Hello ALL!!

Its good to see the board still going strong!

I was browsing used cars yesterday (as I often do) The weather was lovely and pulled out the convertible for the day. I stopped by Carmax in Richmond and ran across several of the latest gen Chevy Impala. I was impressed with the generous legroom, trunk space, and abundance of toys. The finish of the leather interior was also quite nice, and the buckskin/black color scheme stirred old memories of Bonnie the Ghosthawk

A 2015 model next to it had the pano-sunroof and white exterior, making me wish I could combine the two cars for real throwback moment.

Other than the YouTube road tests there isnt a lot of owner feedback I could find. I admit I didnt dig very hard since it is simply a notion, but a 305hp 3.6 in a 3800lbs car sounds like it could be spirited for big sedan. I did read one post about timing chain issues with this engine.

Any feedback or opinions on the car or drivetrain? I have to admit I liked the car a lot. Maybe a Ghosthawk resurrection?

_________________
2004 Bonneville SLE "Bonnie the Ghosthawk" or the 4dr Firebird...Gone but not forgotten


The Blog, http://www.tobthebat.wordpress.com

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From what I've seen indeed the latest generation of Impala is as close as you will get to a Bonneville nowadays as far as comfort, ride, interior room and trunk space in a sedan. I really don't know a lot about the 3.6 motor, but from what I've read it has plenty of power and durability is ok. I currently have a white tri-coat 04 SLE but it is currently getting a little long in the tooth and the wife wants it gone and replaced with a cross-over SUV primarily for the ride height and ease of entry/exit. I'm going to miss my Bonne!

Huge and relatively well appointed interior and the motor moves the heavy car well.

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-Car Guy Carl
"Penelope" - 2003 SLE - 247k Miles
"Sydney" - 2000 Honda S2000 - 98k miles

I'm not sure what RPO that one has, but if it's LLT, that is what is having the timing chain issues.

It is safely argued that very tight, routine oil changes be maintained. I haven't dealt with any, but I wonder if it's like mine on my LC3 where it uses oil pressure to maintain pressure on the OHC chains. Same here, except a timing chain. As such keeping relatively fresh oil is going to extend longevity. With that, said, on the Lambda platform SUV's that use it, GM extended warranty coverage over the 5 yr/100k. I want to say it was extended to 7yr/120k. So if you're worried, find one that is newer/lower mileage and that it has plenty of warranty left. Under warranty, any issue is covered by GM.

_________________


Retired Bonneville Owner and former GM Tech:
2004 Pontiac Bonneville GXP: Black/Ebony *SOLD*

Summer Toys: Combined 827 RWHP / 877lb/ft RWTQ
2004 Pontiac GTO: Impulse Blue Metallic/Black/M6: lots 'o mods, 415 RWHP / 405lb/ft RWTQ!
2006 Cadillac STS-V: Light Platinum Metallic/Light Gray/A6 - Spectre CAI, Magnaflow exhaust, Speed Inc. tune, 412 RWHP / 472lb/ft RWTQ

Daily Drivers:
2019 Chrysler Pacifica Limited: Mommy's new RGC
2015 Chrysler Town & Country Limited Platinum: Kids new RGC
2007 Chrysler Town & Country Limited: Sold to neighbor
2009 Pontiac G8 GT: L76, Sport Red Metallic
2003 Chevrolet Suburban 2500: Doeskin Tan - 8.1L Big Block... new plow truck
1999 Chevrolet Suburban: Sunset Gold Metallic - Daddy's winter beater and plow truck

I havent had the chance to drive one but 305hp pulling 3800lbs is in the same ballpark as my convertible, which to me feels pretty quick. The again, since my 04 SLE only had about 220hp, the Impala should feel like a rocket by comparison! LOL

I'm definitely impressed with the room and comfort of the seats. There arent many cars where I have to move the seat forward[i][/i] to get a comfy position.

This bears closer scrutiny Thanks for the input guys!

_________________
2004 Bonneville SLE "Bonnie the Ghosthawk" or the 4dr Firebird...Gone but not forgotten


The Blog, http://www.tobthebat.wordpress.com

Luna LeMans on Smashwords
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/870754

Luna LeMans in Amazon paperback
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1983273589