The second generation of F-Bodies ran from 1970 1/2 to 1981. There was a big contrast between the Camaros and Firebirds for this generation. The Camaro started out well with the LT-1 equipped Z28, and big blocks. It went slowly downhill from there. The Z28 model was dropped from 1975 to mid 1977. GM even considered droping the model all together. Towards the late 70's, the car took on more of a handling edge as opposed to the powerful engine edge. It handled quite well for that time period.
The Firebird, on the other hand, stuck it's image in the face of other companies and the face of legislation. They continued on with the RamAir 400, the 455, and the Super Duty 455. The Trans Am model was never dropped in this time period. They even kept a "big" small block until 1979 when they finally dropped the choice of the Pontiac 400 or Olds 403. Pontiac also developed the WS6 package that added 4 wheels disk brakes, larger anti-roll bars, and stiffer springs, among other things. The 1979 Trans Am with the WS6 package could very easily run with a 1979 Corvette through the twisties.
Of this generation, the 1979-81 Z28 and the 1979 Trans Am are by far my most favorite. I just really like this style, more so than the 4th gens, and about the
same as the 3rd gens. My hope is to someday own a 1992 Z28, 1979-81 Z28, and another 1979 Trans Am, but with the Pontiac 400/4 speed combo this time instead of the Olds 403.
I was going to turn this page into a very in-depth, comprehensive 2nd gen web page, but then I found this 2nd Gen Camaro site. It covers the 1970-1981 models with great details. It talkes about engines, rear ends, wheels, trim levels, and option codes. It is the most complete site for 2nd Gen Camaros that I have found. Please stop by there and let the owner know what you think. There really needs to be more support for the 2nd gen cars!!!
2nd gen F-Body sites:
2nd Gen Camaro Home Page
2nd Gen Camaro page
2nd gen Trans Am Source
Eric Rosendahl's Home Page -Includes pics of his cars, including the 1970 Camaro
Greg "GAP" Pearson's Home Page -Including his 1979 Camaro Z28
Cory Tobin's 1980 Trans Am
Jamie Wetsch's Home Page
Carl "Rizz" Boemecke - Including his 1979 Camaro Z28
Brandon Flowers' 1980 Pontiac Trans Am
Clint's Planet Schroedinger
MadMike's Home Page
JanellZ's 1980 Camaro Z28
This is all I have right now. I am really looking for more info on the late 70's/early 80's 2nd gens. If you have any info on these
or other 2nd gens, including web sites, home pages, etc, please let me know.
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