star@cdstar.UUCP (J Quillard) (09/13/85)
A mid-engined, V6 Vette?
Internal politics at GM might prevent it, because a confilct
with the Fiero would be created. I don't mean the current
Fiero, but the Fiero Pontiac plans to be building - with a
proper suspension, solid 5 speed, turbocharged, etc.
The front engine/rear drive layout may be "old-fashioned",
but it does offer predictable STREET handling (that is,
it doesn't spin as easily as a mid engine design).
The advantages of a V6 (all aluminum, turbo, etc) are better
fuel economy and weight savings. If these are genuine concerns
that bother GM about the V8 Vette, why don't they scrap
the V6 idea and design a 4 cyl engine?? (For example the 944 Turbo
is 4 cyl, 200+hp, and 20+mpg)
There have been many experimental Vettes with mid or rear
engines, though most have been based on the V8. There also
was a number of ROTARY engine Vette prototypes that were shown
in the mid to late 1970s. According to the Vette magazines,
Chevrolet is developing an all new V8 with twin overhead cams,
32 valves, all aluminum, etc. for use as an Indy or GTP race motor.
"Tach it up, tach it up, buddy, gonna shut you down!" Beach Boys
{talcott,wjh12}!cdstar!star J Quillard @ Cambridge Digital Systems