In 96 the 5 speed EX weighed 2483lbs
In 97 the 5 speed EX weighed 2496lbs
In 98 the 5 speed EX weighed 2504lbs

now I dont yet know why the 98 weighs more than the 97 but owning both a 96 and 97 at the same time I found exactly where the extra weight is. Searching many times I could not find anyone that had the reason for the weight increase, it was just assumed it was a chassis reinforcement but unknown as to where. Check it out...

96:


97:


Seems like the bar would weigh more than 13lbs because its pretty thick and heavy duty. I'm not about to unbolt it to weigh it but yeah it goes along the back seat step up area from front seat belt to front seat belt. Looks like a good reinforcement if ya ask me.

 

so why does a 98 weight 8 pounds more than a 97?

 

damn that thing looks like it would stiffen things up A LOT.

I always herd it was because of different amounts of silencing stuff sprayed in the car.