Pontiac Firebird
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
This Firebird starts on the first turn of the key with no assistance from the manual choke and gets up to temperature quickly, idling well on that 4bbl Weber carburettor. It drives very well, feeling tight and planted and inspiring confidence in the corners. The 350ci V8 provides instant visceral power; it’s all too easy to light up the rear tyres, but extremely difficult to resist the urge. The three-speed Turbo-Hydromatic automatic gearbox does well to transmit all that power to the rear wheels but it’s a shame that it’s not a manual. The car feels solid and the brakes work well, with no juddering or squealing. The only real noise comes from the dual exhausts – and it’s superlative.
BODYWORK CHECK
The quality of the bodywork suggests that a lot of money has been spent on this car in the past; the dark metallic blue paint is exceptional, with no marks, chips or rust anywhere. The dished chrome Weld Racing alloy wheels are in top condition and come wrapped in well-treaded Bridgestone Potenza tyres. The exterior trim is stunning and free from any age-related marks. Underneath the car also appears very tidy and there are no signs of corrosion or damage.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The interior is somewhat utilitarian, but undamaged and free from any serious wear. Everything works as intended and the three tasteful additional gauges installed under the dashboard display water temperature, battery voltage and oil pressure. The faux wood-trimmed centre console is in good condition, though the original steering wheel looks rather cheap and lets the cockpit down somewhat; a jazzier replacement would really lift the interior. The seats, door cards, carpet and headlining are basic but in good condition and an aftermarket stereo, along with both door and parcel shelf speakers, have been fitted. The condition of the rest of the car extends to the engine bay, which is in excellent fettle featuring chrome-covered valve covers, alternator, ignition coil and air cleaner, as well as braided hoses. There are no signs of any leaks or damage and the paint in the bay itself and on the underside of the bonnet is faultless. All the fluid levels are where they should be and the oil is clean. Being a fresh import from Canada, however, there’s minimal paperwork with the car.
THE CCW VIEW
Epitomising everything a late 1960s American muscle car should be, this Firebird is the real deal. Don’t worry about petrol costs – it’s all about smiles per gallon with this beast, which will bring out your inner teenager.