When you first lay eyes on Jim and Jimmy Miller’s 1981 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, the iconic shape and famous hood graphics are instantly recognizable. Yet, the car also boasts a modern look – a result of the meticulous work by the Millers.
Jim Miller, owner of Miller & Son Collision in Lancaster, New York, alongside his son, Jimmy, transformed this classic car into a masterpiece. The project, which took many nights and weekends, aimed to honor the original Trans Am while incorporating modern performance and aesthetics.
The heart of this build is a Chevrolet Performance LSX376-B15 crate engine, equipped with a Magnuson TVS2650 supercharger. This powerful combination provides the Trans Am with a modern performance edge, producing 473 horsepower and 444 lb.-ft. of torque, baseline numbers enhanced by the forced-induction system.
The Trans Am also features a Super Magnum six-speed manual transmission, Ridetech suspension components, a Wizard Cooling radiator system, and a Tanks Incorporated fuel tank. Its custom interior, designed by Upholstery Unlimited, includes a roll cage, Vintage Air, and New Vintage USA gauges, ensuring comfort and safety.
The exterior is painted in a unique yellow shade called Sweet and Sour from Modern Classikk, featuring steel hand-made spoilers and rocker panels. The car rides on Boze forged aluminum wheels with Toyo R888R tires, providing an aggressive, modern stance.
Jim Miller has owned the car since 1994, and this build pays tribute to the classic Trans Am while showcasing modern enhancements. The Millers’ dedication to maintaining the original hood graphics and incorporating a supercharger required extensive modifications, making this Trans Am a prime example of a restomod done right.
Performance and Specs
Engine: Chevrolet Performance LSX376-B15 crate engine with Magnuson TVS2650 supercharger
Power: 473 horsepower and 444 lb.-ft. of torque
Transmission: Super Magnum six-speed manual
Suspension: Ridetech components with air ride system
Cooling: Wizard Cooling radiator system (LS Beast)
Fuel System: Tanks Incorporated fuel tank with Walbro “Hellcat” in-tank fuel pump
Interior: Custom by Upholstery Unlimited, roll cage by Too Fast Garage, Vintage Air, New Vintage USA gauges
Exterior: Sweet and Sour paint by Modern Classikk, steel hand-made spoilers and rocker panels
Wheels and Tires: Boze forged aluminum wheels, Toyo R888R tires (20×12 rear, 19×10 front)
Brakes: Factory four-wheel disc brakes
Rear End: Currie with 4.11 gears
Jim and Jimmy Miller’s 1981 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am stands as a testament to their craftsmanship, blending classic aesthetics with modern performance. This father-son project not only showcases their skill but also their dedication to preserving the legacy of this iconic car.
Source: Chevrolet/the-Block
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