If you are looking for a classic 1980s sports car, you have come to the right place. Below are some examples we love. We also include Pontiac Fiero GT as well as the GM F-Body and the Saab Turbo 16S GT GT. Are there other 1980s cars worth your consideration? Find out the performance history of each model by reading on.
Pontiac Fiero GT
The first production Pontiac Fiero was a two-seat mid-engine sports car that was produced from 1984 to 1988. The Fiero was Pontiac's moral victory, and the car was a viable alternative to Chevrolet's Corvette. Although originally marketed as a commuter automobile, the Fiero was actually designed to be a high-mileage mini car that meets CAFE standards.
GM F Body
The GM-80 Camaro and Firebird would have remained part of the GM F-Body line, but with updated design and performance. The platform of the third generation Camaro was redesign to make it lighter. This would have helped with handling. Although the car was still built with steel structural frames as well as molded plastic panels on its platform, engineers explored the possibility of extruding aluminum and rolling steel tubular constructions. They chose composites due to their corrosion resistance and cost saving.
Saab Turbo 16S GT
From the 1980s, the Turbo 16S was one Saab's most loved models. Saab began exporting vehicles in 1982. The Automatic Performance Control (APC), was also introduced. The car could run on different grades without harming the engine thanks to this system. GLE and Turbo both received central locking doors. Turbo received Asbestos-free brakes. Front pads were semimetallic, and rear ones were silica based. 1984 saw the introduction of a new central console for the GLE model. In addition, bumper decor strips got wider.
Buick GNX
The Grand National Series and GM Company's 1980 and 1982 championships in that series were the inspirations for the GNX. Buick Regal's GNX-based driver was Darrell Waltrip. The engine's 4.1-liter naturally-aspirated V6 was capable of generating 125 horsepower. Buick produced the Buick GNCX from 1983 to 1983. It was then dropped from their lineup.
Saab 944
The Porsche 944 was the first turbocharged high-performance sports car to arrive on the US market. Although it was only produced for a few years between 1983-91, it offered enough power to make Porsche 911 owners forget all about their earlier 911s. The 944 was built until 1991. The production numbers of the 944 range from 2,402 up to 3,098. This model number can be found on the US market under WPOBA and WPOCB.
Porsche 959
The new Porsche 911 Carrera S is fast, but the old Porsche 959 isn't. The 959's handling is incredible, even though the body is only 1,450kg lighter. Although the antilock brakes of the 959 are very effective, the body isn’t as tight so bumps in Molecomb corner could catch you by surprise. The Porsche 959 was a sports car that was popular during its heyday, so a spirited drive might be in order.
Saab Turbo 16S GT GT manual transmission
The Saab Turbo 16S GT is one of the few cars that was produced with a manual transmission. Its 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engines, combined with a five speed manual transmission, made for an enjoyable driving experience. The car's suspension system was developed to ensure that the driver is well protected from road hazards. The double wishbone front and back suspensions gave the car excellent handling and road feel. The rear suspension system consisted of a typical beam axle design stabilised by a Panhard rod. The axle and chassis were connected by Watts linkages that allowed the driver access to various functions. The lower control arm attached to the vehicle's bottom, while the upper link was at the top and faced the rear. The Saab Turbo 16S GT also had power steering.
FAQ
What is the job description for a mechanic in a car?
Three main areas of employment are available for car mechanics:
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Automotive repair shops
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Dealerships
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Independent garages
Automotive repair shops
This is where most people first think of becoming a mechanic. In fact, it's probably the easiest way to get started. You can either work in a shop run by someone else, or start your business.
If you are interested in working at a shop you will need to apply for membership to a union. After being accepted into the union, the union will provide training.
After the training, you will be ready to go and start your job.
If you decide to open your own garage, you'll need to register with the government. Once you have registered, certain standards will be enforced.
Once you register, you'll receive a license that allows you to operate your garage.
Your license will allow you to sell spare parts and do minor repairs. It will not allow you to repair major engine problems.
Customers will expect you to not only sell spare parts but also provide advice and guidance.
Dealership jobs
Most dealerships employ mechanics who can specialize in a particular area of the car. For example, they might only deal with brakes or only replace tires.
Some dealerships hire general mechanics to handle all aspects of car repair.
Many of these positions require that applicants undergo training before they are allowed to work. This allows employers to select the most qualified candidates for their roles.
Some dealerships recruit students right out of school. These graduates are already familiar with basic mechanics and can therefore learn about cars.
Independent garages
Independent garages don't belong to any particular dealership. They are more focused on providing top-quality service.
Independent garages are not associated with any companies so they can afford higher wages. This makes them generally more well-paid than jobs at dealerships.
Independent garages don't necessarily make for better work environments. Many business owners prefer to manage their own businesses rather than delegating responsibility to others.
This could lead to you working long hours with little control over your day.
You should also expect to earn lower wages than if you were employed at a dealership.
The good news? You can easily switch between different types of jobs. You can switch jobs easily if you are interested in working at a dealership. Simply ask your employer if they would be open to hiring you as a mechanic.
Alternativly, you can apply directly to the garage owner if you are interested in working at an independent garage.
The bad news? Finding a new position isn't always easy. There are many other factors that can influence your earnings.
For example, the type of vehicle you repair and whether you charge extra for labor.
What is the average time it takes to become a mechanic?
To become a skilled mechanic, you need years of experience and practice. The best way to learn how to repair cars is by working under the supervision of a professional mechanic.
You'll have to spend time at a garage learning all you can about cars and mechanics. It is important to get familiar with the mechanics of cars and engineering.
Furthermore, you'll need to enroll in auto school.
It's crucial to start as soon as possible. It doesn't matter if you're old or not to study automotive technology. Get started now if you are interested in becoming a mechanic.
Are you looking for a career as an automotive mechanic?
If you are determined to excel, the automotive industry offers many opportunities. The best way to succeed in this field is by working hard and learning as much as possible from others.
You'll need to have excellent communication skills because you'll spend most of your time talking to customers and other employees. It's important to be flexible and willing to travel. This will make commutes difficult.
Consider taking classes at local universities or community colleges if your goal is to pursue a career in the automotive industry. Many schools offer programs specifically designed for students interested in auto repair, sales, or customer service.
Studying mechanical engineering is an option if you're interested in pursuing a degree. You can earn a bachelor's in as little four years.
Many companies will hire students straight out of college. So, it is wise to begin searching for employment while you are still able to study part time.
Once you've completed your education, you'll probably need to complete some form of training before being able to take up a position as an automotive technician.
You will need to pass the Automotive Service Excellence certification exam. This test covers topics including engine maintenance, brakes, steering systems, suspension, and more.
Once you've passed the ASE test, you can apply for a license issued by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.
You can repair vehicles owned by private citizens with a license. In exchange, you'll receive compensation based on the number of services performed.
It's important to note that not all states require licensing. However, licensing is required for anyone who plans to work outside the home state.
Some states don't issue licenses until after completing a certain amount of training. This could be you.
Statistics
- According to the BLS, total auto technician employment is expected to exceed 705,000 by 2030. (uti.edu)
- Apprentice mechanics earn significantly less hourly than mechanics who have completed training, with a median wage of approximately $14.50 an hour, according to PayScale. (jobhero.com)
- 52% of Mechanics in the United States think their salaries are enough for the cost of living in their area. (indeed.com)
External Links
How To
How to be an Automotive Technician
An automotive technician provides repair services and maintenance to vehicles. He/she can be found at auto shops, garages and service centers. He/she works with customers to repair their cars and trucks, ATVs or snowmobiles. An automotive technician must know how to diagnose problems and perform repairs efficiently, safely, accurately, quickly, and correctly.
An associate degree should be obtained from a vocational school if you wish to work as an auto technician. After completing this program the student must pass the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence exam (ASE). ASE stands to American Society of Mechanical Engineers. There are two sections to the ASE certification test. One section tests mechanical knowledge; the second section tests practical skills. To pass the test, you will need to visit an authorized testing location. These locations can be found online or at your local auto dealer.
Before becoming an automotive technician, a candidate must pass the test. It varies depending on the location of the applicant. Some states require candidates to complete a training program, while others let them study on their own. Some states allow technicians to become licensed right away after receiving their license. While others wait until they have had at least six years of experience as an automotive technician.
Apply to your local dealership to become an automotive technician. Most new employees work as apprentices after they have been hired. Apprenticeships last for three years. During this time, a student learns how to perform basic repairs, such as changing oil, adjusting brakes, replacing tires, cleaning spark plugs, inspecting engine compartments, and performing routine maintenance. Some students are taught how to repair engines and replace transmission fluids. Most schools offer classes during regular business hours. However, some schools offer evening classes if needed.
Once a student is done with his/her apprenticeship he/she can become a master journeyman. Journeymen generally spend four- to five decades learning how to fix major systems like transmissions. They learn how to do complex repairs such as remanufacturing engines, rebuilding transmissives, and troubleshooting electronic components. Many employers prefer hiring journeymen because they know the job well and understand what the customer expects.
After passing the exams, candidates may be eligible to open their own shop if they pass all requirements. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were almost 1.7 million available jobs in the automotive mechanic field in 2010. That number was expected to grow by 18 percent from 2009 to 2020. Candidates who decide to open their own business should be prepared to invest thousands in equipment and supplies.
Automotive technicians' salaries depend on many factors such as the employer, whereabouts, education level and experience. On average, an unemployed person could earn $20,000 annually. Someone who has only a highschool diploma could earn around 21,000 dollars per year. Earnings for those with an associate's diploma are approximately $24,000/year. Technicians with bachelor's degrees earn approximately $27,000 per year. Master's degree holders make around $32,000 annually. Salary increases are common, so a professional who earns less than $30,000 now could reasonably expect to earn $40,000 or more in just a few years.