1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am: Difference between revisions
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The exterior design included a distinctive front fascia with four rectangular headlights, a shaker hood scoop (functional with certain engines), and a rear spoiler. Standard wheels were 15-inch stamped steel rims with trim rings, though optional aluminum wheels were offered. The interior featured bucket seats, a center console, and a dashboard with a tachometer and speedometer. Vinyl upholstery was standard, with cloth available as an option. | The exterior design included a distinctive front fascia with four rectangular headlights, a shaker hood scoop (functional with certain engines), and a rear spoiler. Standard wheels were 15-inch stamped steel rims with trim rings, though optional aluminum wheels were offered. The interior featured bucket seats, a center console, and a dashboard with a tachometer and speedometer. Vinyl upholstery was standard, with cloth available as an option. | ||
== Engine == | |||
In addition to the base 403 V8, buyers could opt for a 301 cubic-inch (4.9-liter) Pontiac V8, producing 150 horsepower, though this was less common in the Trans Am due to its performance focus. In states with stricter emissions regulations (like California), or for buyers selecting the four-speed manual, the 400 cubic-inch (6.6-liter) Pontiac V8 was available, rated at 220 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque. This engine was a carryover from earlier years but phased out after 1979 due to emissions standards. The 403 V8 was not offered with the manual transmission. | |||
The 1979 Trans Am with the 403 V8 had a 0-60 mph time of approximately 8.5 seconds and a quarter-mile time of around 16.5 seconds at 85 mph, as tested by period automotive publications. Top speed was estimated at 120 mph, though this varied with gearing and engine choice. Fuel economy averaged 12-15 mpg, typical for V8-powered cars of the era. | |||
Revision as of 12:08, 19 March 2025
The 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am marked the 10th anniversary of the Trans Am nameplate, celebrated with a special edition, and saw record production numbers—over 117,000 Firebird units, with around 67,000 being Trans Am models. The 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am was part of the second-generation Firebird lineup, produced from 1970 to 1981. It was manufactured by Pontiac, a division of General Motors, and built on the F-body platform shared with the Chevrolet Camaro.
The 1979 Trans Am came equipped with a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. The standard engine was a 403 cubic-inch (6.6-liter) Oldsmobile V8, producing 185 horsepower at 3,600 RPM and 320 lb-ft of torque at 2,200 RPM. This engine was paired with a three-speed automatic transmission (Turbo Hydra-Matic 350). A four-speed manual transmission (Borg-Warner Super T-10) was available as an option, but only with certain engine choices. The vehicle featured a front subframe with an independent coil-spring suspension and a rear live axle with leaf springs. Standard brakes included power-assisted front discs and rear drums. The Trans Am had a curb weight of approximately 3,600 pounds.
The exterior design included a distinctive front fascia with four rectangular headlights, a shaker hood scoop (functional with certain engines), and a rear spoiler. Standard wheels were 15-inch stamped steel rims with trim rings, though optional aluminum wheels were offered. The interior featured bucket seats, a center console, and a dashboard with a tachometer and speedometer. Vinyl upholstery was standard, with cloth available as an option.
Engine
In addition to the base 403 V8, buyers could opt for a 301 cubic-inch (4.9-liter) Pontiac V8, producing 150 horsepower, though this was less common in the Trans Am due to its performance focus. In states with stricter emissions regulations (like California), or for buyers selecting the four-speed manual, the 400 cubic-inch (6.6-liter) Pontiac V8 was available, rated at 220 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque. This engine was a carryover from earlier years but phased out after 1979 due to emissions standards. The 403 V8 was not offered with the manual transmission.
The 1979 Trans Am with the 403 V8 had a 0-60 mph time of approximately 8.5 seconds and a quarter-mile time of around 16.5 seconds at 85 mph, as tested by period automotive publications. Top speed was estimated at 120 mph, though this varied with gearing and engine choice. Fuel economy averaged 12-15 mpg, typical for V8-powered cars of the era.
online resources
parts sources
- ShowCarsRob in Canada: (905) 857-6345
- Glasstek auto parts
- Classic TA: Firebird / Trans Am Firebird 1979-1981
- Summit Racing Equipment
forums discussions
Start with Firebird Nation and the Second Generation Firebird Owners Group for the most active and relevant discussions.
- Firebird Nation - This is one of the most active online forums dedicated specifically to Pontiac Firebird owners and enthusiasts. Sections for 2nd Gen Firebirds (1970–1981), including Trans Ams, and covers technical discussions, modifications, and general ownership topics.