To start off I want to say this is a great forum and read many pages trying to find answers to my questions.

i want to slowly start buildingthe car, and i would like it to run high 10's-11.5 or so 1/4th.(when I am finally done putitng money into it)

should I buy an LT-1 camaro with a lot of miles (160k)for about 2-3k and start a rebuild with all the parts I want to add,

or buy the same car with 100k for 5-6k and start my rebuild.(this seems like a dumb option but i added it anyway)

another option is to buy a LS-1 which would cost a lot more but weigh less and have a decent base, however this car stock will never get me to where I want so I would have to completly build up this engine too right? so wouldn't that be a waste of money?

the last option is to by a broke *** camaro and drop a crate engine in it,

what do you guys think would be the cheapest route?

start up costs for this car i would like to be under 10k, giver or take a couple k's

 

o yeah manual or auto

 

it might not be the cheapest but if i were u go with the LS1. this way if u ever deside to sell it you will get a lot more for it than the other options. if u can get an ls1 do it cuz the lbottom end is stronger with a 6 bolt main and its a great start for reaching ur 11.5 1/4 milegoal

 

can't argue with ^^^. i'm very partial to the lt1 but either engine can get you to your goals, the ls1 would probably be easier though...however not cheaper.

and an auto will USUALLY, but not always, beat a 6 speed car.

let the flames fly 6 speed guys, lol

 

want 2 buy my camaro 1995 black lt1 leather auto with 126000 u wont be disapointed email me if you are interested rodriguezd20@aol.com selling it for 5500.00 but sale it to you for 5000.00

 

chevyfreak: You can plug your ride in the For Sale/Trade section or communicate with the OP via PM.

To the OP: The LS1 is technically the platform that has more potential. That said, you can probably build a budget LT1 (aka high miles if you're just going to tear out the engine anyway) that will hit 11's with the price difference between it and the LS1 car. You're probably looking at a $4000 difference between cars or so, and I can do a lot to an LT1 for 4 grand. It really depends on your budget, but if you're going to tear down the motor you may as well go for the high mileage vehicle either way.

 

Cheapest way to do it?
Buy one that is already done.
It's a buyers market and lots of people are dumping toys right now at a loss.
A good build isn't cheap and takes time,usually it's a losing proposition if you end up selling the car and in this economy sadly lots of folks are losing right now.
Their loss,your gain.
just my 2cts.