Is there an advantage to one or the other as far as handling, engine bay size, or the way they were built? Also, is there an advantage other than looks to Camaros vs Firebirds.

I read that the 2nd Gen have problems with windows leaking. I've got that now but I just thought it was bad weather stripping.

My 74 Firebird needs new interior and windows and I'm going to have a super fast motor put in. Also, mine didn't come with air conditioning and I'd like to get that when I get the new motor put in but I'm not sure if it would need different ducting.

Just not sure if I should keep this one or get one that's in better shape. If I get another, I'm up in the air as to 1st or 2nd Gen.

 

Personal preferance man. I mean, if youre planning on doing engine work and all you can always just go the extra mile and do suspention for handling. I myself have always liked first gens. I started out with a third gen, I have a 2nd gen now and when i get older im planning on a first gen. Theres just something about them, they have such an aggressive look.

 

If you like 2nd generation cmaro's/firebirds, go for it. Personally, if your looking for style, coolness, and gas sucking v8's( not the smog motors of the 70's) go with a first generation car. My personal preference of all the 1st generations is the 69 camaro. Even though they can tend to be on the pricy side, you will not find a car like the 69. Good luck with whatever you decide and happy crusing

 

Any idea which ones have larger engine bays?

 

2cd gen do....70-81 have the largest

 

I have and have had had both 1st and 2nd generation Camaros and they are distinctly different, and I like them both for different reasons. However, I enjoy driving the 1st generation '69 Camaro because of the attention is draws. 2nd gen's got a little long in the tooth after a while but the 1st gen's were produced for such a short while that they seemed to have maintained their identity a little better. Just one person's opinion. . .

 

the 2'nd gens handle better than the 1'st if left stock

 

The 2nd gens do indeed handle better and GM spent some time on their suspension geometry when developing the car. Like I said, they are distinctly different cars in look and feel and I like them both for different reasons.

 

the 2nd gen is a better handling car because GM realized that after they made the 1st gen, they should have had the steering box on the other side of the steering linkage. this is why you can still use a 2nd gen box on a 1st gen car. all you have to do is turn your pitman arm 180 degrees.

the 69 is also a better handling car then 67 & 68. this is because in 69 they learned that if they staggered the rear shocks, the car would behave better.

 

Those 'Birds are really heavy. Go with a 70-73 for the best packageof handling etc. But, You can't beat the coolness of a 1st Gen.