|
The
third-generation Firebird was introduced in January 1982. Though it appeared
substantially different from its predecessor, both it and the Camaro remained
loyal to their original mission as low, sleek, rear-drive sport coupes. At one
time, a front-wheel drive version had been considered but in the end tradition won out.
 “There were those who wanted
front-wheel drive,” said Camaro Chief Engineer Tom Zimmer, “and those
for rear-wheel drive. In the end, Pontiac sold rear-wheel drive to the
corporation. The decision was more on the basis of building upon existing
Camaro/Firebird tradition than anything else; we could have done a very
fine-handling front-drive car. But we decided the original type of car still had
plenty of market potential."
1982
Pontiac Firebird Trans-Am
The 1982 year model saw the most radical changes of any year before. The third
generation Trans Am's were born and the were a completely new design from models
past. Gone were stationary headlights; replaced by the popular
"flip-up" or "pop-up" headlights that were still in use on
the final 2002 Trans Am models.
The third generations initiated
as early as 1975, the program was interrupted by more pressing projects, such as
the new J-body subcompacts (Pontiac Sunbird and Chevrolet Cavalier).
However the program
returned to the front burner in 1978, where stylists were given a mission to
maintain cockpit dimensions  while reducing the size of the exterior.
This resulted in a 10-in. reduction in length and 2 inches in width. Although
the Camaro and Firebird had as much as 65 percent of their parts compatible, they still
reflected their individual divisional heritages. A notable benefit of the
Firebird's new styling was a tremendous increase in aerodynamic efficiency:
1984
Pontiac Firebird Trans-Am
|