Convertible Page 3
ASC continued to build the Cavalier and Sunbird convertibles through these years. The remainder of the "First Generation" J-body convertibles used the same hardware and fabrication techniques established in 1983, as the overall dimensions to the cars did not change. Trim levels changed, however. The Cavalier convertible was built on the Type 10 series in 1984 and 85. This model featured blackout trim and red-striped door and side mouldings and emblems. In 1985 a 2.8 liter V6 engine was made available. In 1986 and '87 the Type 10 series evolved into the RS line. Originally GM was going to call this series the "Eurosport" similar to the Celebrity Eurosport. At the last minute Chevrolet changed its mind and the familiar RS nameplate was affixed to the series. According to official literature Chevy did not offer a Z24 convertible in 1986 or 1987, but a few have been known to exist.
Pontiacs
The Pontiac J2000 Sunbird in 1983, and finally just the "Sunbird" in 1985. Engines options included a 1.8 SOHC turbo 4 cylinder in the early SE models and later GT's, and 2.0 SOHC n/a 4 cylinder in the LE's. Later turbo models recieved louvered hoods among other features.
2.8 liter multi-port V6, the Z24 was a perfect candidate for a droptop. The Sunbird also continued its turbo option on the GT series. During this time, the new second generation model featured
The Cavalier RS convertible re-appeared in 1993 and was available with either a 2.2 OHV 4 cylinder motor, or the 3.1 V6 that later became the Z24 motor. Pontiac Sunbird owners could also opt for this fun motor in the 1993 and 1994 model years. The second generation J-body went out with a bang.
2001 was the last year GM offered a convertible J-body car, while the series itself would continue to be produced until 2005.
