Firebird Vs Transam - Whats the difference?

[Paul O]

Hi all,

Whats the difference between these two cars? I've seen the Ebay add with the Firebird thats been made to look like a Knight Rider replica.

Whats the fundamental difference between these cars, they look very similar?!!

Cheers!

Paul.

[Newcastle knight]

They are all Firebirds, Trans Am is a trim level, kind of like how you can get Golf, and you can get Golf GTI.

A Pontiac Firebird is the base model, usually with a V6 engine and not a lot of power options, on the earlier ones anyway, then the Pontiac Firebird Trans Am has the V8 under the bonnet and other options, just depends on what year of car it is because there were loads of different options available over the years

If we use the 82 as an example, a Firebird would of had a flat hood, no vents in the fenders, windy down windows, different rear tail lights without the tint etc, then the 82 Trans Am had the lot.

[Paul O]

aaaaah!! Thanks mate! Basically then, the Transam is the one to go for!

[pbryant_knight]

You thinking of buying Paul?

Peter

[Paul O]

I'm always thinking about it mate. Storage might be a problem at the minute, but if a bargain was to arise I could be tempted.

Seeing the Ebay one mentioned on the sales board recently sell for £800 and then the firebird for about £1500 its perked a curiosity and enthusiam once again.

My only worries still relate to fixing these cars. A mechanic I'm not. I can just about turn the key and drive them forward but if it doesn't start, aside from kicking the tyres I'm pretty much out of ideas.

Another question if I may. If you bought one with the wrong wheels and interior colour, how much are we talking to rectify this? Wheels..? Interior Retrim...?

Thanks!

[KnaresboroughKnight]

If your going all out KITT then your looking at tens of thousands, apparently it's addictive and you will always be changing something on the car..... Its the main reason I've stayed away from buying one for the time being.
That said if you do want one I would gladly help you pick it up, do basic work on it etc.... That said, like you a mechanic i am not, but a man with many contacts I am ;-) a student of mine works in a bodyshop (he was in a car spraying championship this weekend or something!) and is a dab hand at bodykits etc. Another student owns a detailing and valeting company and is good with electronics.

Then of course there is everyone here :-)

[GuestGuest]

Then of course there is me, your friendly uk based Knight Rider parts specialist and firebird/T.A specialist.

Im also a mechanic and Refinisher.

I have to agree with The statement that these cars can run you into thousands if you are looking to build an accurate replica though.

Thanks and welcome to the new board.

Rik

[Newcastle knight]

Paul, if you do decide to get a car then we are all here to help mate, thats what the forum is for

When i got my car i knew where the petrol went and that was it, id never picked up a spanner in my life but you sharp learn, ive had my KITT for nearly 6 years and he's still going strong so i must be doing something right

[Tony Westwood]

What's a spanner?


(and don't say look in the mirror!!!!)

[pbryant_knight]

I can't even change the oil in mine lol

Have to get a garage to do all my work for me. No more expensive than a regular car. In fact, some of the mechanical bits are cheaper :0

Peter

[Firebreather]

You only have to run into 10's of thousands if you do an accurate one. I just bought a Formula and now I've changed the nose which I got off Scott for a bargain and then got some cooler wheels than the standard ones for £200 which I painted the middle of black. Theyre not the proper wheels, but I prefer them.

But I've got KARR so it doesnt have to be accurate

[knight2]

Owning one of these cars is not only massively fun and always a buzz when driving around , but it's also a huge learning curve...........

They are not difficult to work on but the older they get and if not maintained, you will get things wearing out and causing issues( like most cars).

For the record my 1982 Trans Am had done 67,000 miles when i bought him in June 1992.
I have now covered 226,000miles with the same Chevy 305 smallblock engine, Rochester Quadrajet, origional carb and turbo Hydramatic 200c tranny!
The transmission was rebuilt at 167,000 miles.
The only major things i've had since owning this car are slight but not major oil leaks and after the first four years rust has been creeping up in the common spots,which is now being taken care of as i held it back at least once a year.
If you look after these and don't have a heavy right foot and change the oil regularly, as well as go over the common and major parts ready and needed for the MOT these cars DO last well, i think mine has demonstrated that much.

The later 3rd gens from 1985 up had more power and after 1987 were all fuel injected.The formula is the best later 3rd gen to go for as it will be very similar to the 1982/3/4 on the outside and only the interior will be different.
It all depends on how accurate you want to be with it?
Also finding a good example of a 1982/3/4 in the UK will be VERY difficult now.
Most are abused and nearly always have the emissions and other vital parts ripped out ,which is a big mistake if keeping the origional engine and set up.I have seen many abused like this which is sad and does NOT improve anything! The interiors will be worn and in definet need of some restoration

Whatever you decide i wish you luck and like has been mentioned, i don't think you'll be lacking help or assistance from us guys.....
...........Kevin

[thanutz]

I agree with Kevin. Every time and I mean every time I drive mine I am always in a good mood. My heart starts racing as soon as the engine roars to life.

However, like any classic/niche car it can be stressful to own when things turn sour. Luckily there are a few decent communities (here, poc, thirdgen.org) to get advise from experienced car owners.

I have no intention, unless forced in ever selling my car.

Mine is a firebird, not a ta but is the 5L model but had a TA a while back and as long as you dont go for the basic firebird you will be fine.

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