Originally posted by Mad_Medeiros:
anyways I still think gm should just use the simple series 3 supercharged 3800, in the GTP model g6.. thats my opinion, it would be more powerful and cost less to do



It could be they didn't design the length in the nose for the spread of the 90-degree 3800.

While the origins of the 3500 and 3900 may be considered geriatric, the roots of the 3800 are positively ancient. It's likely there are weight benefits realized from using something from the newer, 60-degree engine family as opposed to the older, balance-shafted 90-degree motors. Also, there are long-term costs associated with the blower that, perhaps, Pontiac was trying to take into consideration.

Given Pontiac's proclivity for nose-heavy ditch-diggers, maybe they were trying to break out of the mold with a slightly better packaged engine...but I'm not convinced of it since what I see right now is lots of front overhang, big-cube, iron-block (instead of aluminum) V6's, and curb weights pushing 3400#. I hope it handles better than its looks and spec sheets suggest, since for the first time in a dozen years, I could actually visualize a Pontiac in my driveway.

B. Riley Melbourne, FL '01 Camry LE V6/5-spd Was: '00 Black/Tan SVT Contour #560 - Sold 3/26/03 Before that: '95 Champ/Blue Contour GL V6 ATX