Pontiac Firebird

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Pontiac Firebird
Production period: 1967-2002
Class : Muscle car
Body versions : Coupé , convertible
Firebird logo (1977)

The Firebird was a pony car (a compact sports car ) made by the American automaker General Motors (GM) under the Pontiac brand . During the time GM was developing the Chevrolet Camaro , it was decided to develop a Pontiac model based on the Camaro. GM designed the two cars in 1966 and 1967 as competing models for the Ford Mustang during the muscle car era.

development

On January 27, 1967, five months after the debut of the sister model Chevrolet Camaro , the first Firebird was presented as a Coupé and Convertible (Cabriolet). Sales began on February 23, 1967, with prices starting at $ 2,666 for the six-cylinder version with a three-speed manual transmission. Because of the better equipment, the base price of the Firebird was always higher than that of the Camaro. Other engine variants included a V8 with 184 kW (250 PS) or 210 kW (285 PS). Pontiac's own motors were used. Unlike the sister brand Chevrolet or the Ford Group, they do not differentiate between so-called small or big blocks; there is the Pontiac block with different cubic capacities.

Pontiac Trans-Am, 1985

The car was developed under John DeLorean , General Manager of the Pontiac Motor Division and later founder of the sports car manufacturer DMC , and was given the name of the turbine-powered experimental vehicle Firebird XP-21 from the 1950s. The first Firebird was based on the then newly developed X-Body platform for the Chevrolet Nova from 1968. Based on this, the F-Body platform was developed, which it also shares with the Camaro. It was a universal platform and comprised the floor assembly from the windshield / bulkhead to the rear. At the front there was a steel subframe , which was screwed to the body as an engine and gearbox carrier using rubber blocks ( silent blocks ). Among other things, this should ensure an acoustic decoupling of the passenger cell from the drive, thereby avoiding vibrations and oscillations. The F-Body platform was produced in four generations and over a period of 35 years. With each generation change of the Firebird, the F-Body platform has also been revised.

The Pontiac Firebird was offered with different equipment, engines and extras in the Esprit, Formula or Trans Am variants, with the Trans Am always being the most powerful variant.

The success of the powerful but inexpensive coupés based on an existing high-volume platform also called numerous Japanese manufacturers to the scene. The Japanese competitors Toyota with the Celica , Honda with the Prelude and Mitsubishi with the Eclipse developed alternatives to the Firebird. In order to keep the Camaro and Firebird models attractive, GM developed numerous high-performance versions such as the Z28, the Iroc and the Trans Am in the 1970s and early 1980s.

In its heyday, over 211,000 Firebirds (1979) were made in one year. In the late 1990s, demand fell 53% over a 10-year period. The production numbers averaged just 35,000 vehicles, so GM decided to end the F-Body platform. Another issue was the age of the F-platform at that time. Further developed in over 20 years, it was no longer able to meet the upcoming safety requirements. In particular, the collision protection in the rear and in the sides would have required extensive revision, which would hardly have differed from a new development.

In September 2002, after 35 years, production of the Firebird was stopped. With the discontinuation of the Pontiac brand in 2010, there is no longer any chance of bringing a successor model to the market analogous to the Chevrolet Camaro (5th generation from 2009).

The series

1st generation (1967–1969)

1st generation
Pontiac Firebird (1968)

Pontiac Firebird (1968)
Production period: 1967-1969
Body versions : Coupé , convertible
Engines:
Petrol engines : 3.8–6.6 liters
(85–250 kW)
Length: 4796-4854 mm
Width: 1844-1877 mm
Height: 1260-1308 mm
Wheelbase : 2746 mm
Empty weight : 1488-1600 kg

The new Firebird received several improvements over the 1st generation Camaro. So the engine was moved further back to achieve a more even weight distribution. In order to avoid torsional vibrations of the driven rigid rear axle suspended from single-layer rear leaf springs , there were additional trailing arms . All Firebirds of the first generation already have a windshield made of laminated safety glass ( VSG), the side windows and the rear window are made of single-pane safety glass (ESG), the front and rear windows are glued in.

1967

After sales began on February 23, 1967, sales of 82,560 vehicles were achieved in the first year of production. This made the vehicle a complete sales success. The engine ranged from the 3.8-liter six-cylinder engine with 165 gross SAE-HP (bhp) to the 6.6-liter eight-cylinder (400 cui ) with 325 bhp, which was also offered in the Pontiac GTO . The 400 was available with or without a Ram Air system. The ram air made use of the otherwise decorative hood scoops, and the engine had a sharper camshaft and stronger valve springs. The Ram Air option was associated with a high surcharge, for $ 600 the customer received a little advertised performance upgrade, which was ordered very often. The Firebird was already used as a pace car on the Daytona International Speedway in the first year .

Engines
  • 3.8 l / 230 in³ R6 (1bbl) 123 kW / 165 bhp
  • 3.8 l / 230 in³ R6 (4bbl) 160 kW / 215 bhp
  • 5.3 l / 326 in³ V8 (2bbl) 186 kW / 250 bhp
  • 5.3 l / 326 in³ V8 HO (4bbl) 212 kW / 285 bhp
  • 6.6 l / 400 in³ V8 242 kW / 325 bhp at 4800 rpm, 556 Nm / 410 lb-ft at 3400 rpm
  • 6.6 l / 400 in³ V8 (Ram Air) 242 kW / 325 bhp at 5200 rpm, 556 Nm / 410 lb-ft at 3400 rpm

1968

The 1968 model differed only slightly, for example in the new turn signals at the front, which also served as side marker lights. The stylized Pontiac logo was affixed as a "V" on the rear side walls above the bumper. It also served as a side marker light, as required by law from 1968. In addition, the small triangular windows in the doors were omitted in favor of large door panes. 107,112 copies were built. The engine output increased to 335 bhp for the 6.6 liter engine.

Engines
  • 4.1 l / 250 in³ R6 (1bbl) 130 kW / 175 bhp at 4800 rpm, 325 Nm / 240 lb-ft at 2400 rpm
  • 4.1 l / 250 in³ R6 (4bbl) 160 kW / 215 bhp at 5200 rpm, 345 Nm / 255 lb-ft at 3800 rpm
  • 5.7 l / 350 in³ V8 (2bbl) 198 kW / 265 bhp at 4600 rpm, 481 Nm / 355 lb-ft at 2800 rpm
  • 5.7 l / 350 in³ V8 HO (4bbl) 239 kW / 320 bhp at 5100 rpm, 516 Nm / 380 lb-ft at 3200 rpm
  • 6.6 l / 400 in³ V8 246 kW / 330 bhp at 4800 rpm, 583 Nm / 430 lb-ft at 3300 rpm
  • 6.6 l / 400 in³ V8 HO (4bbl) 250 kW / 335 bhp at 5000 rpm, 583 Nm / 430 lb-ft at 3400 rpm
  • 6.6 l / 400 in³ V8 (Ram Air) 250 kW / 335 bhp at 5300 rpm, 583 Nm / 430 lb-ft at 3600 rpm

1969

The 1969 vintage was noticeably revised. Among other things, the front section received a brand-typical grill. The four headlights were no longer in the front mask with grill, but outside and were more integrated into the body shape. The "shark gills" were relocated from the rear side wall of the 1968 model as indicated air outlets to the front fender behind the wheel arches of the 1969 model. The side of the vehicle received (similar to the Chevrolet Camaro) strongly pronounced edges above the wheel arches. The shape of the rear side marker lights changed from "V" to a small Firebird logo, and small round lights were installed in the lower part of the fenders at the front. For safety reasons, the filler neck was moved from the trunk under the bumper behind the license plate. The ignition lock of the Firebird was installed in the steering column together with the steering wheel lock that is now common at GM .

The Ram Air 400 was renamed Ram Air IV, combined with a slight increase in performance. Option 400 was renamed as Ram Air II.

The base model was $ 2,821. The "Trans Am Performance and Appearance" package was introduced in March 1969 and is now the top model. Only 689 Firebird Coupés and 8 Cabriolets were built with this equipment, probably as a result of the high additional price of 725 dollars. All Trans Am were polar white with blue racing stripes, rear panels and stickers. The bonnet, exclusive to the Trans Am, had functional air intakes that could be closed by the driver. The rearward-facing fiberglass fender outlets covered fist-sized holes for venting the engine compartment. A wide spoiler spanned the aft deck. The interior was the same as in the simple Firebird, although optionally a rally instrument panel with a 160 mph speedometer and a tachometer to 8000 / min bot. Buyers could also order a hood-mounted tachometer for $ 85.

A total of 87,708 vehicles were built by the end of 1969. Due to delays in development, the 1969 model had to be built a good 4 months longer. The second generation was not presented in autumn as usual, but only at the beginning of 1970.

Even if it wasn't entirely obvious at the time, the Chevrolet Corvette and Pontiac Firebird Trans Am were the only American high-performance vehicles that have been continuously produced since their inception.

Engines
  • 4.1 l / 250 in³ R6 (1bbl) 130 kW / 175 bhp at 4800 rpm, 325 Nm / 240 lb-ft at 2400 rpm
  • 4.1 l / 250 in³ R6 (4bbl) 160 kW / 215 bhp at 5200 rpm, 345 Nm / 255 lb-ft at 3800 rpm
  • 5.7 l / 350 in³ V8 (2bbl) 198 kW / 265 bhp at 4600 rpm, 481 Nm / 355 lb-ft at 2800 rpm
  • 5.7 l / 350 in³ V8 HO (4bbl) 239 kW / 320 bhp at 5100 rpm, 516 Nm / 380 lb-ft at 3200 rpm
  • 6.6 l / 400 in³ V8 246 kW / 330 bhp at 4800 rpm, 583 Nm / 430 lb-ft at 3300 rpm
  • 6.6 l / 400 in³ V8 HO (4bbl) 250 kW / 335 bhp at 5000 rpm, 583 Nm / 430 lb-ft at 3400 rpm
  • 6.6 l / 400 in³ V8 (Ram Air II) 250 kW / 335 bhp at 5000 rpm, 583 Nm / 430 lb-ft at 3400 rpm
  • 6.6 l / 400 in³ V8 (Ram Air IV) 257 kW / 345 bhp at 5400 rpm, 583 Nm / 430 lb-ft at 3700 rpm

  • 1967 Pontiac Firebird Cabriolet

  • 1968 Pontiac Firebird Coupe

  • 1969 Pontiac Firebird Coupe Front (Gold)

  • 1969 Pontiac Firebird Coupe Side (Gold)

2nd generation (1970–1981)

2nd generation
Pontiac Firebird (1970–1974)

Pontiac Firebird (1970–1974)
Production period: 1970-1981
Body versions : Coupe
Engines:
Petrol engines : 3.8–7.5 liters
(107–272 kW)
Length: 4998 mm
Width: 1864 mm
Height: 1280 mm
Wheelbase : 2748 mm
Empty weight : 1650-1850 kg

The second generation of the "firebird" was redesigned and should contain a touch of Italian design. This generation was only available as a coupé, a convertible was no longer available. The previous clear “Coke Bottle” styling was a “swinging” body style, some elements of which have been retained in the new model. The top of the rear window went almost straight down to the edge of the trunk lid, a shape that has embodied Firebird styling for the longest time. The new design was initially characterized by a large and wide B-pillar , which eliminated the typical C-pillar, until the rear window was enlarged in 1975.

Offered model versions

  • Firebird Base
  • Firebird wit
  • Firebird Formula
  • Firebird Trans Am

Special versions and equipment packages

  • Formula equipment package "W50" (1976–1981)
  • Black and Gold Trans Am Pontiac 50th Anniversary Limited Edition (1976)
  • Black and Gold Trans Am Special Edition (1977–1978, 1980–1981)
  • Sky Bird Esprit equipment package "W60" (1977–1978)
  • Gold Trans Am Special Edition "Y88" (1978)
  • Red Bird Esprit equipment package "W68" (1978–1979)
  • Black Trans Am Special Edition "Y84" (1979)
  • Trans Am 10th Anniversary Edition (1979)
  • Yellow Bird Esprit equipment package "W73" (1980)
  • Trans Am Turbo Indy Pace Car Edition (1980)
  • Trans Am Turbo NASCAR Pace Car Edition (1981)

1970

Pontiac Firebird Trans Am - 2nd generation

The model presented at the beginning of 1970 looked smaller than its predecessor at first glance, although the dimensions remained largely unchanged. The customers were not so satisfied with the new design, which was reflected in the sales figures: only 48,739 units were sold. Of the top model Trans Am Ram Air IV with a 272 kW 6.6-liter engine, only 88 vehicles rolled off the production line. In the model years 1970 and 1971, all Firebirds that were equipped with radios had the antennas "in the glass" in the windshield.

1971

Due to new exhaust gas and mileage requirements, the 7.5 liter engine with 335 bhp was introduced in 1971. The base model now cost over $ 3,000 - the Trans Am was available from $ 4,595. Externally, the 71 models could be distinguished from their predecessors by the oversized rear spoiler for the Formula 400 and the Trans Am. The sales figures remained low at 53,125 units.

1972

In 1972, the Firebird remained largely unchanged - but sales fell to 29,951 units. A not insignificant reason for this was a strike by the UAW ( United Auto Workers ), the American union of car manufacturers, that lasted several weeks . Despite numerous orders, a large number of the vehicles could not be built. There were first considerations to discontinue the model series. The Firebird was built exclusively in Norwood , Ohio between 1972 and 1977 .

1973

In 1973, engine power was no longer decisive for the sale of the cars - the era of the muscle cars seemed to be over. This year the interior of the Firebird was completely redesigned, the body remained almost unchanged. The engine ranged from the 4.1-liter six-cylinder engine with 110 kW / 150 net SAE-HP (hp) to the 7.5-liter eight-cylinder engine with 213 kW / 290 hp. The sales figures rose to 46,313 pieces. In 1973, Trans Ams and Formulas could be equipped with a handling package with Firestone steel belt radial tires for an additional $ 59 without a space-saving spare wheel, which cost an additional $ 79. The tires were the size GR70-15 on 7-inch rims.

1974

1974 Pontiac Firebird, modified front section

In 1974 the body shape was revised. The front end has been aerodynamically improved, which was approved by customers. 73,729 vehicles were built. The radial tires became part of the Trans Am.

1975

Further changes followed in 1975: A new, larger rear window, which made the B-pillar significantly narrower, and additional headlights built into the front grille characterized this model. Radial tires were the standard tires for all Firebirds. The engine output was significantly reduced - the 7.5-liter engine still available had only 147 kW (200 hp). The base model had a 4.1 liter engine with 74 kW (100 hp) and cost $ 3713. The Firebird was yet another success: 84,063 copies were built.

1976

For the 200th anniversary of the US declaration of independence , the exterior of the Firebird was changed again. 110,775 vehicles were built, but only 110 of the top-of-the-range Trans Am with the 7.5 liter 200 hp engine.

1977

In 1977 the front section of the Firebird was changed again: two rectangular headlights were integrated into the radiator grille. A new range of engines was introduced. All of the power units were now standard Buick , Chevrolet , Oldsmobile, and Pontiac engines . The top engine was the 6.6 liter Pontiac engine with 147 kW (200 hp). With 155,735 vehicles built, the new model was a complete success. That year, the film A Boiled Rascal was also released , which made this generation even more popular.

1978

After the previous year's success, the models for 1978 were hardly changed, and the number of 187,294 vehicles sold confirmed this decision. The starting price was $ 4,593. Pontiac introduced the "WS6 Special Performance Package" for the Trans Am. It cost $ 324 extra and replaced the 15 × 7-inch wheels with 15 × 8-inch aluminum wheels in a "snowflake" design with wider tires and a stronger rear stabilizer .

1979

The next fundamental redesign of the front end took place in 1979. Pontiac left the previous grille. The rectangular headlights were separated by a clear plastic bar.

The four headlights were separately embedded in the grill panels. The engine range ranged from the 3.8-liter with 107 kW (145 hp) to the 6.6-liter engine with 162 kW (220 hp), this version was only available with a 4-speed manual transmission and is known as the Z- Code in the VIN ( vehicle identification number ) recognizable. With 211,453 vehicles built, the 1979 Firebird became the most successful model in the entire series. The WS6 package received 1,979 four-wheel disc brakes with brake booster , an option that increased the price of the package to 434 dollars. For $ 150, Trans Ams and Formulas buyers could get the L-37 301-cubic-inch V8 engine and a partially locking differential , option code J-65.

  • Pontiac Firebird (1977-1979)

  • Rear view

  • 1980 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am (Gold)

1980

In 1980, the number of vehicles sold fell to 10,340 units, about half the number of the previous year, although the appearance had not changed. However, the maximum power available was only a 5-liter engine with 110 kW (150 hp) or a 4.9-liter turbo engine with 154 kW (210 hp). The starting price was just under $ 6,000.

1981

For 1981 the Firebird also remained largely unchanged - the third model generation was about to go on sale. Even the engine remained the same. This year 70,889 units were built.

3rd generation (1982–1992)

Engines

  • 1982–1983: LU5 5.0 l V8, 121–128 kW (165–175 hp)
  • 1982–1984: LC1 2.8 l V6, 75–78 kW (102–107 hp)
  • 1982–1985: LQ8 2.5 l R4, 65–68 kW (88–92 hp)
  • 1982–1987: LG4 5.0 l V8, 107–125 kW (145–170 hp)
  • 1983–1984: LL1 2.8 l V6, 92 kW (125 PS; only 1 copy in Germany with 84 kW)
  • 1983–1986: L69 5.0 l V8, 140 kW (190 hp)
  • 1985–1989: LB8 2.8 l V6, 100 kW (135 hp)
  • 1985–1992: LB9 5.0 l V8, 140–169 kW (190–230 hp)
  • 1987–1992: L98 5.7 l V8, 165–181 kW (225–248 hp)
  • 1988–1992: L03 5.0 l V8, 125 kW (170 hp)
  • 1989: LC2 3.8 l V6, 184 kW (250 hp)
  • 1990–1992: LH0 3.1 l V6, 103 kW (140 PS)
3rd generation
Pontiac Firebird S / E Coupé (1982-1983)

Pontiac Firebird S / E Coupé (1982-1983)
Production period: 1982-1992
Body versions : Coupé , convertible
Engines:
Petrol engines : 2.5-5.7 liters
(67-182 kW)
Length: 4956 mm
Width: 1839 mm
Height: 1262 mm
Wheelbase : 2565 mm
Empty weight : 1299-1663 kg

1982

In the spring of 1982 the 3rd generation of the F-Body came on the market. The now self-supporting body with a large glass tailgate was around 100 kg lighter, the rear leaf springs were replaced by coil springs and a modified MacPherson strut suspension with triangular wishbones was used at the front .

The Firebird was based on a design by Roger Huget , which dates back to 1976. The flush aerodynamic wedge shape achieved a c w value of 0.33. The pop-up headlights made their contribution. The fixed headlights Chevrolet Camaro lagged behind the Pontiac at 0.37. Instead of enclosing the Pontiac emblem in the front apron as in previous generations, its side contours were incorporated into the shape of the bonnet as a fold and curvature. This contour was accentuated by side slits in the bumper, which also provided space for the front indicators and the Pontiac logo. The front black ventilation inlets were just a closed decorative element. The dashboard and the center console were based on the instruments of the Concorde and Learjet . In addition to the usual spoilers, air outlets and wheels with a larger rim diameter, the Trans Am also received an asymmetrical scoop, as found on the hood of the 1980s and 1981 Trans Am Turbo. Instead of a light bar for the boost pressure, however, a grille with an electrically controlled opening for additional intake air was attached. From that year there were no more engines from Pontiac. The engines ranged from the 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 67 kW to the 5-liter eight-cylinder with 121 kW (165 hp). The starting price rose to $ 7,996. A total of 116,362 vehicles were built.

For this first model year of the new body, Pontiac provided the television series Knight Rider with four black Trans Ams and a short appearance by “Firebird Girl” Natalie Carroll. In order to preserve the exterior of the futuristic miracle car KITT , the elements of the front apron have been more pronounced in a new variant. The side slots and the taillights were made flush with the body with tinted covers and a slot with a red running light was inserted between the now hidden indicators. The worldwide success of the series helped this generation of Firebirds to gain additional fame outside of the USA.

1983

The 1983 model year started barely changed and 74,884 vehicles were built.

1984

In 1984 customers got more engine power for their money again, the 5-liter Trans-Am had 140 kW (190 hp), the $ 8,349 base model of the Firebird had 125 hp. With this engine range, Pontiac sold 128,304 vehicles.

On the Trans Am, the front decorative air inlets have been swapped for smooth inserts and Trans-Am engraving. As an extra, a new all-round spoiler on the lower edges was available. As with several other Pontiac vehicles this year, new wheels with a 5-spoke design branching off to the side and a Pontiac engraving were available. For the WS6 option 15 "x 7" with a concave wheel rim and two-tone paint in gold and anthracite. In 1984 there was also a Firebird study as a station wagon, but it was not built in series.

1985

In the Trans Am, the body has been modified in details such as the front and rear sections to reduce air resistance , as have details in the interior. The bonnet lost the asymmetrical hood and got four ventilation openings. This design then also determined the appearance of the following models. The standard model received black bumper protection strips on all four vehicle edges. 95,880 vehicles were sold. In this model year, the weakest engine a Firebird ever had was offered, the LQ9 2.5-liter in-line four-cylinder engine with 65 kW (88 hp).

1989 Pontiac Firebird Turbo Trans Am Convertible

1987

In 1987 Pontiac brought the convertible version of the third generation Firebird onto the market. However, the model range was limited - there was only the standard model from $ 10,359 and the Trans Am from $ 13,259. The four-cylinder engine was canceled. The standard model was still offered as the Formula model with a 5.0-liter engine, which received the bonnet of the Trans Am from model year 1982-1984, but its opening was closed and its scoop therefore only as a place for the sticker with information about the engine capacity and Injection system served. This means that there is no internal connection to the air filter. A total of 88,587 vehicles were built.

In 1987, the Trans Am GTA with the 5.7 liter engine (225 hp) was built for the first time. GTA stands for "Gran Turismo Americano" and was until then the sportiest and most powerful Trans Am. At that time General Motors advertised the new GTA variant with the slogan: "Trans Am GTA - 5.7 thundering liters of a legendary, ultra-serious sports coupé." The Pontiac developers simply put all the optional equipment available in the Firebird Coupé were. Such equipment could also be ordered individually for a Trans Am or Firebird Formula, with the exception of three decisive extras reserved only for the GTA: special sports seats with electrically adjustable backrest bulges and lumbar support , the optional digital LCD display instruments and gold-colored, 16-inch Light alloy wheels in BBS look. Years later, the latter was only available in black as a standard for the normal Trans AM and as a little-known option for the Formula.

The rest of the standard GTA details were also available individually as special equipment in the USA: the 5.7-liter V8 (only for Firebird Formula), limited-slip differential and disc brakes for the rear rigid axle, an oil cooler and the WS6 performance chassis harder springs, thick stabilizers, gas pressure shock absorbers and Goodyear -Eagle- "Gatorbacks" tires of size 245/50 VR 16 on eight-inch wide alloy wheels. In 1987, these were relatively very wide tires for a series vehicle in Germany too; a BMW 635 CSi had comparatively narrow 205 / 70-14 tires for comparison. The 5.7 liter engine and thus the GTA was only available with a four-speed automatic. The removable T-Roof halves did not initially exist either.

The US trade press gave consistently positive reviews of the Trans Am GTA.

For example, Street Machine magazine wrote : “The perfect“ Street Machine ”has not yet been built, but the Trans Am GTA is pretty close. The force begins softly but lastingly. The GTA accelerates almost as fast as a Corvette. The handling is also Corvette-like - at a much lower price. "

Among other things, the straightforward design, which is more oriented towards European taste, drew the US auto journalists under its spell.

The Superstock & Illustrated Magazine wrote: " The Pontiac Firebird Trans AM GTA America's most attractive Musclecar - inside and out. "

And the specialist magazine Performance Cars stated: “ Put a red Firebird, especially the GTA, in front of a car enthusiast, and even the most arrogant will have to admit: It's damn exciting. "

Another reason for the excitement was the GTA's relatively good performance. The Coupé accelerated from 0 to 60 miles (96 km / h) in 6.8 seconds and reached a top speed of over 225 km / h. The relatively low car weight (1585 kilograms), the powerful engine and, above all, the good traction made these respectable data possible - especially in direct comparison with the significantly weaker Trans Am predecessors.

1988

1988 Pontiac Banshee IV design study that influenced the last years of the 3rd and first years of the 4th generation. To the right of it the 1984 study as a station wagon

In 1988 the 86 mph speedometer (138 km / h ) was replaced by a 120 mph speedometer (193 km / h). The Firebird also received new wheels. The engines ranged from the 2.8-liter engine with 99 kW (135 hp) to the 5.7-liter engine with 165 kW (225 hp). A total of 62,455 vehicles were built.

1989

The vehicle that followed in 1989 remained practically unchanged. Sales fell to 64,404 copies. The 1989 Indianapolis 500 Pace Car Trans Am received a Buick engine on the 20th anniversary of its creation. It was the turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 from the Buick Grand National and Buick GNX. It made 245 hp. This made the pace car the fastest Firebird ever sold at the time. Pontiac only built 1500 copies, each of which was white with a brown interior.

1990

The Firebird did not experience any changes in 1990 either, the number of units continued to drop to just 20,532 vehicles. The revised Firebird followed in mid-1990 with its typical front section, which was retained until the end of 1992. The range of engines ranged from the 3.1-liter engine with 103 kW (140 hp) to the 5.7-liter engine with 182 kW (247 hp) in the Trans Am GTA . The Pontiac Firebird received its first airbag in 1990 . Back then, the technology was still quite bulky, and Pontiac had to design a new steering column and steering wheel with side-mounted horn buttons. GM owned Lotus at the time , and the Firebird's new airbag-equipped steering wheel also appeared in the Lotus Esprit .

1991

The 1991 model was built in 50,454 copies. Eight formulas with the factory option B4U, a homophone for “Before you”, English for “Before you”. This conversion, limited to 250 pieces, was carried out by SLP (the abbreviation stands for Street Legal Performance) and marketed as Formula Firehawk. Its main features were a 5.7 liter engine with 261 kW / 355 hp at 5500 rpm and 529 Nm / 390 lb-ft at 4400 rpm with a (higher) speed limit at 6000 rpm. A six-speed manual transmission from ZF , 275/40 / R17 Firestone Firehawk tires, 1 "shorter progressive suspension springs from Eibach and better gas pressure dampers. Optionally, there were Brembo brake calipers with four pistons at the front similar to those of the Ferrari F40 , and matching perforated 13" brake discs , Recaro seats with 5-point belts, exchange of the rear seat for a roll bar and an aluminum hood.

1992

Hardly changed, the 1992 vintage followed as the last representative of the third generation with sales of 25,180 vehicles. Of the remaining 17 Firehawks, two were built from aluminum with a 6.3 liter engine. The front springs of the 1989 Turbo TA were used for height compensation.

  • Trans Am GTA (1989)

  • Pontiac Firebird Coupé with the new front from the end of 1990 and the old spoiler option D80

  • Pontiac Firebird Coupé with SAP and the spoiler typical for 1991–1992 (wheels not original)

  • Engine compartment of the Turbo TA with the intake pipe enlarged by the owner with a matching LMM from the LS1 as well as a larger but true to the original air filter

  • Engine compartment of a 3rd generation Firehawk with the typical two air filter boxes

4th generation (1993-2002)

Engines

  • 1993–1995: L32 3.4 l V6, 109 kW (148 hp)
  • 1995–2002: L36 3.8 l V6, 144 kW (196 hp)
  • 1993–1997: LT1 5.7 l V8, 198–205 kW (269–279 hp)
  • 1998–2002: LS1 5.7 l V8, 224–242 kW (305–329 hp)
4th generation
Pontiac Firebird Coupé (1993-1998)

Pontiac Firebird Coupé (1993-1998)
Production period: 1993-2002
Body versions : Coupé , convertible
Engines:
Petrol engines : 3.4-5.7 liters
(109-242 kW)
Length: 4968-5004 mm
Width: 1892 mm
Height: 1300-1321 mm
Wheelbase : 2568 mm
Empty weight : 1490-1710 kg

1993

Production of the fourth and final generation of the Pontiac Firebird began in early 1993.

The body was now much more rounded and modern. The only engines available in this model year were the 3.4-liter V6 engine with 109 kW (148 hp) and the Trans-Am with a 5.7-liter V8 engine with 198 kW (269 hp). In the USA, the same engine developed 205 kW (278 hp), which was achieved through a different exhaust system. This LT1 engine came from the Corvette C4 , for which it was given an official 220 kW (300 hp). A convertible version was initially not available. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and airbags were standard. Prices started at $ 14,485 in the US. Only 14,112 vehicles were built that year.

1994

For 1994 the Firebird remained practically unchanged, and a convertible was now also available. Of the total of 45,782 vehicles built, 805 were of the open version.

1995

The following model year did not bring any major changes either; In 1995 50,986 vehicles were built.

1996

In 1996 there was again more engine power: the smaller engine with 3.4 liter displacement was discontinued; the newly offered 3.8-liter V6 developed 144 kW (196 hp) and the 5.7-liter V8 now 210 kW (286 hp). 30,937 copies were built.

1997

For the 1997 model year, the Firebird remained largely unchanged.

1998

In mid-1998 the Firebird received a facelift; the most noticeable features were, among other things, a new front section and new rear lights. In the Trans Am version the Firebird had more power; 224 kW (305 PS) for the 5.7-liter V8, and in conjunction with the so-called "WS 6 Ram Air Package" the engine even officially developed 235 kW (320 PS). This "LS1 engine" came from the Corvette C5 ; there, however, an output of 257 kW (350 hp) was specified. Test results from the magazine Hot Rod from May 1998 showed, however, that the LS1 in the F-Body (with official 305 HP) has absolutely the same performance as the Y-Body LS1 of the Corvette C5 (with official 350 HP).

1999

In 1999 there was again a special edition limited to 1500 pieces for the 30th anniversary of the Firebird. The convertible of the WS 6 Ram Air was limited to 500 pieces. In the color black and exclusively with manual transmission, this WS6 was only built 193 times and is now a rarity.

2001

In 2001 there was again a special model; the Pontiac Firebird Formula WS6 Ram Air with the 5.7 liter V8 engine and an output of 242 kW (329 PS). This model was officially the most powerful Pontiac Firebird Trans-Am that was ever built in series.

2002

At the end of production of the fourth model generation in the summer of 2002, the special models of the "Collector's Edition" (CE) were released. They were mainly recognizable by the yellow paintwork and the vinyl stickers on the front, side and rear, the convertible had a black hood.

In September, GM finally stopped production of the Firebird.

  • Pontiac Firebird Convertible (1998-2002)

  • Pontiac Firebird Coupé (1998–2002), here special model "30th Anniversary Trans Am"

New Trans Am

In 2012, General Motors signed a license agreement with Trans Am Depot of Tallahassee, Florida for the use of the Trans Am name and Pontiac logos in custom versions of the new Trans Am. As part of this agreement, Trans Am Depot takes new Chevrolet Camaros , dismantles them down to their basic components and uses them to manufacture vehicles that look like a modern Trans Am. They manufacture them in the versions of the 6T9 version Trans Am , 6T9 Goat ("GTO"), 7T7 Trans Am and the limited edition Hurst Trans Am .

On March 26, 2017, the Bandit Edition Trans Am was unveiled at the New York International Auto Show . Built by Trans Am Depot, only 77 were made, each signed by Burt Reynolds . The drive is a 455 cubic inch (7.5 L) direct injection version of the current Generation V LT1 V8 engine from General Motors, which has a 2.3 liter (140.4 in 3 ) Magnuson compressor with a boost pressure of 0.97 bar (14 psi) and thus develops an output of 1000 hp (746 kW) and a torque of 1046 lb-ft (1418 Nm).

Acceleration values, top speeds, quarter mile

3rd generation:

  • 2.5 l, LQ8: 0-100 km / h: 13.7 s
  • 3.1 l, LH0: 0-100 km / h: 9.0 s; V max : 180 km / h (governed); Quarter mile 16.6–17.9 s
  • 5.7 l, L98: 0-100 km / h: 6.1 s; V max : 235 km / h; Quarter mile 14.5–15 s

4th generation:

  • 5.7 l, LS1: 0-100 km / h: 5.0 s; V max : 260 km / h; Quarter mile 12.9–13.9 s

Others

A replica by KITT with the bonnet with asymmetrical scoop typical of early Trans Ams and Formulas
View into the cockpit of a KITT replica
  • A Pontiac Trans Am , built in 1977, was seen in the movie Ein auskochtes Schlitzohr with Burt Reynolds as a bandit and other films in the series.
  • A 1982 Pontiac Trans Am starred as KITT in the television series Knight Rider alongside David Hasselhoff . In the 4th episode, Sally Field and Bandit are referred to without naming their vehicles.
  • Mark Wahlberg drove a yellow third generation Pontiac Firebird in the movie The Big Hit .
  • A red 1970 Pontiac Firebird plays a role in the American Beauty movie .
  • A Pontiac Firebird in the Esprit version was an integral part of the Detective Rockford series - a call is enough , but it was equipped with a Trans Am unit so that the vehicle could also perform stunts. The show's lead actor, James Garner , opted for the Esprit rather than the Trans Am, as he thought the model was a better fit for the role of Jim Rockford, who was always tight at the end of the month.
  • Niobe drove a 1967 Pontiac Firebird in the movie Matrix Reloaded .
  • John Wayne drove a green 1973 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am in the 1974 movie McQ Strikes .
  • Officer Frank Murphy drove a 1981 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am Turbo in the film The Flying Eye - contrary to a statement made in the film.
  • James Franco drove a red second-generation Pontiac Trans Am in the series Fully missed, fully in life .
  • In the 1976 film Cannonball , David Carradine drove a second generation red Trans Am .
  • Heather Thomas drove a white 1984 Pontiac Firebird in the A Colt just in case .
  • Chuck Norris drove a red 1973 Pontiac Firebird in The Giant from 1981.
  • A 1973 Pontiac Firebird and a 1977 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am were used in A Turbo Cleans Up Highway from 1980.
  • A tuned 1974 Pontiac Trans Am is an escape vehicle of the Driver in the film of the same name.
  • A black 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am drove Steve McQueen as a rental car in the movie Each head has its price from the 1979th
  • A 1407 hp street-legal Pontiac Firebird Trans Am from the Norwegian Pål Arvid Blytt is one of the fastest cars in the world. With a top speed of 407.134 km / h measured in October 2008, it holds the European record for road vehicles.
  • A gold-colored 1978 Firebird Trans Am including the cliché driver with a mullet-Oliba appears in the music video for the song Tik Tok by the singer Ke $ ha .
  • Sylvester Stallone bought a black 1979 Firebird Trans Am in Rocky 2 .
  • In season 2, episodes 19 and 21, of the US reality soap Fast N 'Loud on the Discovery Channel station , two of the first "zero series" Firebirds to be produced are being restored.

Web links

Commons : Pontiac Firebird  - collection of images, videos and audio files

swell

  • Tad Burness: American Car Spotter's Guide 1966–1980. Motorbooks International, ISBN 978-0-87938-102-8 (English).

Remarks

  1. ↑ The spokes of the wheels in "Snowflake" design are reminiscent of the enlarged representation of an ice crystal on a snowflake.

Individual evidence

  1. ^ MCG: Introducing the 1967 Pontiac Firebird. In: Mac's Motor City Garage. March 17, 2018, accessed June 23, 2020 (American English).
  2. ↑ THE EDITORS OF PUBLICATIONS INTERNATIONAL, LTD: Introduction to the 1960s Pontiac Firebird. In: musclecars.howstuffworks.com. December 13, 2007, accessed June 22, 2020 .
  3. ↑ THE EDITORS OF PUBLICATIONS INTERNATIONAL, LTD .: Introduction to the 1960s Pontiac Firebird. December 13, 2007, accessed June 23, 2020 .
  4. ↑ a b Firebird First Generation Model Information. www.conceptcarz.com, accessed on June 23, 2020 (English).
  5. ↑ a b c Pontiac Firebird. In: Muscle Car Club. March 30, 2015. Accessed June 24, 2020 (American English).
  6. ↑ 1969 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am. January 15, 2007, accessed June 24, 2020 .
  7. ↑ a b Sessler, Peter C., 1950-: Firebird red book . Motorbooks International Publishers & Wholesalers, 1992, ISBN 0-87938-568-5 ( worldcat.org [accessed June 26, 2020]).
  8. ↑ Hitman's Pontiac Trans Am Site - Special Edition. September 25, 2010, accessed June 26, 2020 .
  9. ↑ a b c d 25 Firebird facts every enthusiast should know. In: Hagerty Media. March 22, 2019, accessed July 1, 2020 (American English).
  10. ↑ a b c Norman Gocke: Oldtimer Markt: Automobil KITT , Germany, August 2020. p. 39
  11. ↑ a b Richard Carlyon : Firebird. Winchmore Publishing Services Ltd, USA 1984, ISBN 978-0831787998
  12. ↑ Flying High | Performance & Hot Rod Business. July 22, 2015, accessed June 24, 2020 .
  13. ^ Jake Lingeman: GTO Judge poised for a comeback. June 24, 2013. Retrieved June 24, 2020 (American English).
  14. ↑ Flying High | Performance & Hot Rod Business. July 22, 2015, accessed June 24, 2020 .
  15. ↑ 2016 at 12: 25a ET: Trans Am Bandit is back and better than ever, and Burt Reynolds is behind it. March 27, 2016, accessed June 24, 2020 (American English).
  16. ↑ 1000 HP 2017 Trans Am 455 Sper Duty. Motortrend, April 13, 2017, accessed June 24, 2020 .