need of cargo room or a backseat.

My big question is how dependable is the LT1 motor? Assuming I find one in good shape, and I'm nice to it (which I always am, even with cheapy cars) is it going to last, or can I expect it to turn to crap at 100k miles? Can I make it 150k-200k before I start having to rent a car to go on long trips?

The LT-1 is a tough motor and will last with proper maintainence.

The LT-1 is a tough motor and will last with proper maintainence.

I thought it might be. It's old school 350 small block; those engines always seemed to be nearly indestructible.

Yeah they are, I had one in my 96 Fleetwood and it was a great motor.

LT-1: I would change the timing chain at 100k miles just be safe. Other than that the engine should run for ever. I had 310k mile on my C-10 when I sold it. I still see it every now and then around town.

You can also do a quick LT4 conversion for a small investment through Scoggin-Dickey. There might be more economical vendors but they stick out in my head at the moment.

I just happen to have that web site bookmarked:
http://www.sdpc2000.com/cart.asp?action=catalog_start&catid=277

You can also do a quick LT4 conversion for a small investment through Scoggin-Dickey. There might be more economical vendors but they stick out in my head at the moment.

My mechanical abilities include changing oil and spark plugs. Any more than that, and I'm hopeless.