are there any differences between the 2k+ L36 and the 95-99 L36? The L36 in our 2000 gets better mileage and feel faster. Other than the engine cover, was anything else changed?

they are the same engine, maybe the gearing is different in the trans causing the gas milage difference

but then why is it faster? That would indicate a higher gear ratio.

well what is the milage difference of the engines (gas and odometer reading), a older engine will have less efficiency , than a newer one, also areodynamics have an effect on gas milage

It might be faster because it might weigh less than certain other models. An SLE or SSE will be heavier than an SE. And I believe the 2000+ styles were heavier overall than the 95, and 96-99.

They have the same gear ratios for the most part, and the engines put out the same amount of power.

i was also under the impression that the 2000+ models had the intake failure problem fixed?

actually gameover just had to replace the upper due to failure on his moms 2000 SE, the upper was redesigned in 99

GM claimed it was fixed, but I think it turned out to be little more than that, a claim.

95-99 are lighter, and do perform better with the same trim level/engines.

But newer engines are probably in better shape, or can be, less worn out, etc.

the new ones are pretty slow in comparison to the 95-99'*. close to a second slower in the 1/4.