![]() ![]() These 1998 to 2002 models are sometimes referred to as "fifth generation" Firebirds. In 1998, the Firebird received a new front fascia (now with four pop-up headlights the Camaro's front end was also switched, to two oval headlamps) and other modifications, the most significant of which was the Corvette small block V8 engine known as the LS1. The LT1's hp rating had been raised to 285 thanks to a new dual cat exhaust system.Īs before, the Camaro kept the exposed headlights and the Firebird its pop-up units, with some minor changes. 1996 and later models had a 200 hp 3.8 L V6 as the base engine. The LT1 was very similar to the one in the Corvette C4, only with 2 bolt mains, and a more restrictive intake/exhaust system. In 1993-1995 (1995 non-California cars) Firebirds received a 3.4 L V6 with 160 hp, or a 5.7 L 275 hp LT1 V8. The fourth generation Firebird continued the previous generation's aerodynamic formula, but while a desirable sports car, it was victim to falling sales. While primarily Pontiac-powered until 1981, Firebirds were built with several different engines from nearly every GM division. The vehicles were, for the most part, powered by various V8 motors of different GM divisions. ![]() 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 car shared the same General Motors "F-Body" platform as the Chevrolet Camaro, also introduced in 1967. Available in both coupé and convertible body styles, the Firebird was characterized by its aggressive styling and affordable muscle car performance. Perhaps we will see a revitalization of the Firebird if Pontiac is ever brought back from the dead or Chevy decides to start making real cars again, but for now, all we can do is hope.The Pontiac Firebird was a sporty compact car built by the Pontiac Motor Division of General Motors and was manufactured from 1967 until 2002. But, unfortunately, GM canceled the production of the Camaro and Firebird in 2002, and Pontiac sadly closed its doors in 2008. The Pontiac Firebird has lived an exciting life filled with the fast driving, high public interest, and silver screen features galore. Under the hood sat the glorious LS1 V8 engine, an incredibly over-engineered platform that is still used in all sorts of builds to this day. Pontiac gave the front end a beautiful feminine fascia and a couple of pop-up headlights, which heavily resembled a set of cat-like eyelids. This final redesign of the Firebird was not a new generation but followed a similar blending strategy that the third-gen had. Ladies and Gentlemen, we present the 1998 production year of the Pontiac Firebird, Firebird Formula, and Firebird Trans Am. 1993 saw the introduction of a smoother-designed vehicle which seemed to be the perfect competitor to the Ford Mustang but needed some more work under the hood. In addition, Pontiac used an entirely different design language for these still potent pony cars with the introduction of the pop-up headlights, which would prove to be a great asset to the proceeding generation.įinally, we have the fourth generation, which sadly saw the cancellation of these beautiful cars just when they started getting good again. The third generation was a very confusing time for these cars as the engine options were significantly restricted, and the style seemed to blend into the next generation towards the end. This was primarily due to the success of "Smokey And The Bandit," which had automotive enthusiasts across the nation ranting and raving about their beloved T/A. Eventually, Government safety regulations would put the Firebird in an odd state during its development, followed by 1977-1981, which could be considered the most popular design in the Firebird, mainly the Trans Am's history. This time saw a wholly different and sleeker body accompanying the beautiful open grille and large headlight housing. Not much changed throughout the first generation apart from the addition of the Trans Am package in 1969.ġ970 was a very different year for all automotive manufacturers, but the Firebird was significantly affected by the new wants of the American automotive consumer. Of course, Pontiac was constantly struggling to be GM's performance brand, which helped their case. ![]() People were immediately blown away by the powerful Pontiac engine line-up and more luxurious features than the Camaro. It all started in 1967 as Pontiacs response to the Ford Mustang and the sister car of the Chevrolet Camaro. The Pontiac Firebird is an American pony car whose legacy for high-performance engine options and striking style will live on in American history for centuries as one of the nation's most significant domestic enthusiast cars. GM might have left the Pontiac Firebird behind, but history hasn't. ![]()
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