USA vs USA — 1970 vs 1989
| Firebird Trans Am | Firebird Trans Am GTA | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 335 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 480 lb-ft | 350 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,456 cc | 5,735 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.4 sec | 5.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 150 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.5 sec | 14.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,500 lbs | 3,400 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,565 mm |
| Length | 4,902 mm | 4,978 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,196 | 16,700 |
| Original MSRP | $4,305 | $19,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $38,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 6/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am excels in more power, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1989 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA stands out for quicker acceleration, higher top speed, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Tracing the evolution of the Pontiac Firebird from 1970 to 1989 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Pontiac. The 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am holds a clear advantage in raw power with 335 hp compared to 250 hp, a 85-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Pontiac Firebird uses a V8 OHV (Pontiac 455) displacing 7,456 cc, while the Pontiac Firebird Trans Am relies on a V8 OHV with 5,735 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1989 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA edges ahead at 5.4 seconds versus 5.4 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 3,196 units built, the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am is considerably scarcer than the Pontiac Firebird Trans Am's 16,700 examples. On the collector market, the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am commands a significant premium over the 1989 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.