![]() However, on a nice dry day this car will put a smile on your face … without dropping a single cent on modifications. Just don't expect to roll it out during a blizzard or something without the proper tires, it's performance in the snow is nothing to write home about. So if you've always wanted to get behind the wheel of this American icon, you better act fast.įirst off this car in stock form is an absolute treat and if you are looking for a fun daily driver in good to mildly bad conditions this car will deliver in spades. ![]() Problem is, Ford's beloved pony car is pummeling Pontiac's performance flagship in dealer showrooms, leading GM to drop the axe on its once popular muscle car coupe. With a world-class powertrain, hot-looking sheetmetal and a low base price, the Firebird leaves Mustangs wondering what hit them. A slick-shifting five-speed manual transmission is standard on the V6. This "insurance special" includes bigger tires, a limited-slip differential, dual exhaust and quicker steering. Base Firebirds are powered by a 3800 Series II V6, which makes a peppy 200 horsepower, and can be optioned with a performance package of their own. All V8 models come standard with a four-speed automatic transmission a six-speed manual is a no-cost option. Want even more? The WS6 performance package available on the T/A adds a ram-air induction hood good for 15 extra ponies, a dual-outlet exhaust system, power steering cooler and a specially tuned suspension that makes use of 275/40ZR17 high-performance tires to keep the Ram Air Firebird planted to the ground. Performance from the Corvette-derived LS1 V8 is nothing short of astounding, with its standard 310 horsepower providing enough grunt to get the Firebird to 60 mph in just over 5 seconds. Additionally, convertible versions of the Firebird and the Trans Am (but not the Formula) are available, for a corresponding boost in price. Dual airbags and antilock brakes are standard, and the optional traction-control system can be ordered on all models. The Firebird's cockpit is a futuristic blend of style and function. Not to worry the midlevel Formula provides all of the T/A's hardware and go-fast goodies in a more restrained-looking, lighter, less costly package. ![]() Unfortunately, the bespoilered Trans Am (with its aero skirting, decklid "batwing" and louvered side scoops) ruins the effect. Its blend of angular greenhouse lines and softly bulging sheetmetal creates the automotive equivalent of a supermodel in a silk nightgown. Under the hood, Pontiac installed a 3.8-liter V6 engine for those who didn't really care about performance, while those eager to hit the gas on a drag strip were granted a V8 powerplant.The Pontiac Firebird is a car meant to convey sex appeal. Yet, Pontiac still insisted on installing a bench in the back, which proved to be very useful for a sports bag or a backpack. But, just like the non-facelifted version, it didn't provide enough room for rear passengers. The Firebird featured high-bolstered bucket seats that supported the passengers during high-cornering maneuvers. A set of aerodynamically profiled door mirrors and a wing on the trunk completed the car's aggressive look. Last but not least, the headlights featured two lamps on each side instead of one as on the rest of the Firebirds. ![]() Another major improvement was the V-shaped bumper, which incorporated a pair of foglights mounted closer to the car's center, not on the outer sides. Moreover, it removed the exhaust vents, and that led to a better airflow into the engine compartment and especially to the air filter installed on top of the engine. Unlike the blue-oval contender, Pontiac bragged about its pop-up headlights, even though those were outdated for almost two decades.įor the last refresh, the carmaker installed a revised hood with two bulges that opened at the front with a pair of nostrils-looking air-intakes. Its main competitor from outside GM was the Mustang. It was considered a sports car, and while it lacked the same performances as a Corvette, it was lower priced than it. While it was still a competitive car on the market, it was overshadowed by its Camaro sibling. In 2000, Pontiac released the last sequel o its Firebird, and, even though it wasn't a new vehicle, it was an important refresh. ![]()
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