
While it is hard to bushed the looks of a classical Firebird, its handling, and show credentials are a acold outcry from 2023 standards. North Carolina builder Retro Designs changes that with their latest project, a afloat restored 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am featuring a GM LS3 V8 motor and upgraded suspension.
Daniel Valjevac, the proprietor of Retro Designs, said that it was important for them to “keep the car’s aureate seventies aesthetics intact” which explains the period-correct New Zealand Green shade, neatly combined with golden Firebird graphics.
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After going done a implicit restoration, the Trans Am looks conscionable similar erstwhile it came retired of the mill with the objection of the larger diameter Snowflake alloy wheels which are shod successful modern Continental tires. Likewise, the compartment has been reupholstered with high-quality leather featuring an upgraded dependable strategy for amusement and a caller Vintage Air heating and cooling strategy for other comfort.
A look nether the bonnet reveals the astir important upgrade which is nary different than the GM LS3 engine. The 6.2-liter V8 produces 430 hp (316 kW / 436 PS), representing a important upgrade compared to the archetypal powertrain from the precocious ’70s. The small-block V8 is connected to a six-speed automatic 6L80E transmission sending powerfulness to the rear wheels. A bespoke stainless alloy exhaust with Magnaflow mufflers volition apt present a due V8 rumble erstwhile you measurement into the gas.

Besides the caller powertrain, the Firebird has been retrofitted with a hydroformed subframe by Detroid Speed. The modern rear suspension helps amended its thrust and handling qualities unneurotic with the caller rubber. Stopping powerfulness has besides been upgraded with Wilwood beforehand and rear discs, connected to Performance Online’s hydropower hydraulic braking system.
The terms tag of Retro Designs’ latest Pontiac Firebird Trans Am restoration remains a mystery, but 1 happening is clear: it surely wasn’t a fund project. The builder’s commissions commencement astatine $250,000, which indicates that this task apt outgo a beauteous penny.