The 1973 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am brought the styling and power to properly crown the end of the muscle car era.
For us at HotCars, the 1973 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am is a gem worthy of mention. Birthed from the pony car line that aimed to compete with the iconic Ford Mustang, this variation had an impressive performance and one-of-the-kind styling to offer. Here’s some more info about it.
A Look At The Predecessors Of The 1973 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am
The 1973 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am belongs to the second generation of the lineup. The first one lasted from 1967 to 1969 and had characteristic styling the automotive community likes to call Coke bottle.
With the integrated front end and the slit taillights, the Pontiac Firebird was recognizable from the start. It initially came in hardtop and convertible body styles and either with an inline-six or V8 engine. The power output ranged between a mild 165 and an impressive 325 horsepower.
In 1968, the power output increased slightly, and the body of the car got side marker lights, larger turn signals, and V-shaped arrowhead logos. However, it was the 1969 model year that got a significant facelift with a new front-end design and interior bits. The same styling and power output remained all up to the end of 1970 due to engineering problems at Pontiac.
Therefore, the second generation Pontiac Firebird arrived later than expected, but it featured a new styling that replaced the Coke bottle and two new trims: the (more luxurious) Esprit and the Formula.
Interestingly, while the power output from the inline-six and V8 engines ranged between 155 and 370 horsepower, only the famous Trans Am version got the most impressive performance. Customers could not order any other trim with the most potent V8, which situated Trans Am as a special trim early on.
Specs And Looks: Exploring The Eye-Catching 1973 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am
The 1971 production year brought new fenders, bucket seats, and other deluxe niceties to the Firebird. Although the engines remained unchanged throughout this and the following year, the power output was rated lower (at 355 horsepower at maximum) due to GM’s requirement for the Pontiac to switch from SAE Gross to SAE Net power ratings.
Now, the Firebird of the 1973 production year got new shiny colors, red and green, and a new modern nose. But it was the 1973 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am that got an exclusive nose bird to differentiate itself from the lineup as the top trim. This styling remained highly popular to date.
Inside, the 1973 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am featured styling unchanged from previous years. However, the power output had to change due to the new safety and emission regulations that spoiled the fun. Still, with the base 455 cubic-inch L75 engine, the Trans Am put out 250 horsepower and 370 lb-ft of torque. With the Super Duty LS2 engine, that rose to 290 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque, which was still more than impressive enough.
The new radial-tuned suspension was also characteristic of the 1973 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, making the car more comfortable and easier to handle in corners with 15-inch radial tires. So, overall, the Trans Am was the top trim of the production year in all ways that matter.
How Much Is The 1973 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am Worth Today?
With its muscular body and that classic bare-stripped leather interior, the 1973 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am is a widely sought-after ride even today. The rich history and the high power designation from the good old V8 also help add to the popularity, of course.
If you’re up for buying the 1973 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, you’ll be pleased to hear this pony car is not that challenging to find on auctions and used car markets. However, the price is suitable for a vehicle of its caliber and fame, so expect to pay at least $45,000 to acquire it.
Depending on the condition and the engine under the hood of the 1973 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, that final price tag may even reach $90,000, so it’s good to be prepared.