What Is the Difference Between a Pontiac Firebird, a Formula, and a Trans Am

If you’ve ever looked at Firebirds, Formulas, and Trans Ams, and thought they all kind of look alike, you’re right, as far as the body lines go. There are differences, though – mainly under the hood.

They’re All Firebirds?

Firebird is the name of the whole lineup of these cars, with Firebird being the basic trim package for the line, and Trans Am and Formula being special trim packages.

One easily spotted feature that tells you if a car is a basic Firebird is right under the hood. Pontiac Firebirds are the six cylinder models – with one caveat.

(Note that in classic Firebirds, which are really what this article is about, a lower horsepower V8 was available as an option, but the lighter suspension of the V6 was still used.)

What Makes a Firebird a Formula?

The Pontiac Firebird Formula has the V8 engine of the Pontiac T/A, but the basic lines a classic Firebird.

Leaving off the extra features that deliver the Trans Am ‘look’ while still providing the powerful V8 engine and Trans Am suspension made the Formula Firebird lighter and more responsive and powerful.

What Makes a Firebird a Trans Am?

With the Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, you get a little extra power, courtesy of the V8 engine.

You also get the exceptional handling of an upgraded suspension, plus the Trans Am has some extra body effects and a more luxurious interior so you can enjoy the ride in style.

Interested in Buying or Selling a Classic Pontiac Firebird?

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