The
Pontiac Firebird was built by the
PontiacPontiac was an automobile brand that was established in 1926 as a companion make for General Motors' Oakland. Quickly overtaking its parent in popularity, it supplanted the Oakland brand entirely by 1933 and, for most of its life, became a companion make for Chevrolet. Pontiac was sold in the...
division of
General MotorsGeneral Motors Company , commonly known as GM, formerly incorporated as General Motors Corporation, is an American multinational automotive corporation headquartered in Detroit, Michigan and the world's second-largest automaker in 2010...
between 1967 and 2002. The Firebird was introduced the same year as the automaker's
platform-sharingAn automobile platform is a shared set of common design, engineering, and production efforts, as well as major components over a number of outwardly distinct models and even types of automobiles, often from different, but related marques...
model, the
Chevrolet CamaroThe Chevrolet Camaro is an automobile manufactured by General Motors under the Chevrolet brand, classified as a pony car and some versions also as a muscle car. It went on sale on September 29, 1966, for the 1967 model year and was designed as a competing model to the Ford Mustang...
. This coincided with the release of the 1968
Mercury CougarThe Mercury Cougar is an automobile which was sold under the Mercury brand of the Ford Motor Company's Lincoln-Mercury Division from 1967 to 2002. The name was first used in 1967 and was carried by a diverse series of cars over the next three decades. As is common with Mercury vehicles, the Cougar...
, which shared its platform with another
pony carPony car is an American class of automobile launched and inspired by the Ford Mustang in 1964. The term describes an affordable, compact, highly styled car with a sporty or performance-oriented image.-Origins of the breed:...
, the
Ford MustangThe Ford Mustang is an automobile manufactured by the Ford Motor Company. It was initially based on the second generation North American Ford Falcon, a compact car. Introduced early on April 17, 1964, as a "1964½" model, the 1965 Mustang was the automaker's most successful launch since the Model A...
.
The vehicles were powered by various four-cylinder, six-cylinder, and
V8 engineA V8 engine is a V engine with eight cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of four cylinders, in most cases set at a right angle to each other but sometimes at a narrower angle, with all eight pistons driving a common crankshaft....
s sourced from several GM divisions. While primarily Pontiac-powered until 1977, Firebirds were built with several different engines from nearly every GM division until 1982 when GM began to discontinue engines it felt were unneeded and either spread successful designs from individual divisions among all divisions or use new engines of corporate architecture.
First generation (1967–1969)
The first generation Firebirds had a characteristic
Coke bottle stylingCoke bottle styling is a term used to describe any automotive body styling bearing an overall body shape resembling the classic glass Coca-Cola soft drink's contour bottle design. It is a style of automobile bodies with outward curving fenders with a narrow center. In contrast to "straight-edge"...
. Unlike its cousin, the Chevrolet Camaro, its bumpers were integrated into the design of the front end and its rear "slit" taillights were inspired by the
Pontiac GTOThe Pontiac GTO is an automobile built by Pontiac Division of General Motors in the United States from 1964 to 1974, and by GM subsidiary Holden in Australia from 2004 to 2006. It is considered an innovative, and now classic muscle car of the 1960s and 1970s...
. Both a two-door
hardtopA hardtop is a term for a rigid, rather than canvas, automobile roof. It has been used in several contexts: detachable hardtops, retractable hardtop roofs, and the so-called pillarless hardtop body style....
and a
convertibleA convertible is a type of automobile in which the roof can retract and fold away having windows which wind-down inside the doors, converting it from an enclosed to an open-air vehicle...
were offered through the 1969 model year. Originally the car was a "consolation prize" for Pontiac, who had initially wished to produce a two-seat sports car of its own design, based on the original
BansheeThe Pontiac Banshee is a line of concept cars designed by General Motors. Four of these "dream cars" were fabricated as design exercises beginning in 1964...
concept car. However, GM feared such a vehicle would directly compete with Chevrolet's
CorvetteThe Chevrolet Corvette is a sports car by the Chevrolet division of General Motors that has been produced in six generations. The first model, a convertible, was designed by Harley Earl and introduced at the GM Motorama in 1953 as a concept show car. Myron Scott is credited for naming the car after...
, and the decision was made to give Pontiac a piece of the pony car market by having them share the
F-bodyThe F platform, or F-body, was General Motors' small rear-wheel drive automobile platform from 1967 until 2002. It was based partially on the GM X platform, which was used for compact applications instead of the sporting intent of the F-Body. The only two vehicles to have been built using the...
platform with
ChevroletChevrolet , also known as Chevy , is a brand of vehicle produced by General Motors Company . Founded by Louis Chevrolet and ousted GM founder William C. Durant on November 3, 1911, General Motors acquired Chevrolet in 1918...
.
The base model Firebird came equipped with the OHC inline-6 and a single-barrel
carburetorA carburetor , carburettor, or carburetter is a device that blends air and fuel for an internal combustion engine. It is sometimes shortened to carb in North America and the United Kingdom....
. The next model, the Sprint, had a four-barrel carburetor, developing 215 hp (160 kW). Most buyers opted for one of the V8 engines: the 326 CID (5.3 L) with a two-barrel carburetor producing 250 hp (186 kW); the "H.O." (High Output) engine of the same displacement, but with a four-barrel carburetor and producing 285 hp (213 kW); or the 400 CID (6.6 L) from the GTO with 325 hp (242 kW). A "Ram Air" option was also available in 1968, providing functional hood scoops, higher flow heads with stronger valve springs, and a different
camshaftA camshaft is a shaft to which a cam is fastened or of which a cam forms an integral part.-History:An early cam was built into Hellenistic water-driven automata from the 3rd century BC. The camshaft was later described in Iraq by Al-Jazari in 1206. He employed it as part of his automata,...
. Power for the Ram Air package was the same as the conventional 400 H.O., but the engine peaked at a higher RPM. The 230 CID (3.8 L) engines were subsequently replaced by 250 CID (4.1 L) ones, the first developing 175 hp (130 kW) using a single-barrel carburetor, and the other 215 hp (160 kW) with a four-barrel carburetor. Also for the 1968 model, the 326 CID (5.3 L) engine was replaced by one with a displacement of 350 CID (5.7 L). An "H.O." version of the 350 CID with a revised cam was also offered starting in that year, developed 320 hp. Power output of the other engines was increased marginally.
In 1969, a $725 optional handling package called the "Trans Am Performance and Appearance Package,", named after the Trans Am Series, which included a rear
spoilerA spoiler is an automotive aerodynamic device whose intended design function is to 'spoil' unfavorable air movement across a body of a vehicle in motion. Spoilers on the front of a vehicle are often called air dams, because in addition to directing air flow they also reduce the amount of air...
, was introduced. Of these first "Trans Ams," only 689 hardtops and eight convertibles were made. There was an additional Ram Air IV option for the 400 CID engine during that year, complementing the Ram Air III; these generated 345 and 335 hp respectively. The 350 "H.O." engine was revised again with a different cam and cylinder heads resulting in 330 hp. During 1969 a special 303 cu in (5 l) engine was designed for
SCCAThe Sports Car Club of America is a club and sanctioning body supporting road racing, rallying, and autocross in the United States. Formed in 1944, it runs many programs for both amateur and professional racers.-History:...
road racing applications that was not available in production cars.
The styling difference from the 1967 to the 1968 model was the addition of Federally mandated side marker lights: for the front of the car, the blinkers were made larger and extended to wrap around the front edges of the car, and on the rear, the Pontiac (V-shaped) Arrowhead logo was added to each side. The front door
vent-windowsQuarter glass on automobiles and closed carriages may be a side window in the front door or located on each side of the car just forward of the rear window of the vehicle. Only some cars have them. In some cases the fixed quarter glass may set in the corner or "C-pillar" of the vehicle...
were replaced with a single pane of glass. The 1969 model received a major facelift with a new front end design made of an Endura bumper housing the headlights and grilles. The instrument panel and steering wheel were revised. The ignition switch was moved from the dashboard to the steering column with the introduction of GM's new locking ignition switch/steering wheel.
Due to engineering problems that delayed the introduction of the all-new 1970 Firebird beyond the usual fall debut, Pontiac continued production of 1969 model Firebirds into the early months of the 1970 model year (the other 1970 Pontiac models had been introduced on September 18, 1969). By late spring of 1969, Pontiac had deleted all model-year references on Firebird literature and promotional materials, anticipating the extended production run of the then-current 1969 models.
Engines
| 1967 |
230 CID Pontiac OHC I6 |
326 CID Pontiac V8 |
326 CID Pontiac H.O. V8 |
400 CID Pontiac V8 |
400 CID Pontiac Ram Air V8 |
| 1968 |
250 CID Pontiac OHC I6 |
350 CID Pontiac V8 |
350 CIDPontiac H.O. V8 |
400 CID Pontiac V8 |
400 CID Pontiac H.O. V8 |
400 CID Pontiac Ram Air II V8 (mid-year release) |
| 1969 |
250 CID Pontiac OHC I6 |
350 CID Pontiac V8 |
350 CID Pontiac H.O. V8 |
400 CID Pontiac V8 |
400 CID Pontiac H.O. Ram Air III V8 |
400 CID Pontiac Ram Air IV V8 |
Second generation (1970–1981)
The second generation debut for the 1970 model year was delayed until February 26, 1970, because of tooling and engineering problems; thus, its popular designation as a 1970½ model, while leftover 1969s were listed in early Pontiac literature without a model-year identification.
Trims
- Firebird
- Firebird Esprit
- Firebird Formula
- Firebird Trans-Am
- Firebird Trans-Am WS6
- Firebird Skybird
- Firebird Redbird
- Firebird Yellowbird
Special versions
- Special Edition (popular 'Bandit')
- Gold Special Edition
- Macho Trans-Am (made by one of the Pontiac dealers)
- 1976 50th (Pontiac) Anniversary Edition
- 1979 10th (Trans Am) Anniversary Edition
- 1980 Pace Car Indy 500 Edition (turbo Trans Am)
- 1981 NASCAR Edition (turbo Trans Am).
Replacing the "Coke bottle" styling was a more "swoopy" body style, with the top of the rear window line going almost straight down to the lip of the trunk lid—a look that was to epitomize F-body styling for the longest period during the Firebird's lifetime. The new design was initially characterized with a large
C-pillarPillars are the vertical supports of the greenhouse of an automobile — known respectively as the A, B, C or D-pillar moving in profile view from the front to rear....
, until 1975 when the rear window was enlarged.
There were two Ram Air 400 CID engines for 1970: the 335 hp Ram Air III (366 hp in GTO) and the 345 hp Ram Air IV (370 hp in GTO) that were carried over from 1969. The difference between the GTO and Firebird engines was the secondary carburetor linkage which prevented the rear barrels from opening. Bending the linkage to allow full carburator operation resulted in identical engines.
A distinctive, slant-nose facelift occurred in 1977, redone somewhat in 1979. From 1977 to 1981, the Firebird used four square headlamps, while the Camaro continued to retain the two round headlights that had previously been shared by both Second Generation designs. Curb weights rose dramatically in the 1973 model year due to the implementation of 5 mi/h telescoping bumpers and various other crash and safety related structural enhancements; SD455 Trans Ams weighed in at 3850 lb (1,746.3 kg).
The 455 engine available in the second generation Firebird Trans Am was arguably the last high-performance engine of the original
muscle carMuscle car is a term used to refer to a variety of high-performance automobiles. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines muscle cars as "any of a group of American-made 2-door sports coupes with powerful engines designed for high-performance driving." Usually, a large V8 engine is fitted in a...
generation. The 455 CID engine first made its appearance in 1971 as the 455-HO. In 1973 and 1974, a special version of the 455, called the SD-455, was offered. The SD-455 consisted of a strengthened cylinder block that included 4-bolt main bearings and added material in various locations for improved strength. Original plans called for a forged
crankshaftThe crankshaft, sometimes casually abbreviated to crank, is the part of an engine which translates reciprocating linear piston motion into rotation...
, although actual production SD455s received nodular iron crankshafts with minor enhancements. Forged rods and forged aluminum
pistonA piston is a component of reciprocating engines, reciprocating pumps, gas compressors and pneumatic cylinders, among other similar mechanisms. It is the moving component that is contained by a cylinder and is made gas-tight by piston rings. In an engine, its purpose is to transfer force from...
s were specified, as were unique high-flow cylinder heads. A 1967 GTO Ram Air camshaft with 301/313 degrees of advertised duration, 0.407 inch net valve lift, and 76 degrees of valve overlap was specified for actual production engines in lieu of the significantly more aggressive Ram Air IV style cam that had originally been planned for the engine (initially rated at 310 hp with that cam), but proved incapable of meeting the tightening emissions standards of the era. This cam, combined with a low compression ratio of 8.4 (advertised) and 7.9:1 actual resulted in 290 SAE net horsepower. Production test cars yielded 1/4 mile times in the 14.5 second/98 MPH range in showroom tune – results consistent for a car with a curb weight of 3,850 pounds and the rated 290 SAE net horsepower figure some sources suggest was "under-rated,"
High Performance Pontiac magazine
dynoA dynamometer or "dyno" for short, is a device for measuring force, moment of force , or power. For example, the power produced by an engine, motor or other rotating prime mover can be calculated by simultaneously measuring torque and rotational speed .A dynamometer can also be used to determine...
-tested an SD and gave it 371 SAE net rating. During a 1972 strike, the Firebird (and the sister
F-bodyThe F platform, or F-body, was General Motors' small rear-wheel drive automobile platform from 1967 until 2002. It was based partially on the GM X platform, which was used for compact applications instead of the sporting intent of the F-Body. The only two vehicles to have been built using the...
CamaroThe Chevrolet Camaro is an automobile manufactured by General Motors under the Chevrolet brand, classified as a pony car and some versions also as a muscle car. It went on sale on September 29, 1966, for the 1967 model year and was designed as a competing model to the Ford Mustang...
) were nearly dropped. Pontiac offered the 455 for a few more years, but tightening restrictions on vehicle emissions guaranteed its demise. Thus, the 1976 Trans Am was the last of the "Big Cube Birds," with only 7,100 units produced with the 455 engine.
The 1974 models featured a redesigned "shovel-nose" front end and new wide "slotted" taillights. In 1974, Pontiac offered two base engines for the Firebird: a 100 hp 250 CID inline-6 and a 155 hp 350 CID V8. Available were 175 hp to 225 hp 400 CID V8 engines, as well as the 455 CID produced 215 hp or 250 hp, while the SD-455 produced 290 hp. The 400, 455, and SD-455 engines were offered in the Trans Am and Formula models during 1974
The 1975 models featured a new wraparound rear window with a revised roofline. The Super Duty engines, Muncie 4-speed, and TurboHydramatic were no longer available in 1975. The 400 and 455 engines were optional above the base six and V8 in the 1975 and 1976 models.
In 1976, Pontiac celebrated their 50th Anniversary, and a special edition of the Trans Am was released. Painted in black with gold accents, this was the first anniversary Trans Am package and the first production Black and Gold special edition. In 1977, Pontiac offered the T/A 6.6 Litre 400 (
RPOA Regular Production Option is a General Motors standard coding for vehicle configuration options. These codes are a combination of 3 alphanumeric characters and refer to a specific option or modification to the vehicle...
W72) rated at 200 hp, as opposed to the regular 6.6 Litre 400 (RPO L78) rated at 180 hp. In addition, California and high-altitude cars received the Olds 403 engine, which offered a slightly higher compression ratio and a more usable torque band than the Pontiac engines of 1977.
The 1977 Trans-Am Special Edition became famous after being featured in
Smokey and the BanditSmokey and the Bandit is a 1977 American film starring Burt Reynolds, Sally Field, Jackie Gleason, Jerry Reed, Pat McCormick, Paul Williams, and Mike Henry. It inspired several other trucking films, including two sequels, Smokey and the Bandit II, and Smokey and the Bandit Part 3...
. Later on the 1980 Turbo model was used for
Smokey and the Bandit IISmokey and the Bandit II is a comedy film released on August 15, 1980 in the United States. It is the sequel to the 1977 film Smokey and the Bandit. The film stars Burt Reynolds, Sally Field, Jerry Reed, Jackie Gleason, and Dom DeLuise...
.
Beginning in 1978, Pontiac engineers reversed years of declining power by raising the compression ratio in the Pontiac 400 through the installation of different cylinder heads with smaller combustion chambers (1977 Pontiac 400 engines also had the 350 heads bolted to the 400 blocks, these heads were known as the 6x-4 heads)(taken from the Pontiac 350). This increased power by 10% for a total of 220 during the 1978–79 model years. The 400/403 options remained available until 1979, when the 400 CID engines were only available in the 4-speed transmission Trans Ams and Formulas (the engines had actually been stockpiled from 1978, when PMD had cut production of the engine). 1979 marked the 10th Anniversary of the Trans Am, and a special anniversary package was made available: silver paint with a silver leather interior. The 10th Anniversary cars also featured a special Firebird hood decal, which extended off of the hood and onto the front fenders. In 1979 Pontiac sold 116,535 Trans Ams which still holds the record to this day.
Up until the 1979 models, the performance of 400-equipped Firebirds could still be brought up to pre-1970 levels by disabling emissions equipment- removing the catalytic converter and blocking off the exhaust gas recirculation system- and opening up the block off plate to make the hood scoop functional. However, in 1980, due to ever-increasing emissions restrictions, Pontiac dropped all of its large displacement engines.
1980 therefore saw the biggest engine changes for the Trans Am. The 301, offered in 1979 as a credit option, was now the standard engine. Options included a
turbochargedA turbocharger, or turbo , from the Greek "τύρβη" is a centrifugal compressor powered by a turbine that is driven by an engine's exhaust gases. Its benefit lies with the compressor increasing the mass of air entering the engine , thereby resulting in greater performance...
301 or the Chevrolet 305 small block.
In the final year of the Second Generation Firebirds (1981), Trans Am still used the same engines as it had in the previous model year, with the only change being the addition of a new electronic carburetion system.
Engines
| 1970 |
250 CID I6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
|
350 CID Pontiac V8 |
400 CID Pontiac V8 |
400 CID Pontiac Ram Air III V8 |
400 CID Pontiac Ram Air IV V8 |
| 1971 |
250 CID I6 |
350 CID Pontiac V8 |
400 CID Pontiac V8 |
455 CID Pontiac V8 |
455 CID Pontiac H.O. V8 (low compression) |
| 1972 |
250 CID I6 |
350 CID Pontiac V8 |
400 CID Pontiac V8 |
455 CID Pontiac V8 |
455 CID H.O. (low compression) |
| 1973 |
250 CID I6 |
350 CID Pontiac V8 |
455 CID Pontiac V8 |
455 CID Pontiac H.O. V8 |
455 CID S.D. V8 |
| 1974 |
250 CID I6 |
350 CID Pontiac V8 |
400 CID Pontiac V8 |
455 CID Pontiac V8 |
455 CID Pontiac H.O. V8 |
455 CID Pontiac S.D. V8 |
| 1975 |
250 CID I6 |
350 CID Pontiac V8 |
400 CID Pontiac V8 |
455 CID Pontiac V8 |
| 1976 |
250 CID I6 |
350 CID Pontiac V8 |
400 CID Pontiac V8 |
455 CID Pontiac V8 |
| 1977 |
231 CID V6A V6 engine is a V engine with six cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of three cylinders, usually set at either a right angle or an acute angle to each other, with all six pistons driving a common crankshaft...
|
301 CID Pontiac V8 |
305 CID Chevrolet V8 |
350 CID Pontiac V8 |
400 CID Pontiac V8 |
403 CID Oldsmobile V8 |
| 1978 |
231 CID V6 |
301 CID Pontiac V8 |
305 CID Chevrolet V8 |
350 CID Pontiac V8 |
400 CID Pontiac V8 |
403 CID Oldsmobile V8 |
| 1979 |
231 CID V6 |
301 CID Pontiac V8 |
305 CID Chevrolet V8 |
350 CID Pontiac V8 |
400 CID Pontiac V8 |
403 CID Oldsmobile V8 |
| 1980 |
265 CID Pontiac V8 |
301 CID Pontiac V8 |
305 CID Chevrolet V8 (automatic only) |
301 CID Pontiac turbo V8 |
| 1981 |
265 CID Pontiac V8 |
301 CID Pontiac V8 |
305 CID Chevrolet V8 (4-speed only) |
301 CID Pontiac turbo V8 |
Third generation (1982–1992)
The availability and cost of gasoline (two fuel crises had occurred by this time) meant the weight and the fuel consumption of the 3rd generation had to be considered in the design. In F-body development, both the third generation Firebird and Camaro were proposed as possible front wheel drive platforms, but the idea was scrapped. The state of the art of computerized engine management was in its infancy, and as long as saving fuel was the primary objective, it was not possible to have high horsepower and torque numbers. They did manage to cut enough weight from the design so that acceleration performance would be better than the 1981 models. They also succeeded in the fuel consumption department, offering a 4-cylinder Firebird that would provide 34 miles per gallon. GM executives decided that engineering effort would best be spent on aerodynamics and chassis development. They created a modern platform, so that when engine technology advanced, they would have a well-balanced package with acceleration, braking, handling, and aerodynamics. For the time being, they would have world class aerodynamics and handling, and excellent fuel economy. (Little did they know that by 1989 the fastest American car on the market would be a Firebird.)
The Firebird and Camaro were completely redesigned for the 1982 model year, with the windshield slope set at 62 degrees, (about 3 degrees steeper than anything GM had ever tried before), and for the first time, a large, glass-dominated hatchback that required no metal structure to support it. Two concealed pop-up headlights, a first on the F-Body cars, were the primary characteristic that distinguished the 3rd Gen Firebird from its both its Camaro sibling and its prior form; (a styling characteristic carried into the 4th Gen's design). In addition to being about 500 lbs (227 kg) lighter than the previous 2nd Gen design, the 3rd Generation Firebird was the most aerodynamic product GM had ever released. Wind tunnels were used to form the new F-Body platform's shape, and Pontiac took full advantage of it. The aerodynamic developments extended to the finned aluminum wheels with smooth hubcaps and a functional rear spoiler.
Styles
Firebird-(I4/V6/V8)-Series 2FS (1982-86)
Firebird-(V6/V8)-Series 2FS (1987)
Firebird-Series 2F-(V6/V8) (1988)
Firebird Special Edition (S/E)-(V6/V8)-Series 2FX (1982-86)
Formula Firebird-(V6/V8)-Series 2FS (1987)
Formula Firebird-Series F/S-(V8) (1988)
Firebird Trans Am-(V8)-Series 2FW (1982-87)
Firebird Trans Am-Series F/W-(V8) (1988)
Firebird Recaro Trans Am-(V8)-Series 2FW/Y84 (1982-84)
Firebird Trans Am GTA-(V8)-Series 2FW (1987)
Firebird Trans Am GTA-Series F/W-(V8) (1988)
Firebird 25th Anniversary Daytona 500 Limited Edition Trans Am-(V8)-Series 2FW (1983)
Firebird 15th Anniversary Trans Am-(V8)-Series 2FW (1984)
Engines
Pontiac I4 [RPO LQ9] (1982-86): Overhead valves. Cast-iron block. Displacement: 151 cid (2.5 L). Bore & stroke: 4.0 x 3.0 in. Compression ratio: (8.2:1: 1982-83), (9.0:1: 1984-86). Brake horsepower: (90: 1982), (90-94: 1983) @ 4000 rpm, (92 @ 4000-4400 rpm: 1984), (88 @ 4400 rpm: 1985-86). Torque: (134: 1982), (132-135: 1983) ft/lbs @ 2400 rpm, (132-134 ft/lbs @ 2800 rpm: 1984-86). Hydraulic valve lifters. Induction: Throttle-body fuel-injected. VIN Code: (2: 1982, 84-86), (R: 1983). (Standard in base Firebird and available only in base Firebird: 1986).
Chevrolet EFI V6 [RPO LB8] (1985-88): Overhead valves. Cast-iron block. Displacement: 173 cid (2.8L: 1988). Bore & stroke: 3.5 x (3.0: 1985-87), (2.99: 1988) in. Compression ratio: (8.5:1: 1985, 88), (8.9:1: 1986-87). Brake horsepower: 135 @ (5100: 1985-87), (4900: 1988) rpm. Torque: (160-165 ft/lbs @ 3600 rpm: 1985-87), (160 ft/lbs @ 3900 rpm: 1988). (Hydraulic valve lifters: 1985-87). Fuel system: (Electronic fuel injection: 1986), (Electronic multi port fuel injection: 1987), (EFI/TBI: 1988). VIN Code: (H: 1985), (S: 1986-88). (Standard in Firebird S/E. Optional in base Firebird. Not available in Trans Am: 1986), (Standard with 5-speed manual transmission in base Firebird. Available with 4-speed automatic transmission in base Firebird: 1987), (Standard in base Firebird. Produced in U.S., Canada, or Mexico: 1988).
Chevrolet V6 [RPO LC1] (1982-84): Overhead valves. Cast-iron block. Displacement: 173 cid. Bore & stroke: 3.5 x 3.0 in. Compression ratio: 8.5:1. Brake horsepower: (105: 1982), (107: 1983-84) @ 4800 rpm. Torque: (142 ft/lbs @ 2400 rpm: 1982), (145 ft/lbs @ 2100 rpm: 1983-84). Hydraulic valve lifters. Carburetion: 2-barrel (Rochester E2SE: 1983-84). VIN Code: (S: 1982), (X: 1983), (1: 1983-84).
Chevrolet H.O. V6 [RPO LL1] (1983-84): Overhead valves. Cast-iron block. Displacement: 173 cid. Bore & stroke: 3.5 x 3.0 in. Compression ratio: 8.9:1. Brake horsepower: 125 @ 5400 rpm. Torque: 145 ft/lbs @ 2400 rpm. Hydraulic valve lifters. Carburetion: 2-barrel Rochester E2SE. VIN Code: (Z: 1983), (L: 1984).
Chevrolet 305 V8 [RPO LG4]: Overhead valves. Cast-iron block. Displacement: 305 cid. Bore & stroke: 3.74 x 3.48 in. Compression ratio: (8.6:1: 1982-84), (9.5:1: 1985-87). Brake horsepower: (145: 1982), (150: 1983-84), (155: 1986) @ 4000 rpm, (160: 1985), (155: 1987) @ 4200 rpm. Torque: 240 ft/lbs @ (2000 rpm: 1982), (2400 rpm: 1983-84), (250 @ 2400 rpm: 1985), (235-245 ft/lbs @ 2000-2400 rpm: 1986-87). Hydraulic valve lifters. Carburetion: 4-barrel (Rochester E4ME: 1983-87). (EFI: 1983-84). VIN Code: H. (Standard in Trans Am. Optional in base Firebird and Firebird S/E: 1986), (Standard with 5-speed manual transmission in base Firebird V8, Formula and Trans Am: 1987).
Chevrolet H.O. 305 V8 [RPO L69] (Late 1983 - Early 86): Overhead valves. Cast-iron block. Displacement: 305 cid. Bore & stroke: 3.74 x 3.48 in. Compression ratio: 9.5:1. Brake horsepower: 190 @ 4800 rpm. Torque: 240 ft/lbs @ 3200 rpm. Hydraulic valve lifters. Carburetor: 4-barrel. VIN Code: G and was a Trans Am Only Option. Came Standard on the Y84 1984 Recaro Edition Trans Am SE and 1984 15th Anniversary T/A
Chevrolet V8 [RPO LB9] (1985-87) Overhead valves. Cast-iron block. Displacement: 305 cid. Bore & stroke: 3.74 x 3.48 in. Compression ratio: 9.5:1. Brake horsepower: (205: 1985-86), (165: 1987) @ 4400 rpm. Torque: (275 ft/lbs @ 3200 rpm: 1985-86), (235 ft/lbs @ 2000 rpm: 1987). Hydraulic valve lifters. Induction: (Electronic tuned port fuel injection: 1985-86), (Multi-port fuel injection: 1987). VIN Code: (F: 1985-86), (8: 1987). (Optional in Trans Am only: 1986), (Available with 5-speed manual transmission in Formula or Trans Am. Available as a delete option in the Trans Am GTA: 1987).
Chevrolet 305 V8 [RPO LU5] (1982-84): Overhead valves. Cast-iron block. Displacement: 305 cid. Bore & stroke: 3.74 x 3.48 in. Compression ratio: 9.5:1. Brake horsepower: (165: 1982), (175: 1983) @ 4200 rpm, (190 @ 4800 rpm: 1984). Torque: 240 ft/lbs @ (2400 rpm: 1982, 3200 rpm: 1984), (250 ft/lbs @ 2800 rpm: 1983). Hydraulic valve lifters. (Induction: Crossfire fuel injection (EFI): 1982-83). (Carburetion: 4-barrel: 1984). VIN Code: (7: 1982-83), (G: 1984).
Chevrolet 350 V8 [RPO L98] (1987): Overhead valves. Cast-iron block. Displacement: 350 cid. Bore & stroke: 4.00 x 3.48 in. Compression ratio: 9.5:1. Brake horsepower: 210 @ 4000 rpm. Torque: 315 ft/lbs @ 3200 rpm. Hydraulic valve lifters. Induction: Tuned port fuel injection. VIN Code: F. Includes roller valve lifters, a hardened steel camshaft, fast-burn combustion chambers, a remote-mounted coil, dual cooling fans, a low-profile air-induction system with aluminum plenum and individual tuned runners, an extruded dual fuel rail assembly with computer-controlled fuel injectors and a special low-restriction exhaust system. Limited-interimavailability as base engine in the Trans Am GTA; optional in Formula Firebird and regular Trans Am.
Fourth generation (1993–2002)
The fourth-generation F-body continued the aerodynamic formula initiated by the previous generation, but saw declining sales. As before, the Camaro kept the exposed headlights and the Firebird its pop-up units, with some minor changes. The overall styling of the Firebird more strongly reflected the "Banshee IV" concept car than the 1991 "face lift" received by the Third Generation model.
1993
From 1993 until 1995 (1995 non-California cars), Firebirds received a 3.4 L V6 with 160 hp, or the 5.7 L 275 hp LT1 V8. The 1993 Firehawk (only available in Formula trim for 1993–1997) received the SLP package with a functional hood scoop and other performance enhancements that increased power to 300 hp. Only 201 were built for 1993, with the same engine as in the 1993 Corvettes. The LT1 in the Formula and Trans Am was very similar to the one in the Corvette C4, except with 2-bolt mains and a more restrictive intake/exhaust system. The 1993 model year V6 models had angular cable driven throttle body units that later changed in 1994 to multi-port fuel injection.
1994
The 1994 model year marked the 25th anniversary of the Trans Am, and another Anniversary Edition was released, painted white with a single blue stripe down the center of the vehicle that was reminiscent of the 1970 Trans Am. It was also the debut of the 4L60e 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission in the F-body, which took the place of the non-electronic 700R4.
1995
The 1995 models were the same as those of previous years, but traction control (ASR: Acceleration Slip Regulation) was now available. The steering wheel was also changed. It was borrowed from the Grand Prix. An optional performance package included polyurethane bushings, suspension upgrades, as well as a freer intake/exhaust similar to that on the Chevrolet Corvette, supplying 315 hp, but this package was seldom ordered. The 'Transmission Perform' button was available only in the 1994 and 1995 Formula and Trans Am. This option was stopped for the 1996 and later models, but the connections are still there for 1996 and 1997 Formula and Trans Am.
The mid-1995 and later models had a 200 hp 3.8 L V6 as the base engine, and the power rating of the LT1 had been raised to 285, due to a new dual catalytic converter exhaust system that was optional in previous years.
1997
The 1997 Firehawk LT4 model, made by SLP Performance Parts and sold through Pontiac dealerships, had 330 hp (243 kW) and 340 ft·lbf (459 Nm) of torque.
1998
In 1998, the Firebird received a "face lift" dominated by a new front fascia (now with four pop-up headlights) as well as other modifications, the most significant of which was the introduction of the latest Corvette small block V8 engine, the LS1. Initially, the color "Bright Purple Metallic" had been available, however it was discontinued due to poor sales. The color was replaced with "Navy Blue Metallic," but not before a total of 12 Trans Am models with the WS6 Ram Air package (10 coupés and two convertibles) made it out of the factory dressed in "Bright Purple Metallic."
http://www.phs-online.com/
1999
The Big 3-0 A new 30th Anniversary Limited Edition Trans Am added a little distinction to the 1999 Firebird offerings. Otherwise, there were only minor changes. Formulas and Trans Ams now had a four-speed automatic transmission as standard equipment. Buyers could choose from it or a six-speed manual, which had a Hurst shifter. Traction control was available on V-6 Firebirds. Specific V-6 Firebirds also got a Torsen II slip-reduction rear axle as standard equipment. An Electronic Brake Force Distribution system and solenoid-based Bosch anti-lock brake system enhanced stopping capabilities. Also new was an upgraded sensing and diagnostic module to improve the passenger-protection system.
COLORS 10=Artic White, 11=Pewter Metallic, 13=Silver Metallic, 20=Medium Blue Metallic, 28=Navy Blue Metallic, 31=Bright Green Metallic, 41=Black, 79=Blue-Green Chameleon and 81=Bright Red.
Firebird – Series F/S – V6 The availability of GM's Traction Control system was extended to the V-6-powered Firebirds this year. All Firebirds with V-8 and some with a V-6 had a Zexel Torsen II slip-reduction rear axle. An Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) system replaced the old hydraulic proportioning valve for improved brake performance. Also new was a solenoid-based Bosch antilock braking system. An enhanced Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) recorded vehicle speed, engine rpm, throttle position and brake use in the last five seconds prior to airbag deployment. Standard equipment for the Firebird coupe included extensive acoustical insulation, dual front airbags, air conditioning, a black fixed-mast antenna at right rear, a brake/transmission shift interlock safety feature (with automatic transmission), power four-wheel disc brakes with four-wheel ABS, the UPC L36 3800 Series II 200 hp SFI V-6 engine, cruise control, electric rear- and side-window defoggers, Solar-Ray tinted glass, instrumentation (including electric analog speedometer, tachometer, odometer, coolant temperature indicator, oil pressure gauge, voltmeter and LED trip odometer), sport exterior mirrors (left-hand remote controlled, right-hand manual), a day/night inside rearview mirror with reading lamps, left- and right-hand covered visor-vanity mirrors, a Delco AM/FM stereo ETR radio and cassette (with seven-band graphic equalizer, touch control, search-and-replay, Delco TheftLock, clock, seek up/down, remote CD pre-wiring and four-speaker coaxial sound system), reclining front bucket seats, four-way driver and passenger front seat manual adjusters, a rear two-passenger folding seat, a four-spoke sport tilt steering wheel with adjustable column, the PASS-Key II theft-deterrent system, P215/60R16 touring tires with a high-pressure compact spare, the UPC MM5 five-speed manual transmission, controlled-cycle windshield wipers and bright silver 16-in. five-spoke cast-aluminum wheels.
Model Number: F/S; Body/Style Number: 87, 67; Body Type & Seating: 2d hatchback, convertible-4P; Factory Price: $18,700, $25,320; Shipping Weight: 3,340, 3,465 lbs.; Production Total: 17,170, 1,245.
1998–2002
For 1998–2002 Pontiac used the same heavy duty brakes, steering ratios, fuel pumps and shocks (non-WS6) on both V6 and V8 models.
The all-aluminum 5.7 L V8 engine was sourced from the
Corvette C5The Chevrolet Corvette is a sports car produced by the Chevrolet division of General Motors for the 1997 through 2004 model years.- Overview :...
, and produced 305 hp at 5,200 rpm; 335 ft.lbf at 4,000 rpm, (310 after 2000) or 320 hp (325 after 2000) in the WS-6 "Ram Air" version. In 2001 and 2002, models equipped with a V8 received the high-flow LS6 intake manifold and a high-performance clutch. A Firehawk model, produced by SLP and sold through Pontiac dealerships, had 330 hp (335 after 2000, 345 in late 2002 models equipped with the optional Blackwing intake. The V6-equipped Firebirds were rated at 205 hp.
Engines
| 1993 |
3.4 litre L32 V6 |
5.7 litre LT1 V8 (iron block, aluminum heads) |
| 1994 |
3.4 litre L32 V6 |
5.7 litre LT1 V8 (iron block, aluminum heads) |
| 1995 |
3.4 litre L32 V6 |
3.8 litre L36 V6 |
5.7 litre LT1 V8 (iron block, aluminum heads) |
| 1996 |
3.8 litre L36 V6 |
5.7 litre LT1 V8 (iron block, aluminum heads) |
| 1997 |
3.8 litre L36 V6 |
5.7 litre LT1 V8 (iron block, aluminum heads) |
5.7 litre LT4 V8 (iron block, aluminum heads) in Firehawk by SLP |
| 1998 |
3.8 litre L36 V6 |
5.7 litre LS1 V8The GM LS engine family is an engine design intended as the only V-8 engine used in General Motors' line of rear-wheel-drive cars and trucks. The LS series was a "clean sheet" design with little in common with the classic Chevrolet small block V8...
(aluminum block and heads) |
| 1999 |
3.8 litre L36 V6 |
5.7 litre LS1 V8 (aluminum block and heads) |
| 2000 |
3.8 litre L36 V6 |
5.7 litre LS1 V8 (aluminum block and heads) |
| 2001 |
3.8 litre L36 V6 |
5.7 litre LS1 V8 (aluminum block and heads) |
| 2002 |
3.8 litre L36 V6 |
5.7 litre LS1 V8 (aluminum block and heads) |
Firebird Trans Am
The Trans Am was a specialty package for the Firebird, typically upgrading
handlingAutomobile handling and vehicle handling are descriptions of the way wheeled vehicles perform transverse to their direction of motion, particularly during cornering and swerving. It also includes their stability when moving at rest. Handling and braking are the major components of a vehicle's...
,
suspensionSuspension is the term given to the system of springs, shock absorbers and linkages that connects a vehicle to its wheels. Suspension systems serve a dual purpose — contributing to the car's roadholding/handling and braking for good active safety and driving pleasure, and keeping vehicle occupants...
, and
horsepowerHorsepower is the name of several units of measurement of power. The most common definitions equal between 735.5 and 750 watts.Horsepower was originally defined to compare the output of steam engines with the power of draft horses in continuous operation. The unit was widely adopted to measure the...
, as well as minor appearance modifications such as exclusive
hoodsThe hood or bonnet is the hinged cover over the engine of motor vehicles that allows access to the engine compartment for maintenance and repair. In British terminology, hood refers to a fabric cover over the passenger compartment of the car...
,
spoilersA spoiler is an automotive aerodynamic device whose intended design function is to 'spoil' unfavorable air movement across a body of a vehicle in motion. Spoilers on the front of a vehicle are often called air dams, because in addition to directing air flow they also reduce the amount of air...
, fog lights and wheels. In using the name Trans Am, a registered trademark, GM agreed to pay $5 per car sold to the SCCA. Four distinct generations were produced between 1969 and 2002. These cars were built on the
F-body platformThe F platform, or F-body, was General Motors' small rear-wheel drive automobile platform from 1967 until 2002. It was based partially on the GM X platform, which was used for compact applications instead of the sporting intent of the F-Body. The only two vehicles to have been built using the...
, which was also shared by the
Chevrolet CamaroThe Chevrolet Camaro is an automobile manufactured by General Motors under the Chevrolet brand, classified as a pony car and some versions also as a muscle car. It went on sale on September 29, 1966, for the 1967 model year and was designed as a competing model to the Ford Mustang...
.
The second generation was available from 1970 to 1981 and was featured in the 1977 movie
Smokey and the BanditSmokey and the Bandit is a 1977 American film starring Burt Reynolds, Sally Field, Jackie Gleason, Jerry Reed, Pat McCormick, Paul Williams, and Mike Henry. It inspired several other trucking films, including two sequels, Smokey and the Bandit II, and Smokey and the Bandit Part 3...
, the 1978 movie
HooperHooper is a 1978 action-comedy motion picture starring Burt Reynolds, based loosely on the experiences of director Hal Needham, a one-time stuntman in his own right...
and the 1980 movie
Smokey and the Bandit IISmokey and the Bandit II is a comedy film released on August 15, 1980 in the United States. It is the sequel to the 1977 film Smokey and the Bandit. The film stars Burt Reynolds, Sally Field, Jerry Reed, Jackie Gleason, and Dom DeLuise...
. The third generation, available from 1982 to 1992, was featured in the 1983 movie
Smokey and the Bandit Part 3Smokey and the Bandit Part 3 is the sequel to Smokey and the Bandit and Smokey and the Bandit II starring Jackie Gleason, Jerry Reed, Paul Williams, Pat McCormick, Mike Henry and Colleen Camp...
and the 1984 movie
Alphabet CityAlphabet City is a 1984 crime drama film directed by Amos Poe. The story follows a young gangster of Italian descent named Johnny, who has been given control over his own neighborhood by the Mob. Then unknown actors Vincent Spano , Jami Gertz, and Michael Winslow give compelling performances in...
.
KITTKITT is the short name of two fictional characters from the adventure TV series Knight Rider. While having the same acronym, the KITTs are two different entities: one known as the Knight Industries Two Thousand, which appeared in the original TV series Knight Rider, and the other as the Knight...
, the automotive star, and its evil counterpart
KARRKARR is the name of a fictional, automated, prototype vehicle featured as a major antagonist in two episodes of the television series Knight Rider and was part of a multi-episode story arc in the 2008 revived series....
, of the popular 1980s TV series
Knight Rider, was a modified third generation Trans Am. The fourth generation Trans Am, available from model years 1993 to 2002, offered between 275 bhp and 325 bhp.
First generation
| 1969 |
400 CID Pontiac Ram Air III V8 366 bhp |
400 CID Pontiac Ram Air IV V8 370 bhp |
400 CID Pontiac Ram Air V V8 (rare dealer-installed option) 500 bhp |
Second generation
| 1970 |
400 CID Pontiac Ram Air III V8 |
400 CID Pontiac Ram Air IV V8 |
400 CID Pontiac Ram Air V V8 (rare dealer-installed option) |
| 1971 |
455 CID Pontiac H.O. V8 |
| 1972 |
455 CID Pontiac H.O. V8 |
| 1973 |
455 CID Pontiac V8 |
455 CID Pontiac S.D. V8 |
| 1974 |
400 CID Pontiac V8 |
455 CID Pontiac V8 |
455 CID Pontiac S.D. V8 |
| 1975 |
400 CID Pontiac V8 |
455 CID Pontiac V8 |
| 1976 |
400 CID Pontiac V8 |
455 CID Pontiac V8 |
| 1977 |
403 CID Oldsmobile V8 |
400 CID Pontiac W72 V8 |
| 1978 |
403 CID Oldsmobile V8 |
400 CID Pontiac W72 V8 |
| 1979 |
301 CID Pontiac V8 |
403 CID Oldsmobile V8 |
400 CID Pontiac W72 V8 |
| 1980 |
301 CID Pontiac V8 |
305 CID Chevrolet V8 (4-speed only) |
301 CID Pontiac turbo V8 |
| 1981 |
301 CID Pontiac V8 |
305 CID Chevrolet V8 (4-speed only) |
301 CID Pontiac turbo V8 |
Third generation
From 1982 on all engines are Chevrolet sourced, unless stated otherwise.
| 1982 |
305 CID 4 barrel V8 |
305 CID Cross-Fire Injection V8 (First year for fuel injection in Trans Am) |
| 1983 |
305 CID 4 barrel V8 |
305 CID Cross-Fire Injection V8 |
305 CID 4 barrel V8 H.O. (662 were made, all 5-speeds) |
| 1984 |
305 CID 4 barrel V8 |
305 CID 4 barrel H.O. V8 (1500 anniversary edition models were made, 500 of them 5-speed) |
| 1985 |
305 CID 4 barrel V8 |
305 CID Tuned Port Injection V8 |
305 CID 4 barrel H.O. V8 H.O. (5-speed only) |
| 1986 |
305 CID 4 barrel V8 |
305 CID Tuned Port Injection V8 |
305 CID 4 barrel V8 (5-speed only) |
| 1987 |
305 CID 4 barrel V8 |
305 CID Tuned Port Injection V8 |
350 CID Tuned Port Injection V8 |
| 1988 |
305 CID Throttle Body Injection V8 |
305 CID Tuned Port Injection V8 |
350 CID Tuned Port Injection V8 |
| 1989 |
305 CID Throttle Body Injection V8 |
305 CID Tuned Port Injection V8 |
350 CID Tuned Port Injection V8 |
231 CID Buick Turbo V6 |
| 1990 |
305 CID Tuned Port Injection V8 |
350 CID Tuned Port Injection V8 |
| 1991 |
305 CID Tuned Port Injection V8 |
350 CID Tuned Port Injection V8 |
| 1992 |
305 CID Tuned Port Injection V8 |
350 CID Tuned Port Injection V8 |
Fourth generation
| 1993 |
5.7 litre LT1 V8 |
| 1994 |
| 1995 |
| 1996 |
| 1997 |
| 1998 |
5.7 litre LS1 V8The GM LS engine family is an engine design intended as the only V-8 engine used in General Motors' line of rear-wheel-drive cars and trucks. The LS series was a "clean sheet" design with little in common with the classic Chevrolet small block V8...
|
| 1999 |
| 2000 |
| 2001 |
| 2002 |
Performance (Firebird / Firebird Trans Am)
| Engine |
Year(s) |
Power |
0–60 mph |
Top Speed |
Comments |
| 400 CID Pontiac W72 V8 |
1979 |
200 bhp |
6.7 s. |
|
Trans Am model equipped with 400 4-speed manual |
| 305 CID LB9 V8 |
1989–1992 |
225 bhp |
< 6.6 s. |
> 140 mph (62.6 m/s) |
Formula model equipped with N10/MM5/GM3 option codes |
| 231 CID Buick Turbo V6 |
1989 |
250 bhp |
4.6 s. |
162 mph (72.4 m/s) |
20th Anniversary Trans Am Pace Car |
| 5.7 litre LT1 V8 |
1993–1997 |
275 bhp-285 bhp |
5.4 s. |
155 mph (69.3 m/s) (electronically limited) |
| 1996–1997 |
305 bhp |
5.0 s. |
155 mph (69.3 m/s) (electronically limited) |
Ram Air |
5.7 litre LS1 V8The GM LS engine family is an engine design intended as the only V-8 engine used in General Motors' line of rear-wheel-drive cars and trucks. The LS series was a "clean sheet" design with little in common with the classic Chevrolet small block V8...
|
1998–2000 |
305 bhp (Trans Am), 320 bhp WS.6 |
4.9 s. |
160 mph (71.5 m/s) (electronically limited) |
| 2001–2002 |
305 bhp (Trans Am), 325 bhp WS.6 |
4.7 s. |
160 mph (71.5 m/s) (electronically limited) |
Racing
Firebirds were used in the
Trans-Am seriesThe Trans-Am Series is an automobile racing series which was created in 1966 by Sports Car Club of America President John Bishop. Originally known as the Trans-American Sedan Championship it has evolved over time from its original format as a manufacturers championship for modified racing sedans...
in the 1960s and 1970s. When the Pontiac Trans Am came out, there was controversy over the model's inability to compete in the Trans-Am because the smallest available engine was too large for use in the series at 400 cubic inches (6.6 liters). The name also caused controversy because it was used without permission from the SCCA, who threatened suit. GM settled the dispute by paying US$5 to the SCCA for every car sold. When the Trans-Am was last seen, model year 2002 Firebirds were in use. Firebirds were used in the IROC Series until it folded after the 2006 season.
During the 1995, 1996, and 1997 NHRA seasons, 14-time
Funny CarFunny Car is a drag racing car class. In the United States, other "professional" classes are Top Fuel, Pro Stock, and Pro Stock Motorcycle. Funny cars have forward-mounted engines and carbon fiber automotive bodies over the chassis, giving them an appearance vaguely approximating manufacturers'...
champion
John ForceJohn Harold Force is an NHRA drag racer, a 15-time Funny Car champion driver, and a 17-time champion car owner. Force owns and drives for John Force Racing. He is one of the most dominant drag racers in the sport with 133 career victories...
used a Firebird body to replace the obsolete
Oldsmobile CutlassThe Oldsmobile Cutlass is a line of automobiles made by the Oldsmobile division of General Motors. The Cutlass began as a unibody compact car, but saw its greatest success as a body-on-frame intermediate car....
and
Chevrolet LuminaThe North American Chevrolet Lumina sedan , coupe and minivan were first introduced in 1989 for the 1990 model year as a new range of vehicles from the Chevrolet brand of General Motors to replace the Chevrolet Camaro, Chevrolet Celebrity sedan, and the Monte Carlo coupe. The Lumina was an answer...
body he had used since 1988. He used it for three seasons, winning the championship in all three years. The Firebird body also replaced the Oldsmobile Cutlass in the Pro Stock class in 1995, forcing drivers
Warren JohnsonWarren Johnson is an NHRA drag racing driver. He is the driver with the most wins in pro stock with 97 career wins, earning himself the nickname The Professor of Pro Stock.-Career:...
, Jerry Eckman, and Mark Pawuk to replace their body styles for the 1996 year, none of them would win with the first year of the Firebird body, but Pro Stock driver Jim Yates, a second year driver, using the Firebird body, would.
External links