2001 Pontiac Trans Am: Modern Day Classic
01/11/07(updated 12/07/11)
The 2001 and 2002 model years are basically the same cars except that the 2002 had a collector's edition in a yellow and black color scheme. They have the high performance LS1 engine that produces 310 HP in the base Trans Am and 325 HP in the WS6 version. The 2001 convertibles are quite rare already as only 396 were produced in the regular T/A and another 796 in the WS6 T/A. These ragtop cars sold for well over $30,000 which accounts for the low production, plus the model year ended early in May 2001 to get the Quebec plant ready to roll out the final year 2002 Trans Ams. These ultra low production numbers spell future classic as the years pass by. Having owned both a 1996 and a 2001 I can speak with some experience in saying that these cars are American muscle at it's finest. Extremely fast cars that handle very well and attract lots of attention. The engines are very solid, and if not abused and raced, will last easily past 150,000 miles. Unfortunately many Trans Ams have been abused by their owners and any potential buyer needs to do their homework to make sure the car was owned by the right person, otherwise you will be buying trouble. No car can take abuse no matter how well made. Some repairs to expect over the course of time in these Trans Ams are the headlight motors and gears which raise and lower the headlamps, the power window motors, and some owners have complained of door panel cracks on the interior side of the door (cosmetic issue). Tires are rather expensive (Goodyear GSD3 replacements are $150+ per tire) and you should not buy cheap tires for these cars. Thay are a bear to handle in wet weather due to all the power to the rear wheels and getting cheap tires will make matters even worse. Young drivers need to be aware of VERY high insurance costs. Check first if that is a financial issue. Convertibles carry even a higher comprehensive insurance cost if you opt for that. Just things to keep in mind. With those negatives being said, you will not find a better American muscle car (other than Corvette which has the same LS1 engine in these model years) on the road. The cockpit fits nicely and the cars are a delight to drive. The Trans Am actually brings a smile to your face every time you turn the key. They are that much fun to drive. ***Update Dec '11. Nothing has changed my impression or review since the last time I wrote about this wonderful car. Extremely reliable and the 'thumbs up' from so many people gets more evident as the years go by. Hard to believe this car is now 11 years old. No repair issues to report, just normal maintenance. Change those fluids (Dexcool, power steering, brakes, etc..) and the car will reward you with excellent longevity.
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