I Love This Site

[wisemankw]

First of all I just want to say I'm very very happy to have found this website. I have been in love with Bonnevilles since I purchased my first 1994 bonne in 2003. I currently own a 1996 Buick Park Avenue and love these engines (mechanics always drool when they see them). I found this site while looking for ways to mod my future Bonneville SSEI. In a few months (as little as 3 if everything goes right) I will be purchasing another bonneville.

Sad to say I haven't treated my first two cars with much care, but I will be definately babying this new one. I plan on getting a 94 - 2002 SSEI. I like the body style of the earlier models a little better and their a bit cheaper so I'm shooting for a 99 SSEI. Are there any big differences I should be aware of between the 94 - 99 models besides the jump in horsepower from 95 - 96. If the horsepower difference isn't that big a deal and no other problems/concerns I would be able to get a 94 SSEI for pretty cheap I'm thinking.

I look forward to alot of chatting and hopefully you guys are too. I will be needing ALOT!!! of help and will probably ask question tons of questions . I'm going to get some of those Pontiac Bonneville Club decals as soon as I get the car.

PS: Did I say that I REALLY LOVE BONNEVILLES

[bonnevillain]

in 98 the 4t-65e transmission was introduced. The jump in HP in 96 was not just a jump in HP, it was a brand new engine. If you plan to mod, go with a series 2 (96+) engine. If you just want a daily driver with not much serious modification, an older model will work just as well, at a cheaper price

[willwren]

The 4T65E was first introduced in 1997 for the SSEi, not 1998.

If you plan to mod, every mod available for a Series 2 is available for a Series 1 with the exception of an intercooler. Cams are more expensive, but not custom-ground, and every other part is comparable in price. As a basic difference, the S1 has better bottom end torque (delivered at a lower RPM) and the S2 has better 'freeway passing HP', while only 5hp more, it's delivered at a higher RPM.

There were some subtle changes between 94 and 95 as well, so I'd lean to 95 as your starting year.

Overall, the Series 1 seems to have a bit stronger and long-running bottom end than the S2. Beware of overflow tank/radiator sludge when shopping from the DEX-cool. Inspect what you can see in the front valve cover too. Aside from that, the color/smell of the trans fluid and the way it shifts is going to be your primary concern.

[GoldenBullet]

welcome to the club

[Aviator327]

Howdy and welcome to the club. Post some pics.

[Roadtech195]

Welcome southern brother