USA vs USA — 1982 vs 1998
| Firebird Trans Am GTA | Firebird Trans Am WS6 Ram Air | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 235 hp | 325 hp |
| Torque | 330 lb-ft | 350 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,733 cc | 5,665 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.3 sec | 4.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 145 mph | 164 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.5 sec | 13.3 sec |
| Weight | 3,300 lbs | 3,496 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,565 mm | 2,565 mm |
| Length | 4,930 mm | 4,920 mm |
| Units Produced | 125,886 | — |
| Original MSRP | $17,995 | $29,865 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 6/10 |
The 1998 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am WS6 Ram Air emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1982 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The Pontiac Firebird lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1982 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA with the 1998 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am WS6 Ram Air reveals how Pontiac refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 1998 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am WS6 Ram Air holds a clear advantage in raw power with 325 hp compared to 235 hp, a 90-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 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 6.3 seconds. Both cars have earned their place in automotive history and continue to captivate enthusiasts around the world.