1993-2002 Pontiac Firebird: Year-to-Year Changes
Updated: 11/23/08
2002 Pontiac Firebird
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1993-2002 Pontiac Firebird ▼
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Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1993-2002 Pontiac Firebird. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1993-2002 Pontiac Firebird.
Year to Year Changes
1994 Pontiac Firebird:
A top-line Trans Am GT arrived for '94. This year, as a fuel-economy measure, the 6-speed manual gearbox added a system that forced the gearshift to go from first gear directly into fourth under light-throttle acceleration. Later in the 1994 model year, a convertible debuted with a standard power top and a glass rear window. Convertibles came in all three levels: base, Formula, and Trans Am.
1995 Pontiac Firebird:
After the model year began, a traction-control system became available for Firebirds with the V8 engine. The line-topping Trans Am GT was dropped after a single season on the market. Late in 1995, Pontiac added a 3.8-liter V6 engine option, making 200 horsepower rather than 160.
1996 Pontiac Firebird:
After a brief period as an option, the new 200-horsepower, 3.8-liter V6 displaced the 3.4-liter as Firebird's base engine. At the same time, the Formula Firebird's V8 engine got a boost to 285 horsepower. A "Ram Air" option hiked the V8 to 305 horses. A new 3800 Performance Package gave V6 models some of the Formula and Trans Am features, including 4-wheel disc brakes, a limited-slip differential, dual exhaust outlets, 16-inch tires, and quicker steering.
1997 Pontiac Firebird:
Daytime running lights and air conditioning became standard in all Firebirds. The optional Ram Air package could now be installed on convertibles as well as coupes. A new center console offered more storage, a pull-out cupholder, and two auxiliary power outlets.
1998 Pontiac Firebird:
Firebirds got a modest facelift and a new V8 engine for '98. Despite again displacing 5.7-liters, the V8 was all new and made 305 horsepower. When equipped with the Ram Air option, engine output was boosted to 320.
1999 Pontiac Firebird:
Firebird's changes for '99 included larger fuel tanks (from 15.5 to 16.8 gallons), available traction control for V6 models, and a limited-edition 30th Anniversary package for coupes and convertibles.
2000 Pontiac Firebird:
Despite rumors of possible extinction, Firebird continued into 2000 with fresh colors, new rear child-seat anchors, and newly designed 17-inch wheels for the WS6 package.
2001 Pontiac Firebird:
Firebirds entered the 2001 model year with stronger engines and minor suspension revisions. The 5.7-liter V8 gained 5 horsepower and all models got revised shock absorbers. The WS6 Ram Air was no longer available on Formula, but increased Trans Am's horsepower by 15.
2002 Pontiac Firebird:
Pontiac's sporty coupe would be retired after the 2002 model year. For its last year, power windows, locks, mirrors, and antenna were standard. Offered earlier in the year was a commemorative Collector package based on the Trans Am; it included WS6 equipment, yellow paint with black accents, and special wheels and trim.
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