1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am
The 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am represented a significant evolution for the iconic F-body muscle car, blending aggressive styling with increasingly sophisticated performance options. Building on the success of its predecessors, the '79 Trans Am continued to be a symbol of American performance and a formidable contender in the pony car wars, even as emissions regulations and fuel economy concerns began to shape the automotive landscape.
Key Features and Design:
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Exterior Styling: The '79 Trans Am retained the distinctive sleek, aerodynamic profile that had become its hallmark. The most notable exterior update for 1979 was the introduction of the "Screamin' Chicken" hood decal, which, along with the shaker hood scoop, became an instantly recognizable and iconic design element. The car featured a prominent front air dam, fender vents, and a rear spoiler, all contributing to its sporty and aggressive stance. Quad rectangular headlights were now standard. The "WS6" Special Performance Package, a popular option, added components like larger sway bars, stiffer springs, and wider wheels for enhanced handling.
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Interior Comfort and Technology: The interior offered a driver-focused cockpit with comfortable, supportive seats. Standard features included a full array of gauges, power steering, and power brakes. Options like air conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, and upgraded sound systems provided a more refined driving experience. For 1979, Pontiac also introduced the "Hurst/Yankee" decal package as an optional stripe and decal combination, offering a more custom look.
Powertrain and Performance:
The 1979 Trans Am offered a range of V8 engines, catering to different performance preferences:
- 5.0L (301 cu in) V8: This was the standard engine for many Trans Am models. While not the most powerful option, it offered a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency for the era.
- 5.7L (350 cu in) V8: This engine, often referred to as the L80, provided a noticeable step up in power and torque, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts.
- 6.6L (400 cu in) V8: The legendary 6.6L V8 (L78) was available, delivering the most potent performance, especially when paired with the WS6 package. This engine offered classic muscle car grunt.
- 6.6L (403 cu in) V8 (Oldsmobile-sourced): For California models and those with automatic transmissions, an Oldsmobile-sourced 403 cubic inch V8 was used due to emissions regulations.
Transmission options typically included a 3-speed Turbo Hydramatic automatic or a 4-speed manual transmission. The WS6 package significantly improved handling dynamics with its revised suspension and larger wheels and tires, allowing the Trans Am to compete effectively in terms of cornering prowess.
Special Editions and Rarity:
The 1979 model year also saw the introduction of a very special edition:
- The 10th Anniversary Trans Am: Celebrating a decade of the Trans Am, this limited edition model was a standout. It featured a unique platinum silver paint scheme with silver leather interior, special badging, and a more powerful 6.6L (400 cu in) L78 V8 engine (with the W72 performance package) exclusive to this edition. These models are highly sought after by collectors today.
Legacy and Significance:
The 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am remains a beloved classic for several reasons. It represented a peak in the Trans Am's styling and performance before stricter emissions and fuel economy standards led to further downsizing and engine de-tuning. The iconic "Screamin' Chicken" hood graphic, the WS6 handling package, and the availability of potent V8 engines cemented its place as a muscle car icon. The 10th Anniversary edition, in particular, stands as a testament to Pontiac's commitment to performance and a fitting tribute to the Trans Am's impressive first decade.