1989 Pontiac GTA WS6 review from North America
"My first love"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
When I first purchased the car (4000$), I had to replace the battery,2 rear tires, and change the brakes. However, I knew that would have to be done prior to the purchase.
Exterior has a chip on the spoiler, and the front bumper.
The engine was rebuilt at 148,000km by the previous owner, and the appearance, and the receipts proved it.
Transmission is still original!!! And runs very smooth.
Interior seats are in perfect condition, except the roof cover has 1 spot that sags, but it doesn't disturb me in any way.
Overall excellent condition, and the car was being sold because the guy needed the money.
General comments?
This is a very solid car (tougher than rocks),and I bought it because of these very reviews. Maybe I'm not qualified to comment on this yet, but I believe this is an extremely reliable car, even though I only had it for 1000km. Power everything still works!! And the car is older than 18 years.
During my first test drive, we timed 0-60 in under 6 seconds and the only after market part is a dual exhaust system that makes the v8 sound like thunder!! That alone persuaded me into buying the car. The appearance and the sound of the car gathers much attention from walking pedestrians, and especially the police. One even pulled me over to compliment me on the car!! Another one pulled me over for no apparent reason, he probably thought I stole it!!
The reasons I bought the car are because it is beautiful, powerful, reliable, and ORIGINAL. I am only 22 and this is my first car, and it makes me very proud. I'm glad I didn't listen to those who tried to persuade me into a civic. I haven't been challenged yet on the road, but I feel pretty confident that whoever does, won't even be a challenge.
The negative thing of owning a sports car is the insurance rates (446 a month), gas, and a frequent exchange of tires, brakes. However, the sound of the engine replaces all that. It's simply amazing, and when driving I feel like I'm on top of the world. All my problems seem to disintegrate the very moment I start the car. I feel free, and feel like I could fly, and those are feelings that you cannot buy because they are priceless.
Recommended Reviews:
![]() | 1991 - GTA Firebird 5.7L Gasoline V8 Kick-ass looking, sounding and performing car |
![]() ![]() | The GTA (89) is a grade A tourer |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1989 |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | V8 5.7L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 155000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 156000 kilometres |
| Date of Entry | 6th September, 2007 |




