Description
Capitalising on the arrival of its new V8 engine in 1955, General Motors’ Pontiac division reinvented itself for 1960s, adopting a sporting, youthful image promoted by a series of evocatively named high-performance models: Bonneville, GTO, Grand Prix, Firebird and Trans Am. Such was the success of this policy that Pontiac occupied third place in the US auto sales chart for most of the decade. Effectively an up-market Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac’s Firebird was introduced in February 1967 using the same bodyshell as its Chevrolet counterpart but readily distinguishable by its divided front grille. Engines ranged from a 230ci (3.8-litre) overhead-cam six to a 400ci (6.6-litre) 325bhp V8. Two body styles were offered: a two-door hardtop coupé and similar convertible, while the Firebird could be ordered with any of the Tempest or GTO power-trains and a variety of ‘regular production option’ (RPO) combinations that effectively extended the range to five models in total. Having been introduced mid-way through the 1967 model year, the Firebird went into 1968 altered only in detail before being more extensively restyled towards the end of the year in line with changes made to the Camaro. In addition to the base-level six, RPO engine packages comprised two 350ci (5.7-litre) V8s and a trio of 400ci units of varying power outputs.
This Firebird offered today is a 2-owner from new car supported by a full history and even its original bill of sale. Starting life with the Greaves family in New York the car was imported to the UK on 12th July 1982. With 54,400 strictly dry miles on the clock the car is still largely in original condition, even with its original factory fitted tyres.
Having been wax-oiled when new and stored in a heated garage for most of its life, the car is rust free, runs very smoothly and the interior is described as being ‘like new’. What better way to bring in the warm season than with this Classic American cruiser.
