The second-generation F-body holds a unique place in American car culture, and this 1975 Pontiac Firebird Formula has evolved significantly from its factory origins. Originally finished in Ginger Bronze, the car now wears a deep metallic blue that highlights its aggressive silhouette. It is no longer just a cruiser, having been re-engineered with a focus on mechanical engagement and modern road manners.
Exterior Evolution and T-Top Conversion
One of the most ambitious changes to this 1975 Pontiac Firebird Formula is the custom T-top roof conversion. This modification allows for an open-air environment that was not originally available for this specific model year. To further enhance the front profile, the owner installed a metal Trans Am-style front bumper featuring a rubberized coating and matching blue paint.
Upgraded Wheels and Chassis Stiffening
The car sits on iconic snowflake-style wheels, which are wrapped in Cooper Cobra Radial G/T tires for a classic staggered look. To handle modern corners, the suspension features Koni shocks and significantly thicker sway bars. A subframe extension brace has been welded directly to the unibody to reduce the chassis flex common in vintage muscle cars.
Interior Refinement and Driver Controls
The cabin maintains a period-correct feel with black perforated vinyl sourced from Classic Industries for the seats and door panels. A full-length center console houses the shifter for the five-speed manual, while a leather-wrapped steering wheel provides a premium touch point. For entertainment, a Pioneer sound system replaces the original unit to offer better audio quality during long drives.
Instrumentation and Dashboard Layout
Behind the steering wheel, the 1975 Pontiac Firebird Formula retains its classic gauge cluster, including an 8,000-rpm tachometer and a 100-mph speedometer. Essential readouts for oil pressure, voltage, and coolant temperature allow the driver to monitor the modified V8 with precision. These analog gauges remain a hallmark of the driver-focused Pontiac cockpits of the mid-seventies.
Engine Specifications and Drivetrain Power
The 400ci V8 has been heavily modified with steel cylinder heads from a 455 and a high-performance Comp Cams camshaft. An Edelbrock carburetor and intake manifold sit atop the block, while Hooker long-tube headers manage the exhaust flow. Performance is managed by a Tremec five-speed manual transmission equipped with a lightweight flywheel, a carbon clutch plate, and a hydraulic clutch assembly.
Technical Performance Summary
By blending the 400ci block with 455-sourced components, this 1975 Pontiac Firebird Formula achieves a mechanical balance the factory never offered. The five-speed swap and four-wheel disc brakes transform the car into a more capable long-distance machine. It serves as a well-executed example of how targeted upgrades can revitalize a classic platform for contemporary roads.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
