Hey guys.....I recently got the urge to buy a GM car with the series II 3800 under the hood. After doing some brief general research I decided that a Bonneville would be the best choice/fit for me. My question is which year should I look for and why (safety, mechanical/electrical reliability, performance, etc.)? I was thinking that anywhere between 96-99 would be the best, but I don't know. Keep in mind that I would want the supercharged version of the series II 3800....also what kind of price do you think I would be looking at if I were to get one from a private party or dealer with the area of around 60-70k miles on it? Thanks for the help....I really appreciate it.

If you are looking for a supercharged 96-99 are good years. Things to keep in mind if you are planning on modifying the car for more power, 97-99 the PCM is available easily. 96 is not readily available from most sources.

Keep an eye out for performance ride and touring ride buttons. That means CCR struts. If both lights are lit..there is a malfunction with the system.

I'm sure others will add plenty.

Just to clarify what Bill said, the perform ride/touring ride buttons are left of the shifter.

Just you know, the L36 (naturally aspirated), there'* nothing wrong with them. They're fairly quick. So if you only find SE Bonnevilles, don't be disappointed

However, Boost is addictive so I suggest getting a */C Bonne too. Definitely pick the 97-99, they have way less buttons than the 00+

First of all L36 = everyday boring engine IMO, not as fun...


Find a SC bonnie, 96 will work too, mods are not as plentiful as the 97+ but they have the 4t60ehd which usually has less failures under heavy abuse, at least from what I have seen.


Fuel: As far as buttons I have NFC what you are talking about, the 96-99 have just nearly as many buttons if not more as a 2000. There are 9 buttons just to control the seats lol.


Finally where are you from? We can probably help you track down some SSEis to look at.

Go with an 00-03 SSEi that is where its at best styling and performance. Not as fast as a 96-99 SSEi tho but looks way cooler seats are not as good tho.

Its all about the looks... and yeah, he'* right.

I don't know about you guys but I would rather be comfortable first. I mean, you'll be the one driving it a lot so I would put comfort over looks unless it'* a absolute bargain.

I and my family with 3 almost six footers and one at about 5 '7 are very comfy in my big Bonneville SLE! We big people like big MOTHER cars! With style, luxury and most important 'TUDE!

im comfortable in a good-looking car. mwa ha ha