The RARE Firebird That Destroyed Corvettes - The Pontiac Firehawk

Автокөліктер мен көлік құралдары

In this Rare Cars documentary, we are going over the story of the Pontiac Firebird that Dethroned the Corvette - the SLP Firehawk. This dealer special order hopped up firebird packed a NASTY built 350 small block that gave even the mighty ZR1 a run for its money.
These Firehawks were SERIOUSLY fast and one of the last true hot rods out there - but how come you never heard of them or have seen them? Stay tuned to the end to get the full story!
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
1:07 The Background
4:28 Powerplant
5:45 Performance Figures
7:58 Why it is SO Rare
*Note, we are not historians. If you see an error in our research then please mention it in the comments!
For business inquiries or other inquiries, reach out to: rarecarsmedia@fearlessotter.com
Sources:
-www.newgmparts.com/blog/brief...
-specialtyvehicleengineering.c...
-www.caranddriver.com/reviews/...
-www.roadandtrack.com/car-cult...
-www.motortrend.com/features/h...
NOTICE: Clips used from other videos are fair use and fall under U.S. copyright law because this work is transformative in nature, and has no negative effect on the market for the original work. It is against the law to fraudulently claim a copyright on a video you do not own under the DMCA or to abuse KZread’s copyright claim tool. Copyright concerns and takedown requests can be submitted to: rarecarsmedia@gmail.com

Пікірлер: 812

  • @rarecars3336
    @rarecars333627 күн бұрын

    Firehawk or C4 ZR1...what would you have picked 🤔?

  • @kfh1

    @kfh1

    27 күн бұрын

    If I had the money, which I didn't, I would've loved to have a C4 ZR1. Hell, I would've taken a stock C4, I loved the look of those Vettes back in the 80's... I was driving a Fiero instead, that's all I could afford at the time!!! lol

  • @ValkyriesMoon

    @ValkyriesMoon

    27 күн бұрын

    ​@@kfh1 firehawk of course. I own an 02. what's funny is an 88 fiero GT t-tops pull corvette money now. My 87 gt had to get an engine swap to not feel like it's dragging its ass.

  • @SquirminHermanthe1eyedGerman

    @SquirminHermanthe1eyedGerman

    27 күн бұрын

    Firehawk of course

  • @SquirminHermanthe1eyedGerman

    @SquirminHermanthe1eyedGerman

    27 күн бұрын

    @@kfh1 Fiero was a decent ride, I had a new '87 GT

  • @driverjamescopeland

    @driverjamescopeland

    27 күн бұрын

    Firehawk... simply because I couldn't afford the tires for the Corvette. Also, the only C4 ZR1 I would own, is the LT4 version... which came later. The DOHC Mercury 350 was an over-developed, over-engineered boat anchor.

  • @Danpopup
    @Danpopup26 күн бұрын

    I work for SLP in the early 2000's. We were doing the Firehawks and the Camaro SS. I worked on the hoods and spoilers for both as well as building the exhaust systems. I was there until GM closed the plant in Quebec. I loved the job.

  • @samueljackson2478

    @samueljackson2478

    26 күн бұрын

    Didn't SLP design the Comp Camero and Firebird?

  • @daveyboy_

    @daveyboy_

    26 күн бұрын

    Me too

  • @BlackRam17

    @BlackRam17

    26 күн бұрын

    Why did you guys go away from anything other than exhaust and an air box as far as performance goes post ‘92?

  • @daveyboy_

    @daveyboy_

    26 күн бұрын

    @BlackRam17 wjatchoo talkin bout Willis We did the diff. The tranny the engine the wheels

  • @4motofanatic

    @4motofanatic

    25 күн бұрын

    Hey Dan, I've a question for you. Being as you worked on the hoods, what did you guys use to cut the front bumper to clear the hawk hood to close. Cutting off those 2 dog ears on the factory bumper. I'm guessing a template of some kind and a hot knife?

  • @earlrichardson385
    @earlrichardson38527 күн бұрын

    I thought the coolest thing about SLP cars was they didn’t look outrageously different from stock like some aftermarket companies. If you didn’t know any better you just thought it had wheels and exhaust until it smoked you.

  • @monkeymouse1403

    @monkeymouse1403

    26 күн бұрын

    SLP performance package cars looked stock other than the exhaust tips and would run with the fastest GNs at a higher mph in the quarter back in 1989 or so

  • @sandasturner9529

    @sandasturner9529

    25 күн бұрын

    Sleeper looks

  • @Len1977gt

    @Len1977gt

    4 күн бұрын

    good point

  • @ajdahun
    @ajdahun27 күн бұрын

    You neglected a major fact regarding WHY this car was built. It had to do with a racing series called Showroom Stock. This was made to destroy anything in that racing series. And it did.

  • @StoffelDilligas

    @StoffelDilligas

    26 күн бұрын

    Never heard of this championship, will check it out. Thanks for mentioning it👍

  • @jamesmedina2062

    @jamesmedina2062

    26 күн бұрын

    Stock became showroom stock. What a deal!

  • @ajdahun

    @ajdahun

    25 күн бұрын

    @StoffelDilligas I believe the C4 vette did not meet the criteria to race in the series, hence the firehawk.

  • @DHolmquistDesigns

    @DHolmquistDesigns

    24 күн бұрын

    It’s wouldn’t have if the C4 wasn’t kicked out for being WAY faster than everything else, especially around a corner lol

  • @DHolmquistDesigns

    @DHolmquistDesigns

    24 күн бұрын

    @@ajdahunC4 met the criteria until they realized nothing else stood a chance against them so they made them get their own series aka the corvette challenge 😂

  • @thebionicbassplayer
    @thebionicbassplayer27 күн бұрын

    Do the 4th Gen Firehawk as well, great job on this video. Pontiac was always being treated like a red headed stepchild by GM, but always found a way to sidestep the corporate neutering.

  • @Gee_Jay

    @Gee_Jay

    20 күн бұрын

    Thanx to another vid, I discovered the GREAT Looking OG, 1964 Pontiac Banshee Concepts (XP-833), The long-nosed Silver 2-seat coupe looked SO Sweet - it could have been a Pontiac Corvette sibling, like the Camaro & Firebird sharing platforms - In fact, the 1st Banshee looked even smaller & lighter - Could have been quick with a six, at entry-level price, a 2-seater below the Vette - But SO Much Sweeter than a Fiero !

  • @TAWS-wq3hx

    @TAWS-wq3hx

    15 күн бұрын

    Naw overhyped LS

  • @TeamJesus515
    @TeamJesus51527 күн бұрын

    4th Gen Firehawk Ran air hood scoop was epic So yes video please

  • @Zzus321
    @Zzus32127 күн бұрын

    Back when Manual transmissions ruled the World

  • @adamweston4152

    @adamweston4152

    27 күн бұрын

    Manual gearboxes still rule the world in Europe, automatic boxes are for lazy ass people.

  • @Kuhladestkyicky

    @Kuhladestkyicky

    26 күн бұрын

    Now people think driving a stick is a massive accomplishment.

  • @presmasterflash7555

    @presmasterflash7555

    26 күн бұрын

    Remember when they were colloquially called “standard” because they were the standard and you upgraded to the automatic. If you didn’t mind paying the upcharge.

  • @Zzus321

    @Zzus321

    26 күн бұрын

    @@presmasterflash7555 Yup

  • @jokerzwild00

    @jokerzwild00

    26 күн бұрын

    Naw, back in the 80s automatic was pretty much the norm even for ""performance"" lol cars like the Firebird. In the US anyway. Were there more sticks back then? Sure. They definitely weren't the rule though. Most people just want to get from a to b with as little fuss as possible. Comparatively few people, then as well as now, want to row through gears everywhere they go. Think about what the top selling models have been through the years. Do the kinds of people who buy those cars care to manually shift their gears? Sticks did rule in high end, non-US actual performance cars though. Porsche, Ferrari, etc. It's a shame that now even in that category various automatic shift options have taken over.

  • @BigTimeRushFan2112
    @BigTimeRushFan211226 күн бұрын

    Remember when Buick destroyed the Vette years before this with the GNX? Pepperidge Farms sure does...

  • @thebigpicture2032

    @thebigpicture2032

    26 күн бұрын

    Pontiac borrowed their engine and put them in 1989 GTA’s. Those were the fastest Firebirds ever sold, even beating the mighty SD 455 and the LS1 cars.

  • @BlackRam17

    @BlackRam17

    26 күн бұрын

    The TTA did also

  • @BlackRam17

    @BlackRam17

    26 күн бұрын

    @@thebigpicture2032they put them in the Turbo TA, which was not a GTA.

  • @johnhutchison9782

    @johnhutchison9782

    26 күн бұрын

    .... On the next episode of "Where Are They Now?", the Buick GNX 😜

  • @BigTimeRushFan2112

    @BigTimeRushFan2112

    25 күн бұрын

    @@johnhutchison9782 sponsored by Pepperidge Farm Milano double milk chocolate cookies! PS bring your own glass of milk to the party...

  • @hailstorm1986
    @hailstorm198623 күн бұрын

    I'm a proud owner of a 94 SLP Firehawk that I purchased from the original owner who happened to have been on the coaching staff of the 49ers in the late 90s. I absolutely love my Firehawk and never thought in my wildest dreams that I would have been able to own one as soon as I did.😇🔥🦅

  • @dustinnorwood4696

    @dustinnorwood4696

    9 күн бұрын

    My mom bought a 94 brand new from a dealer in Houston. She would let me drive it occasionally throughout high school. Loved that car more than any other. Was sad when she sold it 7 years later. If I hadn't been a broke college student, I would have bought it off her in a second.

  • @hailstorm1986

    @hailstorm1986

    6 күн бұрын

    @@YankeeWoodcraft never said that. Why would you think that?? Are you ok??🤣

  • @hailstorm1986

    @hailstorm1986

    6 күн бұрын

    @@YankeeWoodcraft go get some help..

  • @mpound97
    @mpound9715 күн бұрын

    I've ALWAYS loved the "Firehawk". I still have "Car and Driver" magazines from the early 90's that showcased this car...

  • @judgegixxer
    @judgegixxer27 күн бұрын

    I remember these. I made my own version. I have a 91 Z28 1LE that I bought in 93’. A few years ago I put Zz6 350 in it with a 6 speed Tremec and and various other stuff. It’s 405hp/406ftlbs. I measured 4.4 0-60 multiple times so. It’s also red. Still have all the original parts.

  • @eriklarson9137

    @eriklarson9137

    27 күн бұрын

    0-60? Ok. What was the 1/4 mile? Something that matters. Lol.

  • @justins21482

    @justins21482

    26 күн бұрын

    @@eriklarson9137 I mean it cant be that far off could it. Id say he got close enough. after all he said he made HIS OWN VERSION. not an exact replica

  • @mikee2923

    @mikee2923

    26 күн бұрын

    I’ve owned a red 89 Formula 350 since 91. I always wanted to collect the pieces and convert it to a Firehawk but didn’t have the money to pull it off. But I did buy some of SLP’s performance upgrades like their intake runners. By the time I had the money to begin collecting the parts, they were discontinued. So I ended up putting a Paxton supercharger on it instead. That with all the other modifications done through the years puts it square into the same performance territory. Never raced it officially at the track, but I was able to walk away from an early LS1 Corvette back in the late 90s. My wife was able to embarrass a convertible LS1 Trans Am at a stoplight to the point the guy wouldn’t pull up next to her at the next light. It’s a nice sleeper because it appears stock and the Paxton is pretty quiet at idle.

  • @judgegixxer

    @judgegixxer

    25 күн бұрын

    @@eriklarson9137 closest drag strip to me is about a 1000 miles away. Obviously it would be around same time as fire hawk. It ain’t rocket science kid.

  • @anthonylaudano9435

    @anthonylaudano9435

    22 күн бұрын

    MAN THATS AWSOME I HAVE A 92 Z28 THAT I ORDERED NEW BACK IN 92 AND I STILL HAVE IT TODAY WITH 19 THOUSAND ORIGINAL MILES AND I WANTED T TOPS SO I COULDNT GET THE 5.7 350TPI WITH T TOPS LOL I DONT WANT TOO WRECK THE CAR BY TRYING TO MAKE IT AS FAST AS CARS OF TODAY BUT I WILL BE DOING A FULL EXHAUST AND I LOVE TOO BUY ANOTHER 92 Z28 WITH A LOT OF MILES SO I CAN MOD THAT AND LEAVE MY ORIGINAL Z28 ALONE BUT IF I WANT TOO GO FAST I HAVE A 850HP GT500 AND I HAVE 2 SUPER SNAKES LOL BUT IF I BUY ANOTHER Z28 MY PLAN IS TOO DO EXACTLY WHAT YOU DID BUT MY ORIGINAL Z IS STAYING THAT WAY.

  • @michaelm3381
    @michaelm338126 күн бұрын

    Another vote for a fourth gen Firehawk video. I have 3 fourth gen Firebirds and absolutely love these cars.

  • @SquirminHermanthe1eyedGerman
    @SquirminHermanthe1eyedGerman27 күн бұрын

    I bought a new '98 black/black Ttop Ram Air LS1 6sp Trans Am & my best friend one uped me by getting a new '99 black/tan Ttop Ram Air 6sp Firehawk & man was that machine bad ass & mine wasnt too shabby either! Wish I still had my 1st Trans Am, an '85 black/gold SE Bandit II Edition that I got in '87 & sold in '96 ✌💖☮

  • @thebigpicture2032

    @thebigpicture2032

    26 күн бұрын

    I feel ya! Bought a red 2000 WS6 TA vert 6 speed and workmate went and bought a red 2000 vert Firehawk which was #02 iirc. On the bright side, it did make for a cool parking lot and lively commutes home.

  • @SquirminHermanthe1eyedGerman

    @SquirminHermanthe1eyedGerman

    24 күн бұрын

    @@thebigpicture2032 oh yea, same here! We worked at the same place & had the 2 coolest cars in the parking lot & most times layin rubber on the way out! I also occasionally drove my 1976 Dodge California Custom van with shag carpet, CB, 8 track, mini bar & fridge, dual moonroofs, queen bed, Cragar SS mags on BFG white letter tires & a healthy 360 4bbl with side pipes! I sold it in 2014 for the right price now regret not having it...or my Trans Ams! My junior year in Hi Skool I got lucky & scored a bank repo 1978 gold Ttop Z28 for what was owed, $2000, love to have it back too

  • @CelebznbodysuitNeckMaskz

    @CelebznbodysuitNeckMaskz

    24 күн бұрын

    I have a 93 formula F1 now for last 4 yrs ..I'm mid 40s .I've had 6 total .. 84 trans am , 82 trans am with nos lol both auto Blk an gold non t top .. 79 t/a 10th 6.6 t top gold ..miss it .. 86 ta ,88ta , an current 93 formula f1

  • @SquirminHermanthe1eyedGerman

    @SquirminHermanthe1eyedGerman

    20 күн бұрын

    @@CelebznbodysuitNeckMaskz Nice...My 1st car was a '67 Firebird 326 then an '83 black T/A, '85 Bandit II & '98 LS1! Always liked those Formulas too even the Fiero Formula

  • @craigbaker9252
    @craigbaker925224 күн бұрын

    I ordered #36 1997 Firehawk. I last true Firehawk hood for that year. Triple black, Hurst Shifter on the 6 speed, aluminum wheels not the chrome. I did get the full synthetic package and heavy duty rearend that I damn near blew at a red light race in north Atlanta. Speedo went to 155mph, it would do that in 5th and then still pull faster on 6th. Absolute beast of a machine. Insurance killed me and I never got a ticket. Yes it beat Corvettes and 308 Ferrari’s. Kept it 4+ years then life happened. Damn I miss that car.

  • @strongislandautoenthusiast841
    @strongislandautoenthusiast84117 күн бұрын

    I remember the Pontiac Formula Firehawk and I remember my older brother trying to build his own Formula Firehark using his Formula as the donor car. As much as I personally liked the Pontiac Trans-Am, my first sports car was the 1980 Chevy Camaro Z28 with the Air Induction hood, front ground effects, side stone guards, rear spoiler, T-Tops and rear window louvers. What a great era for sports cars and car enthusiast.

  • @gordocarbo

    @gordocarbo

    9 күн бұрын

    Love those Zs. Have an 80 or 81 Steering wheel on my 67 El

  • @donaldcurtis9229

    @donaldcurtis9229

    7 күн бұрын

    I have a 84 Pontiac transempt.Fully loaded 305 air duction to ridgelawner 38800 miles on my car and I got a 97 Firebird formula transam.L t one build to the hill

  • @donaldcurtis9229

    @donaldcurtis9229

    7 күн бұрын

    38803

  • @samueljackson2478
    @samueljackson247826 күн бұрын

    Don't forget the Callaway Sledgehammer 5.7 Twin Turbo V8 Top Speed 255 Mph .

  • @johnnyd6878
    @johnnyd687827 күн бұрын

    I had an ‘83 T/A. Super fun for a high school kid in the mid 90’s

  • @rarecars3336

    @rarecars3336

    27 күн бұрын

    That’s an awesome high school car

  • @billymanilli

    @billymanilli

    Күн бұрын

    I daily drove an '84 TA in high school... absolutely LOVED it White with black trim, two tone grey interior, 5 speed... was SUPER CLEAN and I put Weld pro stars on it.. I got compliments all of the time on it I still have it, 25+ years later... I want to restore it to the way it was back then, but money and time just aren't things that I have right now, unfortunately!

  • @joshthemediocre7824
    @joshthemediocre782427 күн бұрын

    Before the internet i spent so much time looking through auto traders from all over the US. I've always loved a Firehawk, i've watched them go from being super steals to going through the roof in prices over the last 30 years, like everything i guess, or everything that a bunch of people think is cool. They are great looking super rare cars, but yeah i'd rather have a c4 ZR1 than any of them.

  • @robertf9521
    @robertf952126 күн бұрын

    SLP continued into the 5th gen camero and may have been why GM brought back the supercharged ZL1!

  • @wizerulz
    @wizerulz26 күн бұрын

    In 1997 I bought a 4th gen 93 Firehawk, 6 speed manual, I loved that car and it had the best sounding exhaust system with dual outlets in the drivers side. Leather interior/t tops total dream car. I put a short throw shifter, roller rockers and an Aluminum SLP flywheel with the stronger LT4 clutch, that car was a true delight to drive. The 4th gen’s rode better than the third gen’s and seemed more stable SLP was commissioned by Rick Hendrick in Charlotte to build commemorative 30th anniversary Camaros so I had a great privilege to actually work for SLP in their shop in Charlotte until the build out was completed.

  • @samueljackson2478
    @samueljackson247826 күн бұрын

    Don't forget the last Firehawk ever made in 2009. The Pontiac G8 Firehawk 4 door sedan.

  • @duanenicpon8024

    @duanenicpon8024

    25 күн бұрын

    I remember the president of the Illinois Pontiac Chapter bought one...500 hp I believe.

  • @carrsllccarrillo6507

    @carrsllccarrillo6507

    24 күн бұрын

    This day I think that G8 should of used a different name then "Firehawk" for their top tier performance model. Funny thing is you could of only get the G8 firehawk in automatic! I mean really? Because the G8 GXP was available in stick!

  • @dmo848

    @dmo848

    13 күн бұрын

    Almost bought it also but I didn't cause I just got laid off at the time

  • @MichaelPendergraft-wg4it
    @MichaelPendergraft-wg4it25 күн бұрын

    Yes please 4th Firehawk video please!

  • @ejgrant5191
    @ejgrant519126 күн бұрын

    The intake maifold on those was designed by noted Engine Developer Ryan Falconer who also did other projects for GM like the Splayed Valve Indy V6 turbo stock block motor and the 1200HP IMSA Corvette GTP twin turbo V6's. They made FAR more HP than any other intake in that era. Falconer also used those V6 program heads to create his V12 motor most commonly found in experimental aircraft these days. Brilliant man.

  • @monkeymouse1403

    @monkeymouse1403

    25 күн бұрын

    Incorrect, the TPIS miniram made more HP, but less TQ than the SLP intake. GM later copied the Miniram as it looks almost identical to the LT1 intake that debuted in 1992.

  • @mikeks8181
    @mikeks818127 күн бұрын

    Firehawk!!!!

  • @rarecars3336

    @rarecars3336

    27 күн бұрын

    I would have to agree

  • @hambone1104
    @hambone110427 күн бұрын

    4th gen would be great. Thank you again for your videos. Well done.

  • @Graves-81_69
    @Graves-81_6926 күн бұрын

    I had the opportunity to drive the last generation FireHawk back in the early 2000s and I loved it more than any Corvette at the time. I think it was the best version of the Firebird that was ever produced

  • @Blas4ublasphemy

    @Blas4ublasphemy

    21 күн бұрын

    Cool cars for sure but come on, a C5 Z06 is better in every way...

  • @Kdog307
    @Kdog30726 күн бұрын

    had a 88 iroc-z z-28 and the doors would rattle on every pebble, but hell even my best friends mom had to go for a ride in it lol miss that girl(the car)

  • @Funtimes670
    @Funtimes67027 күн бұрын

    SLP!

  • @carlmcgarry1823
    @carlmcgarry182327 күн бұрын

    My 97 trans am is outa sight. . Heads, brakes, Tremec 6 sp, and much more. Its still my summer only driver. 50 k miles. I love it.... Cannot give it up. Its like new, and get looks on cruise night. CM I loved the firehawk when it camre out, but didnt have the bread to buy one. Beautiful car. My choice.

  • @grantman64
    @grantman6426 күн бұрын

    Great video on the OG Firehawk!! Definitely want to see a follow-up video on the 4th-gen Firehawk, as I have a 1996 Comp T/A - which is basically a combination of Firehawk and Pontiac Trans AM WS6 hardware with specific cosmetics to celebrate the 25th anniversary of BF Goodrich's Comp T/A performance tire.

  • @ar2043
    @ar204326 күн бұрын

    Absolutely love this channel and its content!!!

  • @brianholland2916
    @brianholland291621 күн бұрын

    Awwwww the good old days!!!

  • @petertornabeni602
    @petertornabeni60226 күн бұрын

    This is a great video, I appreciate your work on this !

  • @bobbyshaftoe
    @bobbyshaftoe25 күн бұрын

    'with their transams'???? The GOAT is litterally... The Goat.

  • @dasfahrer8187
    @dasfahrer818725 күн бұрын

    I had forgotten about this car. It was so cool when I first saw one on the street back in the day.

  • @boosk2127
    @boosk212714 күн бұрын

    I remember seeing a 30min infomercial on the fireworks. Was quite impressed then

  • @chriskrueger8225
    @chriskrueger822524 күн бұрын

    I had an 89 GTA with the 5.7TPI and T-Tops. I got rid of it about 10 years ago. I miss that car so much!

  • @Apexmissed
    @Apexmissed27 күн бұрын

    Awesome vid!

  • @bitedawg
    @bitedawg9 күн бұрын

    always great videos!

  • @mitchellholroyd2837
    @mitchellholroyd283723 күн бұрын

    Firehawk was my dream vehicle

  • @jonleonguerrero
    @jonleonguerrero3 күн бұрын

    Great content. Excellent job.

  • @richki.24
    @richki.2426 күн бұрын

    I worked with a guy that had one back in 1994/1995 ... I always asked him if he wanted to sell, he always said no ...

  • @Gee_Jay
    @Gee_Jay20 күн бұрын

    Just 25 third gens ever made ? - Shame ! - Please do the 4th gen too - I LOVE those 90s Firebird LOOKS!

  • @rarecars3336

    @rarecars3336

    20 күн бұрын

    Will do! Thanks for watching!

  • @lee161a
    @lee161a26 күн бұрын

    Pontiac also had an IRS project for the firebird, in the firefox II, around the same time

  • @carrsllccarrillo6507

    @carrsllccarrillo6507

    24 күн бұрын

    Got the article on that in High Performance Pontiac 1988. The test mule was on a black GTA TA.

  • @liquidleopard4495

    @liquidleopard4495

    24 күн бұрын

    And their project was using coil springs, unlike the Corvette.

  • @Kdog307
    @Kdog30726 күн бұрын

    4th gen vid 4th gen vid!!!!!

  • @vladpootin5973
    @vladpootin597324 күн бұрын

    A 1991 Pontiac Firehawk has performance that could still hold its own against many of today‘s modern sportscars,

  • @stevebecwar9286
    @stevebecwar928626 күн бұрын

    4th gen video

  • @digitalmagicAR
    @digitalmagicAR19 күн бұрын

    I certainly remember those. Amazing cars, great looking, factory orderable and with a warranty. The dealer brochure actually mentioned SLP but didn't show the Firehawk. The 4th gen cars were more affordable since they needed less modifications. The SLP Firehawks were fantastic until the end.

  • @mach1mustangguy992
    @mach1mustangguy99226 күн бұрын

    this is my ultimate GM performance car beside the grand national....this is on my bucket list of cars....i saw one of these this weekend at the obx rod & custom festival

  • @chrisperez8092
    @chrisperez809226 күн бұрын

    Awesome job!!!

  • @keith455-73
    @keith455-7327 күн бұрын

    Pontiac being under General Motors is like Texas being under the United States, yeah it is a part of it, but it is still it’s own unique entity. 👍👍😁😁

  • @rudimerm7686
    @rudimerm768626 күн бұрын

    The SLP and Lingenfelter intakes is what made these cars come alive.

  • @henrywashington3732
    @henrywashington373225 күн бұрын

    I have a black 97 bird with 3.8 and T-Tops. I need that furehawk hood, cause it look sick!😮

  • @CousinSteve
    @CousinSteve25 күн бұрын

    I had a 2002 WS6 and it was the best car I've ever driven. Obviously not the fastest but just the most badass

  • @darwinortiz6394
    @darwinortiz63945 күн бұрын

    Great video.

  • @brgable
    @brgable24 күн бұрын

    I bought a 95 Firehawk in 99 it had 3k miles on it. Love that car they are a blast to drive. Still own it with 32k miles on it.

  • @komradkolonel
    @komradkolonel27 күн бұрын

    There was also the 1982 Trans Am that would have had the 301 turbo V-8 that was used in the 1980-81 Trams Am Turbo. Now that engine's numbers weren't anything like the big blocks put out a decade earlier but it had enough torque to make that Trans Am both quicker and faster than the 1982 Corvette. Supposedly the Chevy brass had not only a cow but a whole barnyard when they learned what Pontiac had in mind. You could say they basically bulled the GM executives to make Pontiac use the underpowered 305 instead.

  • @ValkyriesMoon

    @ValkyriesMoon

    27 күн бұрын

    The 301 turbo made like 210hp and alot of torque which wasnt bad for the time.

  • @mikee2923

    @mikee2923

    26 күн бұрын

    Yes. 210 HP in an early 3rd Gen would’ve been awesome. Plus it would’ve made swapping in a Pontiac 400 or 455 a simple bolt in affair like swapping out a 305 for a 350. This was supposed to be the plan as evidenced by driver’s side bulge in the hood of all 3rd Gen T/As and Formulas similar to the 80-81 Turbo T/A. Even though the 301 turbo wasn’t very exciting in the late 2nd Gen, the 3rd Gen was about 500lbs lighter. Imagine what it would’ve been making when GM finally sorted out EFI. But of course Chevy probably cried because the Corvette was only making about the same with 350CI. They knew what Pontiac was capable of. It took Chevy until 1985 to make 235 HP with the TPI. But instead the T/A was neutered with the Chevy 305. They kept the bulge for ascetics.

  • @Brzypoint
    @BrzypointКүн бұрын

    I am still the original owner of a dark blue 2002 (Last of the Breed) Firehawk convertible with a 4 speed auto. The build out of mine is one of 18. It has around 28,000 miles on it. I still drive it every summer on super nice days, about 500 miles a year. Never seen snow and MAYBE a handful of rainy days...It has all the bolt ons, headers, cat delete, 3" all the way back to the muller etc... and I still retain the stock parts. Made 393 RWHP with a tune. Welded subframe connectors and strut tower brace really make it a solid car, zero cowl shake! Best run in the 1/4 is 12.82 @ 108. Super fun car!!!

  • @TheWolfMatt
    @TheWolfMatt22 күн бұрын

    The Firehawk and later Camaro SS SLP were a favorite of mine growing up. I had learned about the SLP Firehawk through the dealer that I would occasionally get parts from to build my 78 Firebird Formula only to fall in love with one sitting in their showroom floor. What a beastly car to say the very least about it. Wish I was able to afford one back in the day as I'd imagine they'd probably go for about 100k if they were taken care of and low miles. Please post a 4th gen version to commemorate these. Nicely done video bud, brought me back down memory lane.

  • @buckodonnghaile4309
    @buckodonnghaile430926 күн бұрын

    I remember hearing a little about them as a teenager back then, but drove an 87 Grand Am because it was close to free. Great video, learned a ton.

  • @davidstansell3463
    @davidstansell346326 күн бұрын

    That was awesome I want to hear more

  • @jeffwolf8018
    @jeffwolf801825 күн бұрын

    Back and I believe 88 or 89 my half-brother bought a Pontiac formula 350 with a WS suspension manual transmission. That car was amazing. At the time he had the highest speeding ticket in all of Massachusetts that he got living on Cape Cod..

  • @toddprater14

    @toddprater14

    24 күн бұрын

    No 350 cars came with a manual stock..if that car was a 5 speed it was a 305…and them years you mentioned ..the 305 cars just said “formula “ on outside doors …the 350 cars said formula 350…

  • @TA1905
    @TA190523 күн бұрын

    Awesome, always loved the 3rd gen firehawk. I have slp parts fitted my one.

  • @haroldstrickland8416
    @haroldstrickland841625 күн бұрын

    I remember being in high school & drooling over the SLP Firehawk.

  • @William-Bill-Munny
    @William-Bill-Munny21 күн бұрын

    I began working for Brembo NA around the time this car and the Mustang Cobra R came out with Brembo factory brakes. It was a great time to be part of the building factory specials groundswell. The SLP was a hidden gem favorite of mine, yet many still have no idea it even existed.

  • @rarecars3336

    @rarecars3336

    20 күн бұрын

    That is awesome that you were behind the scenes working on some of those projects - the Cobra R is such an awesome car. The early 2000s were those last years of really analog feeling cars still but with some refinements

  • @billymanilli
    @billymanilliКүн бұрын

    I bought one of those dana 44s from E-town swap meet around 10 years ago for 200 bucks... lmao I couldn't believe it, Guy had no idea what he had. not saying it was "out of a Firehawk", or anything... it was probably just bought from the dealer, but they're still REALLY rare pieces and doesn't break with 150 hp like the stock ones do. Made me and my 84 TA happy that day!

  • @scottosborne3042
    @scottosborne304221 күн бұрын

    The Firehawk was a Fantastic Ride!! Came with a roll cage in it ..remember the Dealership in the town in my high school yes had 1 in the showroom in 92 or 93? It was a dream car

  • @rarecars3336

    @rarecars3336

    20 күн бұрын

    Wow one of the very few that exists was in your town - how cool is that?!

  • @blazinsaddlez5134
    @blazinsaddlez513420 күн бұрын

    Thanks for teaching me about the generations. My favorite dream cars or definitely mid to late 80s firebird and z28s so I'd really like to learn more if possible.

  • @rarecars3336

    @rarecars3336

    20 күн бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed! They are classics and finally starting to get the recognition they deserve!

  • @StoneyBrownTV
    @StoneyBrownTV26 күн бұрын

    I've always loved the Firebird. My mother had one when I was a young child and I've always had a fondness for this car.

  • @SuperSnakePlissken
    @SuperSnakePlissken21 күн бұрын

    My Dad has a 1993 Pontiac Firehawk in a spectacular dark green that looked black in low light. That car stated 300 HP, but my Dad took me with him when he had it dynoed in the mid-1990s and his clocked in at 321 HP. I don't remember the torque number because at that time of my life I didn't understand what torque was. That car was incredibly fun to ride in and eventually drive. We lived in Florida so we had the T-top open all of the time. Sadly, that car got rear ended when my parents were on a date and it totaled it out. It was definitely a car of its time and a ton of fun.

  • @VintageWheelsTV-36
    @VintageWheelsTV-3612 күн бұрын

    I work for SLP in the early 2000's. We were doing the Firehawks and the Camaro SS. I worked on the hoods and spoilers for both as well as building the exhaust systems. I was there until GM closed the plant in Quebec.

  • @gringoespana
    @gringoespana25 күн бұрын

    Loved this car back in the day. Y'all do videos on imports? I had a 1992 Mitsubishi Galant VR4 once upon a time. Rare car, awd, all wheel steering and turbo charged 4 door. Freaking loved it

  • @Jdub6580
    @Jdub658027 күн бұрын

    I'm not capable of scrolling past a keyword that reads Firehawk.

  • @TheMattC9999
    @TheMattC999921 күн бұрын

    They should have used the Trans Am GTA as the base model. It was just so much better looking.

  • @eriklarson9137
    @eriklarson913727 күн бұрын

    3500 pounds. 300 crank HP? Batten the hatches boys!

  • @liquidleopard4495

    @liquidleopard4495

    24 күн бұрын

    Did you actually watch the video? 3400 lbs and 350+ SLP said you were getting *at least* 350hp. They never said you were *only* getting 350hp. Tire technology at the time couldn't deal with it very well. Firehawks in the IMSA Showroom Stock series were said to spin the tires on straightaways.

  • @allenkranawetter9482
    @allenkranawetter948225 күн бұрын

    Just awesome. I've heard of the firebird Firehawk

  • @retrobear9367
    @retrobear936721 күн бұрын

    This body style with the ground effects and the lt1 ws6 are my fav body styles of the Firebird. I had a 97 ws6

  • @kellyhahn6145
    @kellyhahn61455 күн бұрын

    My boss (owner of the company) ordered 1992 Firehawk #11, waited months to get it, then traded it in about 7 years later with about 300 miles on it, without telling me. I wanted that car.

  • @csj9619
    @csj961927 күн бұрын

    My brother had a '94 Formula Firebird and that car was super fun, but I prefer the body style featured in this video as far as looks go. 275HP LT1, same as a Z-28 Camaro.

  • @toddprater14

    @toddprater14

    24 күн бұрын

    The third gens look way better than the 4th gens..they look like a jellybean…now the 98-02 ws6 transam is definitely the better looking of the 2 , 4th gens..being gen x I have a soft spot for the 89-92 irocs and trans ams and formula firebirds ..

  • @murderbirdLTX

    @murderbirdLTX

    24 күн бұрын

    ​@@toddprater14what ?

  • @ZZ48UUP
    @ZZ48UUP23 күн бұрын

    I dropped a ZZ4 into an 87 Z28 with a 5 speed that was originally equipped with an LG4. It walked away from everything. I mean EVERYTHING! I had an MSD 6AL to stop it from overrevving because the ZZ4 just never stopped pulling. And when I went in for emissions, it passed in 15 seconds. I remember the reps at the state shaking their head wondering how it passed so fast because the engine LOOKED stock and the original drivetrain wouldn't pass that easily. ZZ4 was incredible. And then the LS1 became a dime a dozen

  • @user-gj9tm9xd7g
    @user-gj9tm9xd7g25 күн бұрын

    Awesome!!

  • @armandopatane5343
    @armandopatane534326 күн бұрын

    Love Pontiac and miss them very much

  • @travisbarcus6226
    @travisbarcus622624 күн бұрын

    Fourth gen. firehawk... let's go!!!

  • @HtownP
    @HtownP2 күн бұрын

    My boy has a fire chicken with the LT1 6spd. That car is fun as hell

  • @stevenbelue5496
    @stevenbelue549620 күн бұрын

    The zf s6-40 is a beastly huge trans, i picked up one to put in my 3rd gen and SLP pulled a rabbit out of the hat making it work in a 3rd gen.

  • @joepennRR1
    @joepennRR126 күн бұрын

    Awesome video I have a green 4th generation I'd love to see that video

  • @sethminskey
    @sethminskey8 күн бұрын

    Definitely would love to see a part 2 video on the new platform Bird

  • @lego4virgo
    @lego4virgo24 күн бұрын

    I sat at a light of a major intersection, and watched as a 4th-gen Toyota Supra Turbo raced a 4th-gen Pontiac Firebird SLP Firehawk, blowing past on the cross street. It was 2:00 am in the morning, and it was amazing to see.

  • @johnelliott7375
    @johnelliott737526 күн бұрын

    The 3rd gen eventually got my acceptance aftymy one friend who had gotten one new in 1992 and beat it every way but Sunday it was good looking, reliable, and just a great cruisers that if you did the maintenance. Great evening, great job and thanks for sharing this anomaly with me and my family/friends!

  • @johnscustomsaws
    @johnscustomsaws15 күн бұрын

    SLP Firehawk was definitely a nice ride... But my V-6 mustang would eat it for lunch... And before you laugh... I have blue plug-wires and a K&N air filter sticker 😳

  • @frankartale1026
    @frankartale102626 күн бұрын

    Pontiac was the best division. I had an 88 Formula 305 tpi 5spd with stock 3.45 borg warner rear and stock optional dual converter exhaust. It ran 14.3 @ 94 at the track with no mods!! with a 305 !! these cars had more power than advertised. My Formula was faster than my 5.7 89 GTA was... but not by much

  • @carrsllccarrillo6507

    @carrsllccarrillo6507

    24 күн бұрын

    Nice! Interesting enough I once drag stripped my 89 GTA 350 and my best time was a 14.2 at 94mph. The only mods I had done was rear LCAs and KYBs adjustable shocks. Other then that it was all stock. I actually dragged a guy who had a formula 305 w/stick and I was barely able to beat him at the line. So yes I agree both were pretty close in performance. Mind you a GTA is a bit heavier with the ground F/X and the heavier lumbar seats. So that extra 25 extra ponies helped a bit. I wish I had a hardtop formula 350 with minimal options and the WS6 suspension because that would be the super light car and I believe they would be the best strip performing cars when done right.

  • @Curtis1984
    @Curtis198426 күн бұрын

    @0:46 ripping it in the neighborhood lol

  • @kaoswithkc
    @kaoswithkc9 күн бұрын

    Enjoyed

  • @marcodarko6941
    @marcodarko694125 күн бұрын

    Love the third gen myself, I grew up on Nightrider and even had the "Big wheel" once to prove my solidarity. But really mom had gold '79 with the 403 as far back as I can remember, that shaker hood in my face.. I remember always trying to look over the top of that dash trying to watch it and listening to the exhaust notes with the windows down.. she always told me to sit down and put on my seatbelt. 😁 For what it is it was certainly the coolest car around to me at least at 4 or 5 years old.😎

  • @4yules
    @4yules27 күн бұрын

    firehawk cars are definitly worthy cars...they made a g8 gxp firehawk too

  • @rarecars3336

    @rarecars3336

    27 күн бұрын

    The G8 is such an underrated car

  • @satellite92804
    @satellite9280426 күн бұрын

    I remember when I saw it on Motorweek. I was in love.

  • @jamesschoonover5068
    @jamesschoonover506824 күн бұрын

    Thanks for the details here. Love the SLP Firehawk, but did not know it was available on the third gen...interesting.

  • @scottandrews4822
    @scottandrews482223 күн бұрын

    Please do a video on the 4th gen Firehawk! Great video!

  • @BlairAir
    @BlairAir24 күн бұрын

    This one really met the Channel Moniker. 25 vehicles is about as rare as it gets, barely a step above one-off.

  • @hpmetabolics7558
    @hpmetabolics755822 күн бұрын

    I worked as a baggage clerk growing up in Texas and now realize that my suburb had a unique affinity for rare special cars. A guy drove up in one of these in black and my jaw dropped. Once he knew that I knew what it was he just grinned and walked in the store(saw it often afterwards). Someone had the first gen M3, I remember the 924 new and that Chevy SS.

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