The 1968 Pontiac Firebird is a classic American muscle car that was produced by Pontiac from 1967 to 2002. This car was designed to compete with the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro, and it quickly gained a following due to its powerful engines, sleek design, and impressive performance. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the 1968 Pontiac Firebird, its history, specifications, and why it’s still considered a beloved classic car today.
History of the 1968 Pontiac Firebird
The Pontiac Firebird was first introduced in 1967 as a 1968 model year car. It was built on the same platform as the Chevrolet Camaro and shared many of its components. However, the Firebird had its own unique styling and was marketed toward a more performance-oriented audience.
The 1968 Pontiac Firebird was available in three different models: the base model, the Sprint, and the Firebird 400. The base model came with a 3.8-liter straight-six engine that produced 175 horsepower, while the Sprint had a 4.1-liter straight-six engine that produced 215 horsepower. The Firebird 400 had a 6.6-liter V8 engine that produced 330 horsepower and was capable of going from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.4 seconds.
The Firebird was popular among car enthusiasts and was featured in many films and television shows. It also had a successful racing career, with notable victories in the Trans-Am series.
Specifications of the 1968 Pontiac Firebird
The 1968 Pontiac Firebird was available in both coupe and convertible body styles. It had a length of 188.5 inches, a width of 72.4 inches, and a height of 50.6 inches. Its wheelbase was 108.1 inches, and it weighed between 3,000 and 3,500 pounds, depending on the model and options.
The base model came with a three-speed manual transmission, but a four-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmission was also available as options. The Sprint and Firebird 400 models came with a four-speed manual transmission as standard, but a three-speed automatic transmission was also available.
The 1968 Pontiac Firebird had a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, and independent front suspension. It had power-assisted disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. The Firebird 400 model also had a limited-slip differential and a stiffer suspension for better handling.
Why the 1968 Pontiac Firebird is Still a Classic Car Today
The 1968 Pontiac Firebird is still considered a classic car today because of its unique styling, powerful engines, and impressive performance. It’s sleek design and aggressive stance make it stand out from other cars of its era, and its powerful engines make it a joy to drive.
The Firebird also had a successful racing career, which has helped to cement its status as a classic car. Its victories in the Trans-Am series and its appearances in films and television shows have helped to keep it in the public eye and maintain its popularity.
Conclusion
The 1968 Pontiac Firebird is a classic American muscle car that was designed to compete with the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. It was available in three different models and had a range of powerful engines and impressive performance specs. Today, it’s still considered a beloved classic car, with its unique styling and successful racing career helping to maintain its popularity.
FAQs
1. What is the value of a 1968 Pontiac Firebird?
The value of a 1968 Pontiac Firebird can vary depending on its condition, mileage, and any modifications or upgrades it may have. According to Hagerty, a classic car valuation and insurance company, a 1968 Pontiac Firebird in good condition can be worth anywhere from $20,000 to $50,000 or more.
2. What engines were available in the 1968 Pontiac Firebird?
The 1968 Pontiac Firebird was available with three different engines: a 3.8-liter straight-six engine, a 4.1-liter straight-six engine, and a 6.6-liter V8 engine.
3. Was the 1968 Pontiac Firebird a successful racing car?
Yes, the 1968 Pontiac Firebird had a successful racing career, with notable victories in the Trans-Am series.
4. What is the difference between the base model, the Sprint, and the Firebird 400?
The base model of the 1968 Pontiac Firebird came with a 3.8-liter straight-six engine, while the Sprint had a 4.1-liter straight-six engine. The Firebird 400 had a 6.6-liter V8 engine, along with stiffer suspension and a limited-slip differential for better handling.
5. How long was the 1968 Pontiac Firebird in production?
The 1968 Pontiac Firebird was in production for just one year, as it was introduced as a 1968 model year car and replaced with a redesigned model for 1969. However, the Firebird continued to be produced in various forms until 2002.
