The Pontiac Firebird was a pony car built by the Pontiac Motor Division of General Motors and was manufactured from 1967 until 2002.

The Firebird was introduced in the same year as the Mercury Cougar, which also shared a platform with another well-known pony car, the Ford Mustang.

The vehicles were, for the most part, powered by various V8 motors of different GM divisions. While primarily Pontiac-powered until 1982, Firebirds were built with several different engines from nearly every GM division.

All Firebirds have always included solid rear axles, also referred to as live axles. Pontiac switched to a coil spring/torque arm rear suspension design in 1982.

First generation (1967–1969)

The first-generation Firebirds had a characteristic "coke-bottle" styling. Unlike the Camaro, its bumpers were integrated into the design of the front end and its rear "slit" taillights were inspired by the Pontiac GTO. Both a two-door hardtop and a convertible were offered through the 1970 model year (the next generation, dropping the convertible, being announced as 1970 1/2 models).

It outsold the Camaro.

The base model had a 230 in³ (3.8 L) OHC six-cylinder, single-barrel carburetor motor developing 165 hp (123 kW). The next model, the Sprint, had a four-barrel carburetor, developing 215 hp (160 kW). Most buyers opted for the V8s: the 326 in³ (5.3 L) two-barrel 250 hp (186 kW, the 'H.O.' (High Output) engine of the same size but with a four-barrel carburetor 285 hp (213 kW), or the 400 in³ (6.6 L) from the GTO 325 hp (242 kW). A Ram Air option was available, with functional hood scoops, higher flow heads with stronger valve springs and a different camshaft. Power for the Ram/Air package was the same as the conventional 400HO, but peaked at a higher RPM. The 230 in³ (3.8 L) engines were replaced by 250 in³ (4.1 L) ones, developing 175 hp (130 kW) single barrel, and 215 hp (160 kW) four-barrel. Also, for 1968, the 326 in³ (5.3 L) motor was replaced by a 350 in³ (5.7 L). An H.O. version of the 400 in³ (6.6 L) was offered from 1968, with a revised cam, and developed 330 hp (246 kW), while power output on the other engines increased marginally. In 1969, a $725 optional handling package called the Trans Am Performance and Appearance Package which had rear spoiler was introduced, named after the Trans-Am Series. As the name was used without permission, the SCCA threatened to sue, but GM settled the deal by paying $5 to the SCCA for every car sold. Of these first Trans Ams, 689 hardtops and eight convertibles were made. There was an additional Ram Air IV engine option for the 400 in³ that year to complement the Ram Air II; these generated 345 and 335 hp respectively. Bodywise, the only 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 moved to wrap around the front edges of the car, and, for the rear, the Pontiac (V-shaped) Arrowhead logo was added to each side.

The 1969 model received a major facelift with a new front end design made of an Endura bumper housing the headlights and grilles. Inside, there was a revised instrument panel and steering wheel. Also, 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 would ultimately delay introduction of the all-new 1970 Firebird past the usual fall debut, Pontiac continued production of 1969-model Firebirds into the early months of the 1970 model year (the other 1970 Pontiacs were introduced Sept. 18, 1969) until the end of calendar year 1969. By late spring 1969, Pontiac deleted all model year references on Firebird literature and promotional materials anticipating the extended production run of the then-current 1969 models.

The first-generation Firebird could easily be told from the Camaro with its four round headlamps, while the Camaro got only two.

Second generation (1970–1981)

The second generation appeared for the 1970 model year as a mid-year introduction on February 26, 1970 - but was officially designated by Pontiac as a 1970 model, not a 1970 1/2 as many sources have reported through the years. Replacing the coke bottle 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. This body style was the longest-serving, initially with a large C-pillar until 1975; from that year, the rear window was enlarged. A substantial slant-nose facelift came in 1977, redone in 1979. From 1977 to 1981, the Firebird used four square headlamps, while the Camaro retained the two round headlights that had previously been shared by both cars.

The Firebird Trans Am with the 455 engine was the last high-performance muscle engine of the original muscle car generation. The 455 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 used the left over components from Pontiac's 366 NASCAR engine and was built as a full bore racing engine producing over 540 horsepower and was then toned down to appease the EPA and to meet GM's strict horsepower policy which required all GM vehicles to hold the HP to under 300. As a result, the PMD engineers listed the SD-455 at 290 hp but in reality, was producing in final form, 371 hp SAE NET (Approx 440 gross horsepower). What made this engine unique was the ease with which it could be returned to its 500+ horsepower form. The SD-455 is often considered the last of the true muscle car engines and, by many, considered to be the most powerful factory Pontiac engine ever produced. Pontiac offered the 455 for a few more years, but tightening restrictions on vehicle emissions guaranteed its demise. The 1976 Trans Am was the last of the "Big Cube Birds" with only 7,100 units made with the 455 engine.

The 1981 Turbo Trans Am featured a 4.9L Turbocharged V8 Engine known as the 301T

The 1974 Firebird Formula, optioned with a 400 in³ engine and 4-bbl carburetor

In 1974, Pontiac offered the 400, 455 and SD-455 in the Trans Am. The 400 and 455 engines were the only other option in the 1975 and 1976 models. In 1976 Pontiac celebrated their 50th anniversary, 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 (option W72) rated at 200 hp, as opposed to the regular 6.6 Litre 400 (option L78) rated at 180 hp. In addition, California and high altitude cars received the Olds 403. The Olds engine offered slightly higher compression and a more usable torque band than the Pontiac engine in 1977. Beginning in 1978, Pontiac engineers reversed years of declining HP numbers by raising compression in the Pontiac 400 through the installation of different cylinder heads with smaller combustions chambers (from the Pontiac 350). This bumped HP by 20 for a total of 220 for 1978-79. The 400/403 options were available until 1979. The 400 cubic inch engines used in 1979 were only available in the 4 speed transmission Trans Ams and Formulas and were stockpiled from 1978. 1979 was the 10th anniversary of the Trans Am and a special 10th anniversary package was available. It was painted silver with a silver lether interior. The 10th anniversary cars featured a special hood bird which extended off of the hood and onto the front fenders. PMD cut production of the engine at the end of the model year in 1978. In 1980, because of ever increasing emissions restrictions, Pontiac dropped all of its large displacement engines.

The 1977 Firebird Trans Am: one of the more popular Second-Generation models 

1980 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 turbocharged 301 or the Chevrolet 305 small block. The 301 was so underpowered that during filming of the second "Smokey and The Bandit" film, the car (Trigger II) had to be equipped with nitrous just to get the car to spin tires.

The final year of the second generation Trans Am, 1981, still used the same engines as the previous year with the only changes being the addition of a new electronic carburation system.

1981 Turbo Trans Am

Third generation (1982–1992)

The third-generation F-body was quite a bit lighter than its predecessor. GM's CCC ("Computer Command Control") engine control system continued to evolve, raising performance and fuel economy while simultaneously lowering emissions.

Engines:

• 1982-1983 LU5 5.0 L V8, 165-175 hp and 240-250 ft·lbf
• 1982-1984 LC1 2.8 L V6, 102-107 hp and 142-145 ft·lbf
• 1982-1985 LQ8 2.5 L I4, 88-92 hp and 132-134 ft·lbf
• 1982-1987 LG4 5.0 L V8, 145-170 hp and 240-250 ft·lbf
• 1983-1984 LL1 2.8 L V6, 125 hp and 145 ft·lbf
• 1983-1986 L69 5.0 L V8, 190 hp and 240 ft·lbf
• 1985-1989 LB8 2.8 L V6, 135 hp and 165 ft·lbf
• 1985-1992 LB9 5.0 L V8, 190-230 hp and 275-300 ft·lbf
• 1987-1992 L98 5.7 L V8, 225-245 hp and 330-345 ft·lbf
• 1988-1992 L03 5.0 L V8, 170 hp and 255 ft·lbf
• 1989-1989 LC2 3.8 L V6, 250 hp and 340 ft·lbf (Turbo Charged engine)
• 1990-1992 LH0 3.1 L V6, 140 hp and 180 ft·lbf

1982

In 1982, the 3rd Generation Firebirds were introduced: Firebird, Firebird S/E, and Firebird Trans Am. The Firebird was the base model, equivalent to the Camaro Sport Coupe, the Firebird S/E was a higher option level which could be loaded with more options than the Trans Am. The Trans Am was the highest performance level for the Firebird. The Firebird and Camaro got a new front end, with two pop-up headlights for the Firebird, and four exposed units for the Camaro.

In addition to being 500 lb lighter, the new Firebird was the most aerodynamic production Firebird to date. Wind tunnels were used to form the body shape. The aerodynamic developments extended to the finned aluminum wheels with smooth caps and a functional spoiler. The Trans Am received a turbo bulge hood styled loosely off the earlier turbo Trans Am. Plans had originally been made to use the Pontiac 4.9 turbo, but it was scrapped at the last minute. The hood remained and was made functional for the Cross-fire injected 305. The S/E could be had with every option the Trans Am could, but didn't use the bulged hood. Leather seating was also available on all models. Firebirds were available with several engines. The standard fuel injected 90 hp 2.5 L 4 cylinder Pontiac Iron Duke, a 102 hp 2.8 L V6, and two 5.0 L V8's. The first and most common was the LG4, a basic carburetor equipped 305 producing 145 hp. The other was a new fuel injected 305 using a fuel injection system similar to the 82 Corvette's 5.7L and producing 165 hp. The base Firebird came standard with 14" steel wheels. 14" aluminum and 15" aluminum wheels were available on the SE and Trans Am. Pontiac had also hoped to drop all the "Trans Am" badges from the new cars to save royalties paid to the SCCA for use of the name. Early promotional cars were marked "T/A" as an alternative, however the production cars came marked as Trans Am regardless. The WS6 option, available on the SE's and Trans Ams included 4 wheel disc brakes, P215/65R15 Goodyear Eagle GT radials with 15" cast aluminum wheels, stiffer springs, thicker front and rear sway bars, a high ratio 12.7:1 steering box, and limited slip rear differential.

The Trans Am came with the two 305 Chevy V8s as Pontiac V8s were no longer being produced. The four-speed manual transmission came with the four-barrel carbureted version that put out a milquetoast 145 horsepower, while the Cross-Fire injected 305 rated at 165 horses came with the automatic transmission. With either drive train, the newest Trans Am was no match for the 5.0 Mustang GT that took the performance car revival by storm that year thanks to its High Output 302, which started out with a two-barrel carburetor, 157 horses and a Top-Loader four-speed transmission to move the muscle, but the Mustang was much lighter than the Camaro or Firebird and the 302 engine had a much better assortment of high performance parts than the Chevy small block forced on Pontiac.

Its dimensions were reduced, wheel base was shortened, and weight reduced. It was also the closest in size to the 1967 model yet. Road & Track selected the '82 Firebird Trans Am as 1 of the 12 best cars in the world along with the Camaro. It won Best Sports GT category in the $11,000 to $14,000 range with the Camaro. It was also the 1st time a 4 cylinder was available in a Firebird. The windshield slope was 60 degrees, about 3 degrees steeper than anything GM ever tried before.

1983

In 1983, the Firebird remained basically unchanged. All Firebirds switch to a T-handle automatic gearshift knob. The shift indicator changed for the Automatic Overdrive 700-R4. Midyear the L69 high output 305 was introduced. The carbureted 190 hp V8 was virtually identical to the L69 in the Z28, but used a different air cleaner assembly. Instead of the Camaro's dual snorkel air cleaner, the L69 Trans Am received yet another functional cold air intake, designed to utilize the bulged hood. The Trans Am was selected as the DAYTONA 500 pace car. Pontiac sold 500 Daytona pace car replicas through their dealerships. The limited edition cars featured full body ground effect skirts, extending around the entire car. The front bumper grills were replaced with molded plastic panels, with the "Trans Am" script on the right panel. Also included were: Recaro leather/suede seats, special 15" "AERO" wheels with smooth covers, red gauge lighting, leather appointments, Daytona 500 graphics, and a unique white and charcoal paint scheme. The pace cars were only available with the LU5 Crossfire injected 305 with an automatic or the LG4 carbureted 305 with 5-speed manual. Other special packages were also available such as the Recaro trim package, which included the Recaro seats, and black paint with gold highlights.

A black Pontiac Firebird Trans Am built to mimic KITT from the TV series Knight Rider.

KITT on display at Universal Studios.

1984

For 1984 the Trans Am was now available with the same ground effects used on the previous years pace car replica. Grill inserts in front fascia replaced with solid pieces. New 20 slot 15" aluminum wheels also available. For the 15th anniversary of the Trans Am, Pontiac released another special limited edition Trans Am. Using the same body as the 83 pace car replicas, but with new 16" 20 slot convex aluminum wheels with Goodyear P245/50VR16 unidirectional tires. The new wheel/tire combo was very similar to the current Corvette's P255/50ZR16 arrangement. This was the first appearance of 16" wheels on a third generation F-body and was also the first Pontiac to come with 16' wheels. The 1500 15th Anniversary Trans Ams also included upgraded WS6 suspension with a new 25 mm rear sway bar vs. the normal WS6's 23 mm bar. The other features included: gray multitone and white leather Recaro interior, steering wheel, shifter, and parking brake handle, white striped taillights, white wheels, special blue stripes and blue hood decal, 4 wheel disc brakes, and T-tops. The only available V8 engines were the LG4 and L69.

1985

1985 Firebird Trams Am: Pontiac would use this wheel pattern until the early '90s on many non-Firebirds as well.

In 1985, All Firebird models underwent redevelopment to boost sales. LB9 Tuned Port Injected 305 is released. The new port fuel injected engine replaces the 305 H.O. as the hot ticket. Using a tuned runner design the 305 makes 215 hp. The new engine gains attention but is not available with a manual transmission. Carbureted V6 is dropped and replaced with new multi port fuel injected 2.8 L V6 making 135 hp. A Borg-Warner 9 bolt differential is available for first time. The new positive traction rear end is said to be stronger than the Dana 44. The interior was evolved by adding new Recaro styled seats, a new dash with redesigned gauges that used an embossed graph patterned background, new door panels, new T handle shifter for automatics, new ergonomic console, updated stereo, dash mounted map pocket, and a new ergonomic steering wheel. Further attempts to put the Trans Am into higher regard include: a new digital dash and a new overhead console. The console included two manually adjusted reminder wheels, a positionable map light, a removable "Firebird" flashlight, and a small pocket for a garage door opener or sunglasses. T-tops are also redesigned to use pin mounting rather than the previous year’s latches.

1985's benchmark makeover: restyled nose, vents, and return of the full hood bird

Trans Am drag coefficient is .32 but capable of .29 with standard Aero wheels over the High-Tech turbo aluminums. At the time it was the most aerodynamic car GM ever produced.

The Firebird received a restyled nose with wrap-around strips known as "bumperettes" to replace the old grille/solid inserts. Wrap around strips are also on the bumper. New tail lenses are introduced on Firebird. The Trans Am "Power Bulge" hood was discontinued in favor of new flat hood with twin louvered nostrils that were not functional. Trans Am received a restyled nose with integrated fog lights, new redesigned ground effects now standard. New "low density" taillights have a grid pattern. The Trans Am received previous years suspension as standard, WS6 is upgraded with new larger sway bars. Aluminum 16" 20 slot wheels are now available on all Trans Ams. Recaro option no longer available, but Recaro seats were.

1986

In 1986, All Firebirds received center, high mounted stop lamps as required by Federal legislation, placed on top of back window. Standard 2.5 L 4 cylinder engine dropped, multi port fuel injected 2.8 L V6 now becomes the standard engine. Firebird SE discontinued. New optional rubber/vinyl wrap-around rear spoiler introduced on Trans Am, available only in black. Mid year Pontiac introduces new light weight cross lace wheel available on Trans Am. Only 26 Trans Ams with the 305 H.O L69 were built in '86, it was discontinued because of fuel boiling. 305 TPI drops from 215 hp to 190 hp. Mid-Year, the L98 TPI 350 rated at 225 hp makes an appearance in the Trans Am. Paint RPO's change for new base-coat, clear-coat process. The '86 model also included the CHMSL (Center High Mounted Stop Light), just like its sister model, the '86 Chevrolet Camaro. American Sunroof (ASC), licensed by Chevrolet to build the upcoming 1987 Camaro convertible, builds 3 1986 Trans Am convertibles as a "design exercise".

1987

In 1987, Firebird body remains basically unchanged. All center high mounted stop lamps relocated to new position below spoilers. Large hood Firebird emblem disappears forever. All V8's receive factory roller camshafts. Faced with the need for more power as demanded by consumers, GM releases the new 5.7 L with tuned port fuel injection. Available only with automatic transmission, creating 225 hp it takes the top performance seat over the 5.0 L. L69 production stopped, leaving the LG4 as the only carbureted V8 used in an F-body. Trans Am GTA introduced, available with the LB9 305 TPI motor (which was brought back to 215 hp) or the L98 350 TPI. Gold 16" flat mesh diamond spoke wheels standard on GTA, and 16" 20 slot wheel standard on Trans Am. Formula receives 16" convex wheels only. Firebird Formula introduced, available with LG4, LB9 and L98 350 TPI motor. The earlier Trans Am "Power Bulge" hood returns on the Formula only. Wrap-around spoiler updated and now standard on Trans Am and Formula. Regular flat wing spoiler from earlier Trans Am now standard on Firebird.

The Trans Am GTA was Pontiac's pride and joy with a standard 5.7 L 350 Tuned Port Injection (TPI), the engine itself was pulled directly out of the C4 Corvette that began in 1985 and was used all the way through 1992. Its performance numbers were comparable to GMs flagship platform the Corvette. The factory "screaming chicken" seen previously in the firebird line up would be gone forever from the Trans Am line up. The vehicles target audience was males in their mid twenties to thirties Pontiac was trying to reach a more mature audience. The car came with a standard TH-700R4(4L60) automatic transmission, AC, and the legendary WS6 performance handling package. All of these options were packaged into the GTA (gran turismo Americano)under the RPO Code Y84. The GTA was produced until the end of the third generation f-bodies in the year 1992. Truly the greatest package ever.

Trans Am and Formula get optional 140 mph speedometer. Trans Am GTA gets new seats with inflatable lumbar and side bolsters. GTA also receives special door panels, epoxy filled emblems, body colored ground effects, and special GTA horn button. Also new for '87, Pontiac offers the promise of a Firebird/Trans Am convertible, built after market by ASC (of ASC McLaren fame) alongside the new Camaro convertible.

1988 Trans Am GTA equipped with a 305 TPI V8, and rare 5-speed manual transmission.

1988

For 1988, the Firebird remained basically unchanged. The 170 hp LG4 carbureted 5.0L was dropped in favor of new 170 hp L03 throttle body injected 5.0L. All V8's received serpentine belt systems and the A/C compressors were moved to passengers the side of engine, de-cluttering the under hood area. The Firebird Formula gets new high tech 16x8" aluminum wheels with silver WS6 center caps. GTA wheels were slightly restyled. Convex 16" wheels were dropped as all Trans Ams got the 16x8" diamond spoke aluminum rims available in different colors, such as: white, red, charcoal, and black, in addition to the GTA's gold. The GTA received new a steering wheel with integrated radio controls. The Trans Am was made available with body colored ground effects like the GTA. Optional on the GTA was a new "notchback" hatch. Rather than glass the new "notchback" consisted of a fiberglass trunk lid with a flat vertical glass window. The notch back also incorporated redesigned rear seatbacks with an integrated headrest. The optional convertible model also carries over.

1989 For 1989, GM made new N10 dual catalytic converter exhaust available, freeing up 13% more power from some LB9 and L98 equipped Trans Ams. L98 ups to 235 hp. Firebirds optioned with t-tops received new Lexan plastic tops. The new tops were lighter in weight and tinted darker, but were more dome shaped and aged rapidly. GM replaced many sets with glass under warranty, but the Lexan tops continued through 1992. All rear disc brake optioned Firebirds now receive PBR brake calipers and larger brake rotors. This resolved issues GM encountered with the earlier rear discs, and increased stopping power. Introduction of GM's Vehicle Anti Theft System or V.A.T.S. makes all Firebirds more theft resistant by incorporating a small resistor into the key. VATS equipped cars also display antitheft system warning decals in the lower rear corners of side windows. A new CD player is offered. The convertible model carries over.

The Trans Am is selected to pace the Indianapolis 500. Pontiac markets another pace car replica. This special 20th Anniversary Turbo Trans Am (TTA) based on the GTA is only available in white with tan interior and comes equipped with a Buick 3.8L V6 with a turbocharger developed for the Buick Grand National. These replicas are as close to the actual pace car as any replica offered up to this time. The only changes made to the cars that actually were on the track during the race were the additions of strobe lights and safety equipment. 1,555 were produced, 5 being test cars. Out of 1,550 cars produced by PAS, the actual pace cars were randomly selected and sent to Indy for testing and modification. When they were released to the public they were underrated in horsepower. Not all came with T-Tops or with leather, there were hardtops and cloth cars. Every car had an automatic transmission, the 2004R. The five test TTA's, because they were for pre-production use, were pulled off of the assembly line without regard to color and they were not white. At least two of these test cars were sold to private individuals. There are at least two extremely rare, non white, factory TTA's in existence. It’s known that one is red. Only three convertible TTA'S were built by ASC, one of which was bought by the president of PAS, the other two falling into private hands.

Specs:

1,321 T-Top & Leather Interior 187 T-Top & Cloth Interior 24 Hardtop & Leather Interior 15 Hardtop & Cloth Interior (Base) 3 Convertible (prev. T-Top) & Leather int. 4 Test Cars with T-Top & Cloth Interior 1 Test Car with Hardtop & Leather Interior

1990

In 1990 a driver’s side air bag was now standard. The Firebird interior again meets a redesign, this time the changes are much less drastic. Pontiac changes the lower dash and under dash panels. Accessory switches get new panel above heater and radio controls. Shoulder belts are added in the back. The console got a new shift indicator and different leather boot. Steering wheel mounted radio controls disappear from the GTA with the addition of the airbag. L98 cars no longer offered in a convertible due to supposed torque limitations of the unibody construction. Like the 1990 Camaro, the Firebird also only received a half year production as Pontiac raced to release the 1991. LB9 and L98 platforms updated with new speed density fuel injection. The elimination of the MAF sensor was for cheaper production costs and supposed improved performance.

  1991 Firebird with re-styled nose

1991

For 1991, all Firebirds received restyled noses loosely fashioned after "Banshee" show car as Pontiac was developing the new fourth generation platform. Trans Ams ground effects were restyled as well. The Base model Firebird was made available with Trans Am ground effects. The Trans Am and Firebird Formula received new fiberglass constructed, flat, wrap-around wing spoilers. The new styling brought higher sales, up from 1990's sales. All L98 cars now receive N10 dual catalytic converters standard. The Trans Am and GTA got updated 2 piece taillights with "PONTIAC" scripted in orange across the panels. Center high mounted stop lamps move to inside top edge of hatch. The Firebird convertible is now built on-site on the production line. Previously, ASC was converting customer/dealer ordered T-tops cars, but not officially offered through GM. The Firebird convertible was available with the LHO 3.1L V6, the L03 5.0 V8, and the LB9 5.0 V8. Production improvements led to use of new body sealants that added to the rigidity of the body.

1992

1992 marked the final year for third generation platform. 1992 provided few changes for the Firebird. Mid-year tuned port injected cars received blank throttle body plates rather than the "TUNED PORT INJECTION" plates of prior years, and black painted valve covers rather than the previous years silver components. The end of the L98 in the Corvette led to rough cast runners finding their way into L98 birds. Some cars received special rubber snubbers on the rear hatch frame designed to make the hatch more stable. Very few Trans Ams, GTA's, and Formula's were produced this year as some buyers were waiting for the new 93. In 1992, a company by the name of Street Legal Performance(SLP), modified a factory built Formula into what they called the "Firehawk". When you were to purchase your car, you would specify that you wanted this limited option. Then the Formula you selected, was sent out to SLP to be modified. No two cars they produced were alike, for they all were special orders. SLP had anticipated making 250 of these screaming machines, but only 27 were ordered. Out of those only 25 were ever built. They were numbered 1-25 for hardtops (numbers 18 and 23 were never built), and the ONLY Firehawk Convertible was numbered 27. Of those 25 Firehawks 21 were "Mandatory" Red, 1 Aqua, 1 White, 1 Blue, 1 Green, 11 had the Competition Package, 3 came with Aluminum Engine Blocks, 1 had T-Tops and 1 was a Convertible. RPO Code: B4U

Standard features: $39,995

• SLP modified 350 engine rated at 350 hp@5500 rpm and 390 ft·lbf@4400 rpm
• 17"X9.5" Ronal Rims with Firestone Firehawk SZ P275/275/40 ZR17 tires
• ZF 6-speed manual transmission with carbon fiber clutch
• Stainless catalytic converter exhaust system
• A performance Dana 44 rear axle with 3.54:1 Posi-gears
• Special Firehawk badging decals and numbered plaque

Competition Package: $9,995

• Cross-drilled 13 in Brembo Ferrari F-40 brakes
• Full roll cage minus the back seat
• Aluminum hood
• Recaro racing seats with full harnesses by Simpson and rear seat delete.

The engine:

• 4-bolt main engine block
• Forged steel crankshaft
• 1053 alloy forged steel "Pink" connecting rods
• Lightweight high silicon cast aluminum pistons
• Steel billet hydraulic roller camshaft
• High output aluminum cylinder heads with stainless steel valves
• Ray Falconer designed port injection intake manifold

Performance:

• Power to weight ratio: 9.7 lb per hp
• 0 to 60 mph: 4.6 seconds
• Quarter mile time: 13.2 seconds @ 107 mph
• Top speed: 160 mph
• Skid pad: 0.88g on full tread

Fourth generation (1993–2002)

The fourth generation F-body continued the aerodynamic formula initiated by the previous generation but it fell victim to 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.

1993-1997 Trans Am Convertible

From 1993 until 1995 (1995 non-California cars), Firebirds received a 3.4L V6 with 160 hp, or the 5.7L 275 hp LT1 V8. The 1993 Firehawk (only available in Formula trim for 1993) 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, and they routinely out-performed 1993 Corvettes, leading many to believe that the power rating was purposely underrated to allow the Corvette (also rated at 300 hp for the 1993 model year) to be the listed "king of power" (and price tag) for that year. In fact, 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.

1994 marked the 25^th Anniversary of the Trans Am, and another Anniversary Edition was released, painted white with a single blue stripe down the center of the vehicle — clearly reminiscent of the 1970 Trans Am.

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.A performance package was also offered. The package offered Polyurethane Bushings, suspension upgrades, as well as a freer intake/exhaust similar to that on the Chevrolet Corvette, supplying 310 hp to very few of the Firebird models; those that did receive this set-up were able to accelerate from 0-62 mph in 4.9 seconds and cover a quarter-mile in 13.2 seconds at 110 mph (180 km/h). The 'Perform Transmission' button, which was available in the 310 hp Trans Ams, gave a 25% increase in torque with every kickdown, and resulted in a maximum of 350 ft·lbf (470 N·m) of torque. Although the redline displayed on the tachometer was 5000 rpm, the engines were capable of revving to 7000 rpm.The Firebirds which had the package were among the fastest cars at the time.

1996 Firebird Formula with functional "Ram Air" hood.

1996 and later models had a 200 hp 3.8L V6 as the base engine, and the power rating of the LT1 had been raised to 285, thanks to a new dual catalytic converter exhaust system which was offered in previous years by order only.

The very rare 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.

One of 12 1998 Pontiac Trans Ams in factory "Bright Purple Metallic"

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 (not due to production issues with the paint, as rumors have implied). 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 2 convertibles) made it out of the factory dressed in "Bright Purple Metallic." For 1998-2002 Pontiac utilized the same heavy duty brakes, steering ratios, fuel pumps and shocks (non-WS6) on both V6 and V8 models.

The 1999 30^th Anniversary Trans Am

1999 marked the 30^th Anniversary of the Trans Am since it's release in 1969, and Pontiac commemorated this event by creating another white Anniversary Edition Trans Am. This commemorative package came with twin blue stripes which more closely patterned the original paint scheme of the 1969 Trans Am. Along with the stripes, blue streamline graphics were added on the sides and blue anodized wheels were included with this package.

The final model year of the Firebird, 2002, offered a distinctive "Collector's Edition" Trans Am, painted yellow. Like the Chevrolet Camaro, the Fourth Generation Firebird and Trans Am were built in Sainte-Thérèse, Quebec, and the plant closed down after producing the last F-body cars. This marked the 35th anniversary of the F-Body cars since their initial release.

The LS1 Firebirds, despite their poor sales, were among the fastest ever produced. Outfitted with the all-aluminum 5.7L V8 from the Corvette C5, and producing 300 hp at 5,200 rpm; 335 ft·lbf (454 N·m) , 454 Nm @ 4,000 rpm (310 after 2000) or 320 hp (325 after 2000) in the WS-6 "Ram Air" version, these Fourth Generation Firebirds could out-perform just about any of their predecessors (including the original "muscle car" Firebirds). In 2001 and 2002, models equipped with a V8 received the higher-flow LS6 intake manifold and a higher-performance clutch. Firebird enthusiasts believe these engines were underrated by the factory, and that these cars often produce up to 20 horsepower (30 kW) more than rated. The rare Firehawk model, made by SLP and sold through Pontiac dealerships, had 330 hp (335 after 2000, 355 in late 2002 models). Even the last of the V6-equipped Firebirds were rated at an impressive 205 hp, which was more than some of the earlier-generation V8's could muster (in fact, the final V6 Firebirds are as quick as almost any V8-equipped Firebird produced before 1985). Average quarter-mile elapsed times for the Fourth Generation Firebirds were reported as 15.2 seconds at 90 mph (140 km/h) for V6-equipped vehicles, and 13.2 seconds at 110 mph (180 km/h) for those with the V8; in the hands of an experienced driver, the latter cars have even been known to "crack" the 12-second quarter mile mark. Top speeds for both the V6 and V8 versions were generally governed according to their factory tire ratings, which were typically 118 mph (190 km/h) for the V6 models. However, with the governor programmed out and applying V8 speed rated tires, V6 Firebirds will reach in excess of 130 mph (210 km/h) (4th gear limited) with the Y-87 performance package and a 5-speed transmission, whereas V8 models that had Z-rated tires had a speed limiter set to 167 mph (269 km/h).

Trans Am engines

First generation

1967: OHC Sprint 6 (Pontiac); 326 (Pontiac); Ram Air III 400 (Pontiac)

1968: 350 (Pontiac); Ram Air III 400 (Pontiac)

1969: 350 (Pontiac); Ram Air III 400 Pontiac

Second generation

• 1970: Ram Air III 400 (Pontiac), Ram Air IV 400 (Pontiac)
• 1971: Base 455 (Pontiac), 455 H.O. (Pontiac)
• 1972: Base 455 (Pontiac), 455 H.O. (Pontiac)
• 1973: Base 455 (Pontiac), Super Duty 455 (Pontiac)
• 1974: 400 (Pontiac), Base 455 (Pontiac), Super Duty 455 (Pontiac)
• 1975: 400 (Pontiac), 455 (Pontiac)
• 1976: 400 (Pontiac), 455 (Pontiac)
• 1977: 403 (Oldsmobile), 400 (Pontiac), W72 400 (Pontiac)
• 1978: 403 (Oldsmobile), 400 (Pontiac), W72 400 (Pontiac)
• 1979: 301 (Pontiac), 403 (Oldsmobile), W72 400 (Pontiac)
• 1980: 301 (Pontiac), 305 (4 speed only) (Chevrolet), 301 Turbo (Pontiac)

Third generation

From 1982 on all engines are Chevrolets unless stated otherwise.

• 1982: 305 4 barrel, 305 Cross-Fire Injection (First year for fuel injection in Trans Am)

• 1983: 305 4 barrel, 305 Cross-Fire Injection, 305 4 barrel H.O. (Only 662 were made all 5-speeds.)
• 1984: 305 4 barrel, 305 4 barrel H.O.(1500 anniversary editions, 500 of them 5 speed)
• 1985: 305 4 barrel, 305 Tuned Port Injection, 305 4 barrel H.O. (5 speed only)
• 1986: 305 4 barrel, 305 Tuned Port Injection, 305 4 barrel H.O. (5 speed only)
• 1987: 305 4 barrel, 305 Tuned Port Injection, 350 Tuned Port Injection
• 1988: 305 Throttle Body Injection, 305 Tuned Port Injection, 350 Tuned Port Injection
• 1989: 305 Throttle Body Injection, 305 Tuned Port Injection, 350 Tuned Port Injection, 231 Turbo (Buick)
• 1990: 305 Throttle Body Injection, 305 Tuned Port Injection, 350 Tuned Port Injection
• 1991: 305 Throttle Body Injection, 305 Tuned Port Injection, 350 Tuned Port Injection
• 1992: 305 Throttle Body Injection, 305 Tuned Port Injection, 350 Tuned Port Injection

Fourth generation

• 1993: LT1 5.7L (350 in³ Iron block aluminum heads)
• 1994: LT1 5.7L (350 in³ Iron block aluminum heads)
• 1995: LT1 5.7L (350 in³ Iron block aluminum heads)
• 1996: LT1 5.7L (350 in³ Iron block aluminum heads)
• 1997: LT1 5.7L (350 in³ Iron block aluminum heads) / LT4 5.7L (350 in³ Iron block aluminum heads) in Firehawk by SLP
• 1998: LS1 5.7L (346 in³ Aluminum block and heads)
• 1999: LS1 5.7L (346 in³ Aluminum block and heads)
• 2000: LS1 5.7L (346 in³ Aluminum block and heads)
• 2001: LS1 5.7L (346 in³ Aluminum block and heads)
• 2002: LS1 5.7L (346 in³ Aluminum block and heads)

Firebirds in popular culture

• In the movie Donnie Darko Frank drives a second-generation Trans Am

• One of the best-known Firebirds was on television, in the James Garner series The Rockford Files. Garner's character drove a gold 1974 Firebird, updated each year of the series and apparently an Esprit in most sequences.

• The Ponch character on 1970s television series CHiPs drove a gold 1973 Firebird while off-duty, which had a mix of Trans Am (hood and side heat extractors) and Formula (hood air intakes) features.

• Three black Firebird Trans Ams featured in the Smokey and the Bandit movies, each of the model year in which the film was made (1977, 1980 & 1983).

• Knight Rider used 1982 Trans Ams to portray KITT and KARR. As the show aired for a few years, KITT and KARR were subtly updated with 1983 and 1984 models. A 1979 Firebird and a baby blue 1982 model briefly appeared in one episode.

• In the movie Alphabet City, Vincent Spano's character drives a 1983 CFI Automatic Daytona 500 Trans Am.

• In the movie McQ, John Wayne's character drives a Brewster Green 1973 Trans Am 400.

• In the movie Thunderbolt and Lightfoot, Jeff Bridges's character steals a white 1973 Trans Am (this was actually Clint Eastwood's personal car that he owned until selling it in 1981).

• In the road race film Cannonball (not to be confused with the Cannonball Run films) David Carradine drives a 1970-72 Buccaneer Red Trans Am with incorrect stripes.

• Roy Scheider drove a black 1979 Trans Am in Blue Thunder. Steve McQueen rented an all black 1979 in The Hunter. And Sylvester Stallone in Rocky II also drove a black 1979 Trans Am.

• A Firebird Turbo Trans Am police car was seen in the movie Cannonball Run chasing a Lamborghini Countach.

• In The Simpsons Apu owns a red late-'70s Bandit-style Trans Am that you see in a few episodes. Snake, who has a habit of robbing Apu's Kwik-E-Mart, drives a 1968 Firebird that Homer purchases in a police auction in the episode Reality Bites.

• In An Innocent Man, Tom Selleck's character drives a black 1979-81 Firebird.

• Also, a Trans Am was seen in the movie Corvette Summer starring Mark Hamill.

• In American Beauty, Kevin Spacey's character trades his Toyota Camry for a red 1970 Firebird Formula.

• In the movie The Last Ride, a grey 2002 convertible model was featured.

• Daryl Hannah drove one in the movie Kill Bill 2. When filming ended, she bought the car which she rarely drives.

• The freeway chase scene in The Matrix Reloaded featured a first-generation coupe.

• Mark Wahlberg's character drives a yellow third-generation Formula in the movie The Big Hit.

• In Gone In 60 Seconds, Kip Raines is seen driving a red third-generation Firebird at the start of the movie before stealing the Porsche and is later seen being crushed with it in the compactor.

• In Blur's music video "Parklife", a couple can be seen posing outside their house beside their white 1978 Trans Am with a "couple" decal at their sun visor area of their windscreen.

• Ryan Dunn drives a black 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am in his show Homewrecker.

• Will Ferrell's character Frank "The Tank" Ricard is seen working on a red 1978 Trans Am and wearing a Firebird T-shirt in Old School.

• A second-generation Firebird hits a character in the 2:00 AM episode of the first season of 24.

• A blue second-generation coupe can be seen in a garage in the 2:00 PM episode of the first season of 24.

• At least three different Firebirds can be seen throughout the three seasons of Roswell; a red second-generation Trans Am, a purple fourth-generation Trans Am, and a white fourth-generation coupe.

• Niobe drives a Firebird in the 2003 video game Enter the Matrix (the car is usable in the game as either her or Ghost).

• Daniel Desario drives a red 1970s Pontiac Firebird in several episodes of Freaks and Geeks.

• In the movie Dazed and Confused, Clint drives a 1974 model. This is one of the few SD-455 Trans Ams ever to be shown in film.

• In The Transformers, Windcharger transforms into a Trans Am. However, in the cartoon, no effort is made to make the character resemble the popular American car. On the other hand, his near-duplicate "Tailgate" resembles a third-generation Firebird with symmetrical Trans Am hood. Also, a Decepticon name Runamuck transforms into a Trans Am as well.

• Adam Sandler's character (Billy Madison) drove a black Trans Am to high school in the movie Billy Madison.

• Villainous Thugs used a red Trans-Am to get away from the airport parking garage in Big Trouble in Little China starring Kurt Russell.

• Dwight Schrute in NBC's The Office drives a 1987 Firebird.
• Key to the Golden Firebird, a book by Maureen Johnson

• In Shaker Run (1985), stars Cliff Robertson and Lisa Harrow drive a pink-and-black, right-hand-drive, third-generation Trans Am.

• Amir drives a third-generation Firebird in the opening sequence of Office Space.
• In the Nelson DeMille book The Charm School, minor character Gregory Fisher drives a Metallic Blue Trans Am (Given the publication year it can be assumed to be a Third Generation) through Russia while on vacation. The Trans Am makes another appearance towards the end of the book as well.

Trivia

The Pontiac Firebird II, a concept car introduced in 1956 "for the electronic highways of the future

• The Firebird nameplate was attached to two different General Motors "bubble-top" concept cars from the 1950s. One of these, named the Firebird II, was showcased in the 1950s GM promotional film Design For Dreaming

• Abigail Folger, American coffee heiress and murder victim, bought a yellow 1968 Firebird and continued to use it up until her death in August of 1969.

• Before the redesigned 1970 models came out, the top-dog Firebird was going to be called Firebird Sebring, and the Trans Am model was going to be what became the Formula. Chrysler, however, had dibs on the Sebring name for its redesigned 1971 Plymouth Satellite, so consequently the Trans Am became the top-rung Firebird model, with the Formula as its second-banana.

• When the hit movie Smokey and the Bandit came out in the summer of 1977, sales of the Trans Am skyrocketed over 100% from 1976, no doubt due to the movie's popularity.

• Pontiac never released a "Bandit Edition" Trans Am. There were several Black and Gold Special Editions, but Pontiac never paid Universal Studios for the use of the Bandit name.

• A Pontiac Firebird 1983 was used as a base car for the Rezon, the police car used by Jiban in the tokusatsu series Kidou Keiji Jiban. This is strange, because TOEI mostly uses cars from Mazda and Suzuki.

Video games

• The games Grand Theft Auto: Vice City and San Andreas feature a car named "Phoenix", with a profile similar to that of the '79-'81 Firebirds.
• The game Grand Theft Auto 2 includes a "Trance Am" car, one of the faster vehicles available in the game.
• A 1970 Trans Am appears in Project Gotham Racing 2.
• A 1977 Trans Am can be bought in IHRA Drag Racing for the PlayStation.
• A fourth-generation Firebird Trans Am is used in Need for Speed: High Stakes.
• A fourth-generation Firebird Trans Am is available for use in "Juiced". An unlockable hood for the vehicle is the exact model used in for the 4th generation WS6.
• A second generation Trans Am was used in the 2006 video game "Scarface"
• In Driv3r, one of the cars takes it design from the second generation Trans Am in the Miami section.
• A third generation Firebird is used as KITT in Knight Rider 1 and 2 the game.