1993-2002 Pontiac Firebird: Road Test

Updated: 11/23/08

1996 Pontiac Firebird 2-door coupe
2002 Pontiac Firebird
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1993-2002 Pontiac Firebird 

  • Price Range:  $1,500 - $13,100
CG Rating

39

out of 100

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Our road test for the 1993-2002 Pontiac Firebird includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1993-2002 Pontiac Firebird and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1993-2002 Pontiac Firebird is right for you.

Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation

Few cars can match the level of performance of a Firebird. V8 versions promise acceleration of the sort that shoves your spine right into the seatback. V6 powered 'birds aren't exactly slugs, either. With manual shift, in particular, they feel lively enough in everyday driving. The stronger 3.8-liter V6 delivers particularly brisk acceleration and strong passing power. Also, the V6 is considerably more fuel efficient, netting 17-20 mpg versus 15 for the V8 models. Available traction control on recent models helps deal with horrendous grip on slippery pavement. Even a base-model Firebird holds the road well, though naturally not with the tenacious grip delivered by the Formula and Trans Am cars. On the downside, those low-profile tires on V8 models roar over most pavement surfaces. They also combine with stiff suspension, to produce a jarring ride over bumpy roads. Firebird's low-slung cockpit is best for two adults. Getting into the rear and finding a comfortable home back there is a challenge. Even children might have trouble. Up front, a hump in the floor cuts into passenger leg room. Cargo space is adequate, as long as you don't expect too much. Structural rigidity and assembly quality are much better than in prior Firebird generations.
Value for the Money
Firebirds are styled more aggressively than Ford's Mustang, and exhibit more muscle-car character, though a Mustang is easier to live with for everyday driving.
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Expert Ratings Summary

Category Pontiac Firebird Trans Am automatic Rating
Performance 8
Fuel Economy 2
Ride Quality 3
Steering/Handling/Braking 8
Quietness 2
Controls/Materials 6
Interior Room 4
Room/Comfort (rear) 2
Cargo Capacity 1
Value within Class 3
Total Score: 39

Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room, Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.

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