New to Firebirds, general question(s)

[JstCloseUrEyes]

Hello folks,

I am new to Firebirds, but not to Pontiacs in general (I have a 2000 Grand Prix), but, I am looking into getting a Firebird.

But I have come across a lot of information on the internet, but nothing that really answers my questions.

What is the difference between the Firebird, Firebird Trans AM, and the Trans AM. all of with I've seen listings and information for. I am looking into a 1998 or newer with the 305HP V8, what model would I look for ...Trans AM, Firebird, which one? Also, parts for the Firebird, or TransAM, are they interchangeable, (source www.pfyc.com for parts).

Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions, I hope to become more knowledgeable about these Pontiacs now.

-Chris

[blindeyed]

Originally Posted by JstCloseUrEyes

Hello folks,

I am new to Firebirds, but not to Pontiacs in general (I have a 2000 Grand Prix), but, I am looking into getting a Firebird.

But I have come across a lot of information on the internet, but nothing that really answers my questions.

What is the difference between the Firebird, Firebird Trans AM, and the Trans AM. all of with I've seen listings and information for. I am looking into a 1998 or newer with the 305HP V8, what model would I look for ...Trans AM, Firebird, which one? Also, parts for the Firebird, or TransAM, are they interchangeable, (source www.pfyc.com for parts).

Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions, I hope to become more knowledgeable about these Pontiacs now.

-Chris

Here are the models from 98-02
1. Firebird
2. Firebird Formula
3. Trans Am
4. Trans Am WS.6

Since you're looking for a V8 LS1, you should be checking out numbers 2-4. The Firebird was the base model, and came with a 3.8L V6, which I'm sure you're probably familiar with. The difference between that of yours and the one in the Firebird is that it's a pushrod engine as compared to your DOHC. The Firebird Formula is a step up, while retaining the looks of a basic Firebird, it was equipped with the Trans Am's LS1 engine and it's suspension as well. The Trans Am was another step up. It came with a different front bumper, side skirts, and a raised up rear spoiler. And finally, the Trans Am WS.6 was the beefed up version of the Trans Am. It retained the basic Trans Am appearance, while also coming with the Ram Air hood. Not too sure on the HP number difference, I think it may be 320 hp as compared to the 305. May be wrong, so don't take my word for it.

But that's the basic run down. I'm sure other members will have some more of an input to help describe the differences further.

[tuske427]

Yes, the "WS-6" is really just the sport supsension package, on the last of the 4th gen cars, that option gave you the 17" wheels, the stiffer springs and larger front sway bar, as well as the ram air hood and badging. The model is still a Trans Am whether or not is has the optional WS-6 package.

The title or registration shouldn't differentiate a WS-6 car versus a non WS-6 car. Maybe your insurance will, I don't know.

Pontiac decided to use the "WS-6" name as a marketing icon like the "Z-28" was used for Camaro.

Then there are aftermarket "Tuner" cars like the SLP Firehawk, the Mecham
T/A, the Hurst/ Lingenfelter, and the GMMG (Blackbird?) and probably a few others....

[MrPbody]

WS-x has long been Pontiac's method of identifying the suspension package a given car came with originally. The earier T/As ('70-'76) were mostly WS-4. The code is located on the rim tag under the hood. I first saw WS-6 in '77 models (that doesn't mean it wasn't available sooner, I just never saw one). By '78, it also included rear discs and BIG stabilizer bars.
WS-x has the same origin as Z/28. That was the option code on the order sheet for the '67 Camaro intended for SCCA competition (5 lr. limit, thus the 302 Chevy). By '69 it was so popular, it became a sort of "model" on the RS package. I believe it became a true model in '70 (and 1/2).
FWIW

Jim