The 1989 Pontiac Firebird Turbo Trans Am represents a fascinating moment in automotive history when a pony car outperformed the legendary Corvette. This specific example is one of just 1,555 units built to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Trans Am nameplate. It shows a remarkably low 4,800 miles and remains finished in its classic White paint over Camel leather upholstery. Enthusiasts recognize this model as the ultimate eighties sleeper because it borrowed the heart of the Buick Grand National.
Classic Aero Styling and Anniversary Details
The exterior of this special edition is defined by the Aero Package which adds unique front and rear fascias. This car features removable T-top roof panels that were part of the desirable Value Option Package. Bright 20th Anniversary badging is found on the nose and the sail panels to signify its rarity. Gold-finished 16-inch diamond-spoke aluminum wheels provide a perfect contrast against the crisp White bodywork. Pop-up headlights and quad exhaust outlets complete the aggressive aesthetic typical of the late eighties.
Preserved Camel Leather Interior
Stepping inside reveals a cabin that looks largely untouched by time thanks to the exceptionally low mileage displayed. The articulated front bucket seats are finished in Camel leather and offer modern-style support for spirited driving. Every convenience was included from the factory like air conditioning and a Delco cassette stereo with an equalizer. Power windows and locks work alongside a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel mounted on a tilt column. This interior setup bridges the gap between raw performance and grand touring comfort perfectly.
Buick GNX Power and Performance Specs
Under the hood lies a turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine that was famously shared with the contemporary Buick GNX. This powerplant was factory rated at 250 horsepower and a massive 340 lb-ft of torque for incredible acceleration. It sends that power through a four-speed automatic transmission equipped with a high-capacity cooling system. A limited-slip differential and four-wheel disc brakes ensure the car handles the boost pressure with total composure. A Flowmaster muffler has been added to give the turbo V6 a more pronounced exhaust note.
Chassis and Suspension Upgrades
The WS6 Special Performance package gives this vehicle a much more refined handling profile than a standard Firebird. It benefits from a revised suspension system that was specifically tuned to handle the increased weight of the turbo components. Vented disc brakes at all four corners provide consistent stopping power during high-performance maneuvers on the road. The inclusion of power steering makes this heavy hitter surprisingly easy to manage in tight parking situations. These mechanical choices made it one of the best-handling American cars of its era.
Summary of the 20th Anniversary Edition
The 1989 Pontiac Firebird Turbo Trans Am is a rare artifact from a period of intense American performance innovation. This survivor comes complete with its original window sticker and ownership kit to verify its unique provenance. Despite a mileage discrepancy on the Carfax report, the physical condition suggests a vehicle that has been carefully stored. It offers a unique opportunity for collectors to acquire a legendary Pace Car with true Buick turbo power. This Firebird remains a definitive symbol of late-century speed and style.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
