USA vs USA — 1982 vs 1964
| Firebird Trans Am GTA | Firebird Trans Am | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 235 hp | 335 hp |
| Torque | 330 lb-ft | 430 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,733 cc | 6,554 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.3 sec | 6.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 145 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.5 sec | 14.1 sec |
| Weight | 3,300 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,565 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,930 mm | 4,825 mm |
| Units Produced | 125,886 | — |
| Original MSRP | $17,995 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 10/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1982 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA offers higher top speed, stronger collectibility, better value, while the 1964 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am counters with more power, quicker acceleration. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
The Pontiac Firebird lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1982 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA with the 1964 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am reveals how Pontiac refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 1964 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am holds a clear advantage in raw power with 335 hp compared to 235 hp, a 100-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Pontiac Firebird uses a V8 OHV (Chevrolet 350 TPI) displacing 5,733 cc, while the Pontiac Firebird relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 6,554 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1964 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am edges ahead at 6.2 seconds versus 6.3 seconds. On the collector market, the 1964 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am commands a significant premium over the 1982 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.