Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA
The third-generation Firebird was a radical departure from the previous twelve years. Gone was the curvy, chrome-laden body replaced by a sharp-edged, aerodynamic wedge shape designed in the wind tunnel. When it launched in 1982, it was one of the most aerodynamically efficient production cars in America.
The early third-gen cars suffered from mediocre engines — the base Iron Duke four-cylinder made just 90 hp, and even the optional 305 V8 only managed 150 hp. But the car gradually improved. The 1985 model received Tuned Port Injection on the 305, and in 1987 the 350 cubic inch TPI V8 became available, making 225 hp (later 235 hp).
The GTA (Gran Turismo Americano) trim debuted in 1987 as the ultimate third-gen Trans Am. It featured the 350 TPI V8, 16-inch gold mesh wheels, WS6 performance suspension, limited-slip differential, leather interior, and a host of standard equipment. The GTA was a genuine grand tourer — fast, comfortable, and surprisingly capable in the corners.
The Firebird also played an unlikely role in television history. KITT (Knight Industries Two Thousand) from Knight Rider (1982-86) was a modified third-gen Trans Am, introducing the car to millions of viewers worldwide. The show turned the third-gen Trans Am into a cultural icon just as Smokey and the Bandit had done for the second generation.
The 1989 anniversary edition commemorated the Trans Am's 20th birthday with a turbocharged 3.8L V6 option (later Buick GNX engine) making 250 hp. The third gen ended production in 1992, replaced by the fourth-generation car in 1993.
The GTA is the most desirable standard third-gen variant. Look for the 350 TPI engine — the 305 is significantly less powerful. T-tops are very common and add character but check for rust and leaks. The 1989 Turbo Trans Am is the rarest and most valuable regular-production model. Floor pans, trunk floors, and rear hatch area are rust-prone. The TPI system is reliable but the injectors can clog over time. Dashboard cracking is a universal problem on these cars.
Peak production was 1982 (116,680 for all Firebirds), declining through the decade. Trans Am GTA production (1987-92): approximately 15,000-25,000 per year. The 1989 20th Anniversary Turbo Trans Am was limited to about 1,555 units. Van Nuys plant closed after the third-gen; fourth-gen moved to Sainte-Thérèse, Quebec.