Impala: best pick 3.4 or 3.8 engine?

3.8 over the 3.4 any time 3.8 = more torque.

Both are good engines. Impala also have a problem with the Intermediate Steering Shaft, some clunking noise issue. Not sure if this has been rectified for 2004.

3400 V6 -180 HP/ 205 TQ, 3800 V6 - 200HP / 225 TQ, 3800 SC V6 - 240 HP / 280 TQ

3400 - 21/32/ MPG

3800 - 20/30 MPG 3800 SC 18/28 MPG

You can get the 3800 in the base model for $995 and it includes Traction Control, Anit Lock Brakes, Tire Pressure Monitor, SPort Touring Suspension, 225/ 60 R16 Touring Tires, ( Requires 1SC preferred equipment group ) .

========= Harryface =========

1991 Pontiac Bonneville LE ~_~_~267,018 miles_~_~_

I've heard all the modifications are in the ECU.

I have a 2002 with the 3.4 in it and have experienced no problems. It runs great and on a recent trip, we clocked 36 mpg in both directions (good weather and used cruise most of the time). I've heard that the

3.8 is a better engine though (except for fuel mileage).

****************************************** I would rather be exposed to the inconveniences attending too much liberty than to those attending too small a degree of it. ~ Thomas Jefferson ~

I looked inside an Impala sqaud car and it lacked the Traction Control button so I'm assuming it had the 3400. TC is standard with a 3800 equipped Impala.

========= Harryface =========

1991 Pontiac Bonneville LE ~_~_~267,018 miles_~_~_

You mean "while being put into the back of an Impala squad car I looked on the dash and it lacked...."

:D

Here are the specs for the Police Impala:

Motor Trend or Car and Driver had a article some time ago about this vehicle. Apparently, the oil pan, suspension, transmission cooler, oil pump and a plethora of items were modified for the rigors of police use.

Lots of mods just for getting coffee and doughnuts :)

Perhaps some digging around for info on that steering rack is in order before you buy. I have heard rumors that the rack can lock up without warning. (Heard one story about a cop car that locked steering during pursuit and endo'd into a ditch.) If I recall, that rack is rather common in GM applications, even including some SAAB models.

I have a Buick with the original 3800 series engine. It has the exact same specs as the 3400 engine and is plenty powerful. The advantage is 21/32 mpg vs my Buick's 18/27 mpg.

I'd go with it for that reason. Good engine - as powerful as the older generation, but smaller, lighter, and more efficient. Less out the door cost as well.

Steering Rack: I had mine repaired, actually there is a GM Service Bulletin which calls for lubrication of the intermediate shaft. It is something like 0.8 hrs labor plus the special lube kit. Cost me about 75 USD. Steve