1989 Pontiac Firebird

1989 Pontiac Firebird GTA

1989 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am celebrated its 20th anniversary in 1989, and Pontiac responded with a special gift to fans: an anniversary edition with a turbocharged 3.8-liter V-6 engine beneath the hood. Last seen powering Buick’s sizzling Grand National and GNX, the 250-horse-power turbo — cranking out an imposing 340 pounds — feet of torque-sliced 0-60 mph acceleration times to an astounding five seconds or less.

The Turbo Trans Am (TTA) based on the GTA and originally developed for the Buick Regal Grand National. It was clocked by Hod Rod for reaching the quarter mile in 14.2 second at 97.8 mph. Also new for this year was the notchback style hatch that was introduced on the Trans Am GTA and made it look very much like a coupe.

Four-wheel power disc brakes are standard in the 1989 Pontiac Firebird to control those 250 horses, but antilock brakes aren’t even an option to ensure steady, straight stopping regardless of road surface. Of course, with 250 h.p. at your touch, the Anniversary Trans Am is a seasonal car to be garaged when snow, rain or even a few beads of perspiration settle on the roadway.

1989 Pontiac Firebird models optioned with t-tops receive new Lexan plastic tops. The new tops are lighter in weight and tinted darker, but are more dome shaped and age rapidly. GM replaces many sets with glass under warranty, but the Lexan tops continue through 1992. All rear disc brake optioned Firebirds now receive PBR brake calipers and larger brake rotors. This resolved issues GM encountered with the earlier rear discs, and increased stopping power.

Auto thieves, on the other hand, adored Firebirds. Along with Camaro, it topped the list of favored targets. GM responded with a “pass key” theft-deterrent system for the 1989 Pontiac Firebird model. Rear shoulder belts now were standard. So were 4-wheel disc brakes-at least in Firebirds with the hottest engines.

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