Pontiac – Vintage Car Collector

1977 Pontiac Trans AM: The fiery automobile

Posted on June 13, 2023June 13, 2023 by Library VCC

Many had seen the Trans AM in the movies, admired its sportiness, and even dreamed of it, but most didn’t know that the model was created because of the fast-growing popularity of the pony car market, which emerged in 1964 through the Ford Mustang.

Source: Mecum Auctions

From 1962 to 1969 was stellar for Pontiac. During this period, the company created such iconic vehicles as the compact Pontiac Tempest, the first American muscle car, the Pontiac GTO, the Firebird pony car with the Trans AM modification, and the Grand Prix, a mid-size luxury coupe. The flagship model of the pony car series, named Trans Am, had made the wildest dreams of automotive enthusiasts come true. The automobile, with a huge phoenix on the hood, became a symbol of American supercars of the 70s. The last model of the second generation of the series, released in 1978, was equipped with two versions of the V8 engine with a volume of 6.5 and exclusive 6.6 liters. Unfortunately, the fuel crisis of the early 70s put an end to these powerful and fast automobiles, although this mighty automobile was produced in 1981.

The origins

Source: American Dream Machines

The creation of the Pontiac Trans Am can be traced back to the mid-1960s when Pontiac, a division of General Motors, aimed to capitalize on the growing popularity of muscle cars in the American automotive market. The Trans Am was developed as a high-performance version of the Pontiac Firebird, which itself was introduced as a direct competitor to the Ford Mustang. In 1967, the Pontiac Firebird was unveiled to the public as a 1968 model-year car. It was available in various trims and engine options, but it wasn’t until a few years later that the iconic Trans Am model came into existence. The birth of the Trans Am can be attributed to a group of Pontiac engineers and designers led by John Z. DeLorean, who recognized the need to create a more powerful and aggressive version of the Firebird. DeLorean, along with his team, aimed to establish the Trans Am as a performance-oriented muscle car that would compete with other renowned models in the market. The first Pontiac Trans Am was introduced as a trim option for the Firebird in 1969. It featured a distinctive and bold appearance, with a prominent front grille, hood scoops, and a rear spoiler. The Trans Am was equipped with a range of powerful V8 engines, providing impressive performance on the road. One of the most significant years in the history of the Trans Am was 1970 when Pontiac introduced the second-generation model. This redesign brought notable changes to the car’s exterior and interior, giving it a more aerodynamic and aggressive look. The Trans Am became even more popular, thanks to its association with the iconic “Screaming Chicken” decal on the hood. Over the years, Pontiac continued to refine and improve the Trans Am, incorporating advancements in technology and design. The Trans Am gained further fame and recognition through its appearances in popular culture, including its prominent role in the 1977 film “Smokey and the Bandit.”

The 1977 model year

Source: Barrett-Jackson

The 1977 release received noticeable changes, particularly the new bigger front bumper which increased the car mass significantly. This was done according to the safety regulations, to extinguish the blow in the event of an accident and other changes. In 1977, the designers replaced the single round headlights with twin rectangular ones, combined with a two-halves grille. The new release inherited body-color integrated plastic bumpers, a panoramic rear window, and taillights covered with grilles from the previous models. The engine part received serious updates. The 6.6-liter V8 400 developing 180 hp in package L78 or 200 hp in the W72 package, was installed only on the Trans Am modification, complete with a “shaker” air intake with the inscription “T/A 6.6”. The W72 version differed from the L78 with chrome valve covers. In California and the highlands, a 6.6-liter Oldsmobile V8 403 (L80) with 185 hp was used instead of the V8 400. As before, this modification was equipped with a reinforced suspension, front disc brakes, front and rear spoilers, a “firebird” image on the hood, a sports steering wheel, and an anodized aluminum instrument panel. Sales of Trans AM in 1977 reached 68745 automobiles. Moreover, the most popular of the entire series was the Trans Am Special Edition produced from 1977 to 1978. It was painted black with gold accents or gold with black accents.

Did you know?

Source: Mecum Auctions

Hollywood movies would not be the same without iconic American vehicles. The famous action comedy “Smokey and the Bandit” featured a 1977 black and gold Pontiac Trans Am. The protagonist arranged amazing races on the iconic pony car, trying to get rid of the police for delivering beer from Texas to Georgia. During the filming, five automobiles were crushed, and only one remained on the move, assembled from the spare parts of its “broken comrades”.

1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: The Legend

Posted on May 1, 2023May 1, 2023 by Library VCC

The first-generation Pontiac Firebird was able to acquire the identity only in the second generation which according to the GM chief designer Bill Mitchell, it was lacking from the beginning. Due to problems with the production line, the second generation went on sale with a six-month delay, on February 26, 1970.

Source: Road & Track

The Firebird was not only the star of the roads but also of films that excited the imagination of youth and reckless folks striving for speed. They admired its sporty forms and unbridled character, dreaming to have it one day. In the course of the model’s evolution, it had several modifications, some of which today are the most sought-after trophy of any classic car collector. Trans Am became one of those modifications that fans around the world cherished. It received the most powerful engines and the fanciest appearance in the Pontiac lineup.

The origins

Source: Wallpaper Flare

Firebird appeared in the brand’s line for a reason. The fast development of the pony car market, and the resounding success of the Ford Mustang, disturbed GM bosses. By the time the first generation Firebird entered the market in 1967, the trendsetter Mustang had already undergone its first restyling. In the three years since the introduction of the Ford “stallion” and the emergence of the “pony-car” segment (characterized by small, sporty, inexpensive, but powerful vehicles), all American automakers rushed to make the same type of vehicles. The competitiveness of each depended on quality, reliability, comfort, various “useful” options, and, of course, prices. To reduce the cost of development and, as a result, the selling price of the automobile, many resorted to the unification of the main components for models of different brands that were part of the brands. So, Pontiac Firebird received one platform with the Chevrolet Camaro. However, these two models were still different. The main external distinguishing feature was a chrome-plated bumper, made as a separate element in the first one, and chrome-plated “chubby lips” around the radiator grille in the second one. In addition, unlike the Chevrolet, the Pontiac’s twin-head optics consisted of headlights of the same size. It was available in 5 engine options: a 3.8-liter inline 6-cylinder equipped with a 1-chamber carburetor, with a capacity of 165 hp, a 3.8-liter in-line “six” equipped with a 4-chamber carburetor, and a modified camshaft, with a capacity of 215 hp (the Sprint modification), a 5.3-liter V8 equipped with a 2-barrel carburetor, 250 hp, the same 5.3-liter V8 equipped with a 4-barrel carburetor, 285 hp, a 6.6-liter V8 with a power 325 hp — for GTO.

The 1979 model year

Source: Supercars.net

A 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am with a 6480 cm³ V8 engine and 4-speed transmission was a real high-speed sensation of the 70s. The V-shaped 8-cylinder engine and 4-speed gearbox were perfectly matched, and the resonating sound in the muffler indicated the unbridled character of this sports car. It had a unique control system and stood out from other American vehicles of the same period. The model’s brakes also deserved special attention: it was able to stop as quickly as it accelerated, thanks to disc brakes on all four wheels installed in 1979. All automobiles of this series, released for the 10th anniversary, had a silver interior. Produced for as long as 12 years, the second generation Trans Am featured a unibody structure with independent front and rear subframes, plus an independent front wishbone suspension with coil springs and a leaf-sprung live rear axle. In 1979, the Trans Am’s standard engine was a 185 hp Oldsmobile 6528 cm³ V8, the “native” 220 hp Pontiac 400 V8 was optional. In 1979, the company released the 403 automobiles with an automatic transmission and the 400 with a 4-speed manual. Only thorough analyses could determine which engine was in the vehicle. However, in the case of the automatic transmission, the air intake on the hood had “6.6 liters” writing.

Did you know?

Source: WallpaperUp

The famous “screaming eagle” decal on the hood was popular in the late 70s and was installed on the 1979 model. In addition, the four headlights were located in four separate square sockets, and for the first time, customers could choose the option of installing halogen lamps.

1960 Pontiac Catalina: “Wide Track Tiger”

Posted on May 1, 2023May 1, 2023 by Library VCC

Built on the B-body platform, the Catalina became a separate full-size model in 1959, replacing the junior Chieftain series. Before that (1950-1958), all Pontiac cars with a hardtop body were known as Catalina.

Source: Mecum Auctions

Despite being democratic and affordable, Catalina was not a “cheap” vehicle at all. In many ways, it was better and more comfortable than competitors from Chevrolet, Buick, or Oldsmobile. At the same time, its price was lower than the vehicles of the aforementioned brands. For example, a Pontiac automobile with a 6.5-liter engine cost about the same as a Chevrolet automobile with a 4.6-liter engine. Many auto experts assured that Pontiac even had a better gearbox than its competitors. It was fast, comfortable, and stylish enough to meet the expectations of the American middle class. Overall, five generations of this vehicle left the assembly line from 1959 to 1981.

The origins

Source: SuperSport Classics

The brand was releasing hardtop body (coupe or sedan without B-pillars) vehicles under the name “Catalina” from 1950 to 1958. In 1959, it was decided to make it a separate full-size automobile, the most democratic in the entire Pontiac line. The model replaced the Chieftain series and was based on the B-body with a 122″ (3099 mm) wheelbase. At the same time, the more expensive series were released under the Star Chief and Bonneville series with a 124″ wheelbase. This affordable automobile left the assembly line in six body types: 2-door Sport Sedan, 2-door Sport Coupe, 4-door Sedan, 4-door Vista Sedan, convertible, and 5-door Safari station wagon – in 6-seater or 9-seater versions. Being the most affordable model in the Pontiac lineup didn’t make it the “cheap” automobile. In terms of trim and equipment, it was superior to the Chevrolet Impala and was almost on par with such iconic automobiles as the Buick LeSabre and Oldsmobile 88. The basic vehicle received a 6.4-liter V8 389 engine and 3-speed manual transmission, a 2-chamber carburetor, developing 245 hp, or with 4-speed Hydramatic automatic transmission, developing 280 hp. The list of options included alternative versions of this 215 hp engine (for operation on low-octane gasoline), 260/300 hp (with a 4-barrel carburetor), and 315 hp (with three 2-barrel carburetors). The last two modifications were available in a special version of the “420-A” for NASCAR, with a capacity of 330 and 345 hp respectively. In 1960, the power of all engines was increased by 3 hp. The model became extremely popular among middle-class Americans. In total 231,561 vehicles in 1959 and 175532 in 1960 were sold. The vehicle had a special edition as well. “Pink Lady” was made in a single copy by a special order for the former GM Vice President of Design Harley Earl’s wife.

The 1960 model year

Source: Barrett-Jackson

The 1960 Catalina was a 2-door model with soft seats, hydro-magnetic automatic transmission, power steering, and leather interior. Standard amenities included: carpeting, an illuminated glove compartment, a trunk, a snack bar, an autonomous coolant defroster, heated seats, and vinyl interior trim. For the extra payment, the buyer could add chrome wheel covers, chrome pedals, a soft steering wheel, etc. In 1960, the Catalina received minor body changes, such as a new grille with horizontal lines (replaced a year later with a double one) and rounded headlights. For the first time, a portable “Sportable Transistor” radio receiver was included in the options list, which could be used both in the vehicle and outside it. This vehicle had a sporty character, which other American cars of the time were lacking. Pontiac had long been famous for its automobiles with huge torque, and the Catalina was a great example of sportiness. It accelerated very quickly from a standstill, at the same time remaining reliable and safe.

Did you know?

Source: Mecum Auctions

In the 1960s, instead of participating directly in drag racing, many automakers preferred to support these programs by placing their models in winning fleets through special dealers. Thus, they attracted the attention of the public. In 1960 2 Catalinas of the same model year were included in the garage of renowned racing driver Ace Wilson. These were automobiles with a 368 hp Super-Duty V8 engine, a four-speed manual transmission, and Super-Duty, Hydra-Matic gearbox.

1988 Pontiac Fiero GT: The first mid-engine American sports car

Posted on December 20, 2022December 20, 2022 by Library VCC

Pontiac Fiero – was supposed to be one of the best American cars – affordable, powerful, and inexpensive, with great design. But alas, it became a disaster and an absolute nightmare for GM.

Source: Zero260

The rapid expansion of the Japanese automobile industry in the second half of the 1970s created enormous problems for Detroit. The extraordinary success of the Toyota Celica and Datsun Fairlady compact coupes spoke eloquently of the prospects for inexpensive sports vehicles. Of course, their technical characteristics were far from the capabilities of imported “Gran Turismo” (Porsche, “Ferrari”) or domestic sports cars (Chevrolet Corvette, Pontiac Firebird). However, the attractive features of the “newcomers” from the East were a practical design, low weight, and unprecedented maneuverability, multiplied by a reasonable price. As in the case of the Corvette model, General Motors was the first to respond to the challenge of overseas rivals. They started in 1978 with the implementation of the project of 2-seater “personalized” sports cars on the P-car chassis. GM, for the first time, used a layout with a central location of the engine and gearbox in one block, which was successfully implemented back in the early 70s on 2-seater Porsche 914 and FIAT X1 / 9 cars. The end product in 1983 was the 2-seat Fiero. It was the first American mass-produced automobile with a body assembled from plastic panels on a steel frame. This method made it easy to change the body’s shape by installing various plastic parts.

The origins

Source: Mecum Auctions

In 1978, the company’s engineering team, led by Robert Dorn, proposed management to build a low-cost, mid-engined, plastic-bodied sports car. As a former racing driver, Dorn had long wanted to make such a vehicle, but GM’s executives doubted the market success and hesitated. Then Dorn suggested using an existing chassis and an inexpensive four-cylinder engine. Having estimated that the launch of a vehicle series would not require significant financial investments, the management gave up. Work started at the end of the same year, and the project received the code P-car. Only 410 million dollars were allocated for the development of this model. Since GM did not have a mid-engine platform then, the engineers went for a trick. They turned the platform 180 ° from the front-wheel drive Chevrolet Citation and borrowed the front suspension from the Chevrolet Chevette. Thus, they constructed a cheap mid-engine platform with an independent MacPherson-type suspension front and rear. An essential part of the P-car project was its plastic body. Here, specialists did not save much but developed a solid spatial frame to which the body panels were attached. The body came out strong, confirmed during crash tests, and the ability to change panels subsequently made the Fiero the most popular base for building replicas. The design didn’t disappoint either. The automobile looked fast and modern due to the wedge shape and the cockpit shifting forward. But despite this, the Cx coefficient of 0.37 was relatively high. In 1982, the P-car was named Pontiac Fiero, and mass production began in the spring of 1983. Later, in 1985, sales began to plummet due to technical problems: аlarming reports for Pontiac of spontaneous combustion of the Fiero started to surface. Initially, the manufacturer attributed the issue to the owners themselves, but in 1986, after 112 confirmed cases, the company admitted the problem. The official statement on the termination of assembly on March 1, 1988, was made by David Campbell, head of the production department of the Chevrolet-Pontiac-Canada group.

The 1988 model year

Source: Saroga Auto Auction

At the beginning of 1988, the plant management attempted to save the car, even offering to start production of an open modification, but in vain. In 1988, the model received its last upgrade. The new rear suspension and brakes finally made the vehicle the way the engineers initially intended. Like most cars, the Fiero was of a load-bearing design. Its difference was the existence of body panels made of composite plastic, which were easily detached. However, it was too late, sales were at most 39 thousand, and in the same year, the model was discontinued. Some company executives agreed that the “untimely death” of the model was not due to its low quality – it was just that the Americans lost interest in 2-seater cars. However, the Japanese Mazda Miata, which appeared a year later and instantly became a hit on the US market, rightfully took the vacant seat of the Fiero. However, it should be mentioned that Fiero, despite its “fiery” fiasco, left a noticeable mark in the history of the American automotive industry.

Did you know?

Source: Mecum Auctions

Popular in the 80s, Fiero appeared in such films and TV series as “Stay Alive” (2006), “In the Deep Woods” (1992), “Sleeper Cell” (2005-2006), “Pineapple Express” (2008), “Motorweek “(1981-2022), “The Change-Up” (2011), “The King of Queens” (1998-2007) and many others.

1964 Pontiac Catalina: the powerful jewel of Detroit

Posted on July 25, 2022July 25, 2022 by Library VCC

Catalina was a great example of Pontiac’s huge torque cars: it accelerated like lightning from a standstill, and the powerful engine and sporty options made it one of the fastest full-size cars produced in Detroit at the time.

Source: Mecum Auctions

The fact that the car was the most affordable in the Pontiac lineup and, for this reason, extremely popular, did not mean at all that the car was inferior in some way to the more iconic and media-hyped models of the 60s and 70s era. Maybe it was not looking as chicly as the GTO, but still, the Catalina was no less cool! The vehicle was fascinating with an incredible radiator grille in the same style as the GTO with a profile outlined “Coke bottle” style, and the huge size of a flattened frame with a full-size body! This vehicle was an embodiment of a road movie car – a vehicle that’s always ready to cross the State’s roads.

The origins

Source: PontiacV8

The car was produced from 1959 to 1981, being the most budgeted vehicle of the brand. The history of this automobile began in 1950 when the name “Catalina” was used for the DeLuxe Eight and Chieftain Eight models with removable hardtops. However, in 1959, it became a separate, Pontiac’s “entry-level”, independent automobile. In general, the basis of the sales were four-door sedans, although vehicles were available in coupe, convertible, and family wagon bodies. Even though it was considered the “Junior Pontiac”, it was not bypassed with interesting engineering solutions throughout its 22 years of production. For example, wheels with integrated brake drums were available for it. A steel rim was connected to an aluminum, richly ribbed center insert, into which a cast-iron drum ring was fused. Such wheels implemented effective heat dissipation, partly removing the main problem of drum brakes – the rapid overheating of the pads. In station wagon bodies, the back door could open in a completely crazy and impressive way: the electric drive pushed the door glass into the ceiling and the metal lower part of the door into the trunk floor! Music lovers were offered a radio receiver with its small built-in battery, which could be removed from the car dashboard with one movement and taken for offline listening. In total, five generations of the car were produced: the first (1959-1960), second (1961-1964), third (1965-1970), fourth (1971-1976), and fifth (1977-1981) respectively. Over the entire period, about 3.8 million cars were produced. The departure of the model from the market was caused by the manufacturer’s global strategy of abandoning full-size cars.

1964 model year

Source: Barrett-Jackson

By 1964, the US automobile industry already entered a new era of high performance, marked not so much by power racing as by a complex balance between power, handling, and efficient design. In the Catalina model of 1964, the company achieved a combination of these qualities, as well as road holding and great styling that surpassed the brand’s largest vehicles and most competitor models. Auto experts noted that this model was way more powerful and comfortable than competitors from Chevrolet, Buick, and Oldsmobile. At the same time, its price was much lower: for example, a Pontiac vehicle with a 6.5-liter engine cost about the same as a Chevrolet car with a 4.6-liter engine. In addition, Pontiac also had a better gearbox. In 1964, a 2+2 package was offered for the Catalina, which was installed on two-door hardtops and convertibles, and included bucket seats and reinforced suspension. The 2+2 package was first offered as an option for an additional $291on Catalina hardtops and convertibles. The Catalina’s main engine was a 389 square inch V8 with 235 hp. The gearbox was originally a three-speed, but then it was replaced by a four-speed manual transmission, which increased engine power to 280 horsepower. This automobile was equipped with floor mats, heated seats, a snack bar, a coolant defroster, trunk, and glove compartment lighting, the interior was trimmed with vinyl – for the comfort of owners, Pontiac did a lot.

Did you know?

Source: Hemmings

The center of gravity of the rear axle was moved as an experiment by 12.7 centimeters, and this technique of Pontiac engineers was a success: with a wide chassis, the vehicle ran smoother and better controlled. The slogan created by the company advertisers – “Wide Track Tiger” – was quite accurate.

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1966 Pontiac GTO: The progenitor of muscle cars

Posted on July 13, 2022July 13, 2022 by Library VCC

The ancestor of all “muscle cars” – this is how many dubbed the legendary Pontiac GTO. Whether this is true or not is very controversial, however, it’s hard to imagine a list of 10 American muscle cars where the GTO would not be, if not in the first place, then in the top three for sure.

Source: Mecum Auctions

Back in 1964, a car was born which was destined to become the progenitor of an entire era and go down in the history of the automotive industry. This model was a slightly upgraded version of a conventional coupe, which was equipped with a powerful engine. At Pontiac, people expected that the machine would sell a maximum of five thousand copies, but the reality turned out to be different. Just think – the idea of fine customization of the automobile by installing a more powerful engine was the beginning of an entire era! It was the start of the muscle car triumphal march.

The origins

Source: Silodrome

A whole team of outstanding specialists, including John DeLorean, worked on the model. The power unit was designed by Bill Collins, the design was done by Russ Gee, and the suspension went to DeLorean, who was then the chief engineer of the entire division. The name was also picked by DeLorean. GTO stood for Gran Turismo Omologato. Actually, this model should not have been born at all. At General Motors, Pontiac was considered a brand for established, mature buyers, and there was no question of sports models. In addition, in 1963, GM decided that their vehicles would no longer race. To realize the project, the team of creators had to cheat. Rather than create a new model, they added a 389cc engine to the lineup as an option for the already-produced Tempest LeMans model. The option, or rather the whole package, was called the GTO and was quickly put on sale in 1964. For only an additional $295, in addition to a powerful engine, the buyer received a stiffer suspension, a powerful front anti-roll bar, a new exhaust system, and wide 7.5″ tires. The GM management was furious, of course, but then the Pontiac team cheated again and sent brand new automobiles to key dealerships, immediately gaining 5 thousand pre-orders for the model, asking for only $2850. Then, GM did not dare to cancel the release of the vehicle and gave the green light to production. For the first incomplete year, 32,450 machines were sold.

1966 model year

Source: WallpaperUp

After another update, the body shapes had become more rounded and streamlined. The rear lights had also changed. Recognizing the growing popularity of the model, Pontiac moved it from a Tempest version to a full-fledged model for ’66. The company’s sales rose at that point to 96,946 units, by far the highest single-year figure ever achieved by a true muscle car. Other divisions of GM also began copying the machine with hotter versions of their intermediates. And while all of GM’s midsize vehicles were restyled for ’66, none got the beauty of the voluptuous contours of the GTO’s Coca-Cola bottle-style model.

The wheelbase of 66’s release remained intact, while the overall length and curb weight changed only slightly. But styling highlights included a sleek new roofline and cool fluted tail lights. The unique grille featured plastic mesh inserts, an industry first. The standard hood shape of the 1966 model remained not particularly functional, but Tri-Power engines could once again get an OTC fresh air kit, and some were equipped with Ram Goat’s first factory air. A small number of GTOs were ordered with a new boss option: weight-reducing red plastic inner fender liners. Inside, the new instrument volume was made of real wood.

Did you know?

Source: WallpaperUp

Like all legendary cars, the Pontiac GTO also had a nickname. The youth called the muscle car “goat”. There are several versions of this: according to one of them, the word was formed as a result of a simple rearrangement of letters, and according to another, it is an abbreviation for the words Gas Oil and Tire or Great One of All Times.

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1975 Pontiac Trans AM – the very first real muscle car in the world

Posted on July 10, 2022July 10, 2022 by Library VCC

Starting with building a sports car, Pontiac eventually developed the Trans AM, one of the most successful American muscle cars, which became a real legend. It was practically the very first real muscle car in the world.

Source: American Muscle Car Museum

In 1969, the iconic modification of the Pontiac Trans AM, named after the Trans American racing series, entered the market for the first time (interestingly the model never participated there). Externally, the Pontiac Firebird Trans AM of 1969 differed from the regular version of the model in bright white body color and two longitudinal blue stripes along the upper plane. A spoiler appeared on the trunk lid. The machine was equipped with the most productive “engine” – a 6.6-liter V8 with “Ram Air III” and “Ram Air IV” packages, as well as a modified suspension that allowed it to corner at higher speeds and more precise steering.

Historical reference

Source: Exotic Cars of Houston

The first Pontiac Firebird, which rolled off the production line in late 1967, was actually not quite the machine that plant general manager John DeLorean imagined. He wanted a sports vehicle equipped with two specially designed seats. However, instead, at the insistence of GМ top management, the company had to build the muscle car on the same basis as the Chevrolet Camaro. However, Pontiac’s new model was quite different from the Camaro. Launched as a new American road machine, Firebird quickly became highly popular. On the verge of the popularity of pony cars a new racing series called Trans Am was created, capable of competing even with real sports vehicle competitions. During this time, Jim Wangers was in charge of advertising for General Motors. He once recalled: “The racing version was practically the first entry of American machines into big-time motorsport.” For more than 30 years of production, more than 2 million copies were sold. At the same time, Pontiac engineers constantly continued to improve the model until it became a world-class muscle car. And their greatest achievement was their huge popularity: it was a great opportunity for those boys and girls who were too young to own and drive a real racing machine but still wanted a real American muscle car.

Difficult 70s

Source: Vintage Car Collector

The beginning of the 70s was a tough time for mighty muscle fans. The insurance lobby pushed for large price increases for high-performance vehicles, and consumer enthusiasm began to wane. Well, the fuel crisis that followed, drove the final nail into the coffin of muscle and pony machines. But at Pontiac, until the last, they believed in the wonderful future of their sports offspring. By 1974, the high-performance V-8 engine had all but disappeared from the American market. So Chevrolet stopped making the Z/28, while the Trans Am continued to improve. This model enjoyed extraordinary popularity. Fans of the model loved it primarily for its powerful engine, bold style, and excellent handling.

1975 release

Despite all the difficulties of the time, the Firebird even managed to increase sales – as many as 84,063 vehicles (and Trans AM increased sales 3 times compared to 1974) for the entire 1975! Catalytic converters had become mandatory this year, and fuel economy had brought new standards. The 1975 edition featured a more aggressive look. Flashes, spoilers, an air intake on the hood, extractors, and distinctive Firebird decals appeared on the machine. The 1975 model year exterior featured more rounded rear windows, changed rooflines, and turn signals were inserted into the grille. Also, the model abandoned the Super Duty engine, and the TurboHydramatic 400 automatic. For this, a smaller TurboHydramatic 350 automatic was found to be sufficient. Extras on the release included air conditioning, tilt steering, power brakes, and power steering. In total, 27,274 Trans Ams were produced in 1975.

Did You know?

Source: Vintage Car Collector

The Pontiac Trans AM has become a real treasure not only for collectors but also for film lovers. The 1975 release appeared in such films and TV series as The Junkman, 1982, The Usual Suspects, 1995, Superman, 1978, The Rockford Files, 1974-1980, The Fall Guy, 1981-1986, Silk Stalkings, 1991-1999, Samurai Cop, 1991 and more.

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1968 Pontiac Firebird: Phoenix Rise

Posted on July 9, 2022July 9, 2022 by Library VCC

In pursuit of the Mustang’s success, General Motors created not one, but two similar models at once to beat the ferocious Ford stallion. As a result, in 1966, the Firebird and Chevrolet Camaro were launched. A new era of pony cars was emerging.

Source: FavCars

The 50s and 60s are rightfully considered the golden age of the US automotive industry. A lot of iconic vehicles appeared these days. Especially popular in those days were rear-wheel-drive models with a V8, the power of which sometimes exceeded 400 hp. During this period the iconic Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Corvette, Camaro, and Pontiac GTO appeared. Perhaps no less famous was the Pontiac Firebird, named after the fiery bird of the Phoenix.

Cousins or siblings?

The history of this line began as a result of a “family quarrel”. GM rejected the project by John DeLorean, who dreamed of a two-seat sports car, based on the Banshee model, so unusual for the Pontiac brand. DeLorean’s resistance led to a compromise between the traditional brand and the power of the machine. Pontiac was tapping into the F-platform development that Chevrolet had already begun with its Camaro. Thus, the new vehicle appeared in the family of pony cars, 5 months later the Camaro’s production. Indeed, the first copies of these machines were so similar that they could be called not cousins but siblings. Firebird vs Camaro – the beginning of a family quarrel.

Source: Wallpaper Flare

With sales starting, the newly released machine couldn’t avoid the comparisons with its “cousin”: Chevrolet fans even called it a belated continuation of the Camaro idea. No wonder, these two machines had almost completely similar production cycles and the same materials, including sheet metals. However, later, with the introduction of new and more original releases from the Trans-Am series, Firebird vehicles gradually began to gain fame, acquiring their popularity and prestige. No rivalry between cousins – Chevrolet and Pontiac simply rejoiced at the success of their brainchildren. The Firebird has gained popularity due to its good dynamic performance and affordable price. During the first year, 88 thousand coupes and convertibles were sold, and in 1968 over 100 thousand machines left the assembly line.

The 1968 release

Source: WallpaperSafari

In the 1968 model year, a newly restyled vehicle was a little different from the previous year’s release. Pontiac’s designers made several changes to the interior and some minor updates to the exterior. The interior of the 1968 model received an enlarged padded instrument panel and sun visors. There were also windshield pillar moldings, crushable armrests, and a flow ventilation system with adjustable round deflectors on the lower instrument panel. The newly installed Astro ventilation system caused side vents removal. At the same time, the Pontiac received fender lights, strong headlight protection, and stylized arrowheads on the sides, not to mention the staggering suspension and multi-leaf rear springs for improved handling. Under the hood, the Firebird received a staggering amount of horsepower, which was the result of a new, powerful V-8 engine installation. Buyers immediately liked the new pony car and in just one year the number of its sales exceeded – the company sold 90152 coupe models and 1960 convertibles. While 1968’s release’s appearance underwent minor changes, its power grew, like all Muscle Cars this year. The stock 400 added power and put out 335 hp, and with the Ram Air, much more. In the middle of the year, the 340 hp Ram Air II appeared and a new, already third 400 cc V8 High Output. Subsequently, the 175 horsepower (130 kW) 3.8-liter engines with a single barrel carburetor were superseded by the more powerful 4.1-liter engine producing 215 horsepower (160 kW) with a four-barrel carburetor. Also, for the 1968 model year, the 5.3-liter engine was replaced by a 5.7 liter “HO” version, which had a modified combustion chamber and produced 320 horsepower. Subsequently, engines of this volume (5.7 l) became the most popular for this class of vehicles.

Source: WallpaperUp

Did you know?

Like all members of its class, the 1968 Pontiac Firebird was the star of American roads and screens. The 1968 release appeared in films such as Das Beste Stück (2002), Mr. President: Happy People (1998), Booker (1989-1990), Alfie Darling (1975), etc. However, one of the most memorable appearances of the 1968 model was in Australian superstar Kylie Minogue’s single “Some Kind of Bliss” music video from her sixth studio album Impossible Princess (1997).

If you have a 1968 Pontiac Firebird and you are looking to give it a good home, contact us!