I have a 1993 SL2 which has a 5 speed manual tranny in it.The problem is, the car doesn't accelerate like it should. When I floor the gas, the car crawls no matter what gear I have it in. When I initially hit the gas I can feel the car go like it should but shortly thereafter it's like it loses all power .Other symptoms are when I hit 3500 rpm 's the car starts buckling and shaking. Also, when I go up a hill I lose all acceleration and power. If the hill where big/steep enough I wouldn't make it up it. The car refuses to go up a hill even in first gear. I've been told it could be a fuel system problem like a bad filter or pump. I've also been told it could be faulty vacuum lines or a plugged catalytic converter. I just want to see if anyone here has any ideas before I start replacing everything. Thanks.
Edited by: delorean004

 

Most likely clogged converter

 

to check the converter remove the three bolts from the exhaust manifold to the front pipe and drive it,might be kind of loud but you should be able to accelerate normally if it is plugged.

 

Thanks for the response I'll check that out.

 

Was that the issue? I'm curious.

 

Yes, turned out to be a clogged cat. I pulled it off and the car flew with no problems at all. Very speedy little car! I was surprised by the actual acceleration. So I just had a local garage weld a new on in and now it runs great. Thanks for the help.