USA vs USA — 1970 vs 1962
| Firebird Trans Am | Grand Prix SJ 455 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 335 hp | 325 hp |
| Torque | 480 lb-ft | 440 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,456 cc | 7,456 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.4 sec | 7.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 125 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.5 sec | 15.3 sec |
| Weight | 3,500 lbs | 3,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,946 mm |
| Length | 4,902 mm | 5,360 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,196 | 112,486 |
| Original MSRP | $4,305 | $3,549 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $40,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 5/10 |
On balance, the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am makes a stronger case on paper with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. However, the 1962 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ 455 counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am for outright capability, or the 1962 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ 455 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Pontiac has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am with the 1962 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ 455 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am producing 335 hp and the 1962 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ 455 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 Grand Prix relies on a V8 OHV with 7,456 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am edges ahead at 5.4 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. The Pontiac Firebird carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 300 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 3,196 units built, the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am is considerably scarcer than the Pontiac Grand Prix's 112,486 examples. On the collector market, the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am commands a significant premium over the 1962 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ 455, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.