Comparing WJ's cars
from 1976 and 2003

That was Then...This is Now

Information compiled by Jon G. Knapp
3/7/03

That was Then...This is Now Information compiled by Jon G. Knapp

Here is a comparison between Warren Johnson's 2003 GM Performance Parts Pontiac Pro Stock Grand AM SC/T and the 1974 Chevrolet Camaro he raced at his first Winternationals in 1976. [Editor's Note: the old photo is Johnson's 1975 Camaro, but it's as close as we could come to finding a file photo of the '74.]

Next month we'll take a look at Don Prudhomme's '65 Greer-Black-Prudhomme dragster and the 2003 Top Fueler driven by Larry Dixon.

 

1976 2003 Manufacturer Chevrolet Pontiac Model Camaro Grand Am SC/T Vehicle Weight 2,750-2,830 lbs. 2,350 lbs. W/driver Engine Type Chevrolet Big Block General Motors DRCE (Drag Racing Competition Engine) Displacement 382-393 cubic inches 500 cubic inches Horsepower Approx. 800 1,340 @ 8,800 rpm Torque Approx. 650 ft-lbs. 835 ft-lbs @ 7,600 rpm Compression Ratio 14.2:1 14.7:1 Chassis Chrome moly steel tubing Chrome moly steel tubing Body Factory steel w/fiberglass hood Carbon fiber / Kevlar composite & front fenders Overall Length Stock 198 inches Width Stock 67 inches Wheelbase 108 inches 105 inches Front Suspension MacPherson strut MacPherson strut Rear Suspension Three-link w/axle-mounted wheelie bars Four-link w/axle-mounted wheelie bars Shock Absorbers Adjustable Electronic adjustable Steering Rack-and-pinion Rack-and-pinion Front Brakes Discs (organic) Carbon fiber discs Data Acquisition System None Computerized system w/multiple reference points Aerodynamics Stock rear spoiler Front air dam, adjustable rear spoiler w/wickerbill Rear Tires 32x14x15 33x17x15 Elapsed Time 8.79 seconds 6.783 seconds Top Speed 155 mph 203.77 mph Approx. Cost per Run $700 $3,500