What's the real difference between these two that would prevent most people from purchasing a 160? I'm sure I'll get a 180, I'm just wondering since logic would suggest that a cooler engine performs better.

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Black 2001 SSEi | Performance: INTENSE FWI, INTENSE Shift Kit, INTENSE 180* Thermostat, GXP Calipers (custom powder coated), EBC GD Sport Drilled and Slotted Rotors, EBC Redstuff Brake Pads Aesthetic: Debadged | Cleared Front and Rear Corners | Red Rear Turn Signals | Bright White LED Reverse Lights | Black Centerpiece | Black Pontiac Emblem | 35% Huper Optik Tint | GXP Interior (Carbon Fiber Vents and Handle Inserts, Stainless Handles, Shifter, Black Buttons for Windows and Cockpit, Cupholders) | Hood and Rear Quarterpanel Herpes

The computer is trying to warm the engine below 170*, and that is the magic number in many of the trouble codes as well. A custom tune top to bottom would be needed to make the most of it, and even then, it may not be the best idea for a daily driver. You will need a tune to drop the fan turn on temps to maximize even the 180*, otherwise the fans will still come at the same temp, and you will need open road, or running the A/C to capitalize.

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~Randall~


1993 Buick Park Avenue - 197k - Some odds and ends done - Simply won't die
1994 Buick Regal - 78k - Bone stock - Always ready for a good kicking
1990 Oldsmobile 88 - Gone to a better place

With either the 160 or the 180, as soon as the engine warms up, the temperature will vary depending on conditions between 160 and 195.
The biggest difference is in the time it takes to reach that static, albeit varying condition. During this time, the engine is in enrichment mode and it will not be fuel efficient.
Since mine is not really a daily driver, I can get away with the 160 stat and custom fan tune.....and swallow the 12 mpgs in return for blistering performance for 30 minutes of fun.
I run a 160 in my Firebird also....always have.

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2000 SSEi - SilverBullet - 78,000 kms, 4" "straight shot" custom headlight ram air inlet, TOGs, 1.9's, Lsd, 2.9-3.4"MPS 10-15 psi, Ported GenV, EGR eliminated, OR pushrods, oil volume kit, trani cooler & shift kit, Titanium retainers, 90 lb springs, 160 Stat, 42# injectors, Fuel pump voltage increase, Wideband O2, 3" to dual 2 1/2" Magnaflows, Snow Meth/water injection, after SC temp gauge, 255/50WR17, timing commander set 15-18*@WOT, 2 speed Fan over-ride, disabled DRL, Solid motor mount, Meziere Electric water pump, adjustable fuel pressure regulator, Drilled & slotted rotors/ceramics, GXP sway bars and STB, Upgraded and rebuilt transmission with ZZP 2500 rpm stall TC, Pioneer Bluetooth stereo with sub and 800 W amps, PB 13.5 quarter, (April 2014 car of the month)