1987 Pontiac Firebird Formula 350 review from North America
"Great bang for the buck!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The woman who owned it before me never changed the oil and as a result, I had bearing wear by 60,000 miles. But I don't blame that on GM.. the car was abused by its first owner. An engine rebuild was OK with me because it gave me an opportunity to add on some "go- fast goodies" to make the car much more powerful than stock.
The horsepower today is now around 325HP (up from 225 stock), and it runs like a banshee!! I destroy any Mustang GT that gets in my path!
Other problems have been minimal..alternator, brakes and lots of tires. Interior is still immaculate today after 15 years. I just recharged the R-12 freon for the first time since the car was new! I've replaced some rubber parts due to dry rot, but overall since the rebuild, it has been a very fast, solid and reliable ride.
General comments?
The car is still a head-turner today.
I recommend that if you buy any Firebird from the late 80's, you make the investment to modify the exhaust system. Go with headers and a 3 inch Cat-back system. SLP Stainless System or Flowmaster would be the products you need to check out. Throttle response is very noticeably improved!
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1987 |
| First year of ownership | 1991 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 5.7 Litre Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 34000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 81000 miles |
| Previous car | Buick Regal |
| Date of Entry | 17th January, 2002 |