USA vs USA — 1970 vs 1998
| Firebird Trans Am | Firebird Trans Am WS6 Ram Air | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 335 hp | 325 hp |
| Torque | 480 lb-ft | 350 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,456 cc | 5,665 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.4 sec | 4.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 164 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.5 sec | 13.3 sec |
| Weight | 3,500 lbs | 3,496 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,565 mm |
| Length | 4,902 mm | 4,920 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,196 | — |
| Original MSRP | $4,305 | $29,865 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 6/10 |
Numbers favor the 1998 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am WS6 Ram Air with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, better value. The 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am offers stronger collectibility, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Pontiac Firebird. The 1970 and 1998 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am producing 335 hp and the 1998 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am WS6 Ram Air delivering 325 hp. 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 16V with 5,665 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1998 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am WS6 Ram Air edges ahead at 4.9 seconds versus 5.4 seconds. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.