Pontiac Firebird 400
The Pontiac Firebird debuted on February 23, 1967, five months after the Chevrolet Camaro. Both shared GM's F-body platform, but the Firebird was distinctly Pontiac — it used Pontiac's own overhead-valve V8 engines rather than Chevrolet powerplants, and its split-grille front end echoed the GTO's distinctive styling.
The first-generation Firebird was offered in several trim levels based on engine choice: Firebird (inline-6 or 326 V8), Sprint (overhead-cam inline-6), Firebird 326 HO, Firebird 400, and the top-dog Firebird 400 HO and Ram Air. The 400 cubic inch V8 made the Firebird a legitimate performance car, with 325-335 hp depending on specification.
The Sprint models, with their overhead-cam inline-6 producing 215 hp in HO tune, represented a distinctly different philosophy — European-style balanced performance rather than pure straight-line speed. They handled better than V8 cars due to less nose weight.
The 1968 model received Pontiac's multi-leaf rear spring setup and 350 cubic inch V8 option. The 1969 model got a complete restyling with Endura bumper, giving it a much more aggressive look. The 1969 Trans Am debuted as a limited-production performance special.
The Firebird was always more of a grand touring car than the raw muscle of the GTO. Its longer hood, lower stance, and better weight distribution made it a more sophisticated driving experience, even if it couldn't quite match the GTO in raw straight-line acceleration.
First-gen Firebirds share many parts with Camaros but are less common and somewhat more affordable. The 400 V8 models are most desirable among standard Firebirds. Convertibles command a significant premium. Check for subframe rust, cowl rust, and rear leaf spring perch deterioration. Replacement panels are widely available from aftermarket suppliers. The 1969 model with Endura nose is most sought-after. Verify engine originality via VIN and engine casting codes.
1967: 82,560 total (Firebird 400: 15,528). 1968: 107,112. 1969: 87,708. The convertible was available all three years and adds significant value. The 1969 Trans Am production was just 689 hardtops and 8 convertibles.