2001 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am WS6 review from North America

Brake rotors were resurfaced and turned multiple times by the dealer during the first 10,000 miles. I finally replaced the brakes with aftermarket components and have had no problems since.

Rear pinion seal replaced at 16,000 miles.

First tune-up required at 23,000 miles.

Factory battery replaced at 25,000 miles.

T-tops began to leak at 30,000 miles.

Driver's side fog lamp took in water and shorted out at 40,000 miles.

Exhaust manifold gasket replaced at 47,000 miles.

O2 sensor replaced at 50,000 miles.

Engine consumes about 1-1.5 quarts of oil between oil changes.

#1 cylinder piston slaps when engine is cold.

The engine emits a knock between 1,500 and 2,000 RPMs.

All exterior and interior lights flicker when engine is running. Dealer cannot trace problem.

Rear end grinds while making turns.

Air conditioner fan becomes inoperable after several hours of operation.

Remote deck lid release doesn't fully release the hatch on the first try.

Seems like a-lot of problems, but this has been a pretty reliable car nonetheless.

This car has made well beyond 50 passes on the local drag strip, as well as countless stop light battles. The automatic transmission continues to shift smoothly and the engine still purrs like a lion after 51,000 brutal miles. I am truly impressed with the overall durability and reliability of the drivetrain.

The 'leather' seats provide adequate comfort, but I feel that for the price... the materials could be of better quality. That applies to most of the interior as well. Heated and memory seating would have been welcomed, especially in the $30,000+ price range.

Fuel economy is acceptable for a 325 hp car that tips the scales at almost 3,500 lbs. I've gotten as much as 28 mpg on the highway. Unfortunately, the fuel tank is on the small side and mpg in the city is poor... especially for someone like me who tends to have a lead foot at times.

Ride quality is what one would expect in a car of this caliber. Jarring and unforgiving. Road noise intrudes the cabin as does squeaks and rattles here and there. Bottom line, this isn't a luxury car. If it is a quiet and supple ride you seek, search elsewhere!

Handling is crisp, courtesy of the steam roller sized tires. The car feels stable in the turns and is nimble for quick and effortless maneuvers... but not to the extreme of BMW territory. The suspension design is about as technologically advanced as a shopping cart, but it provides the Trans Am with what it needs to please the average driver. Looking for a superior auto-x vehicle? Search elsewhere.

Let's face it, these things move! Every time I step into the accelerator, I can't help, but have a big grin on my face. 0-60 comes in a brief 5.5 seconds (5.3 in cars equipped with the 6-speed manual) and a quarter mile is covered in less than 14 seconds at speeds above 100 mph. Passing in the left lane has never been so effortless, making highway travel a blast.

The car is just practical enough to be a decent daily commuter, save for the rather high fuel consumption in the city. However, tires can get pricey... and the performance Z-rated tires designed for this car have a very short life span. They are geared toward performance rather than longevity.

The level of comfort and reliability are much higher than people tend to believe, also contributing to their practicality. Automotive publications such as Consumer Reports do no justice for these cars. They ARE reliable, and so long as you don't mind the low seating position, higher than average road noise, stiff suspension settings and minor quirks as the result of poor quality control... they aren't that difficult to live with.

Looking for a 'modern' hot rod bargain? Look no further than the Trans Am.