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As
the third-generation Firebird neared the end of its life span, Pontiac
redirected its energies toward a return to the performance pinnacle it had
reached in the 1970's. Starting in 1983 with the return of the Formula
model, Pontiac reintroduced a strategy that targeted different segments of
buyers. Encapsulating virtually all of the performance features of the Trans Am,
155 bhp, 5 0 liter throttle-body V-8, gas-charge shocks, 4-wheel discs, front
and rear anti-roll bars and 245/50R-16 radials on alloy wheels-and priced
significantly less than the Trans Am, it was the ultimate sleeper. At the other
end of the scale was the muscular GTA. Wrestled away from  Chevrolet the
5.7-liter tuned-port V-8 that had previously been unique to the Corvette, the
$2700 GTA package offered enthusiasts serious horsepower (210 initially, up
rated to 225 in 1998) with suspension and tires to match, plus a higher level of
comfort and convenience.
One of the best performing Trans Am’s was the 1989 20th anniversary
Turbo Trans Am, with a 255-bhp version of the 3.8-liter Turbo V-6 from the Buick
Grand National and GNX. This was an improved engine, outperforming either
Buick-5.0 sec 0 to 60 mph, 100 mph plus in the quarter-mile, and a top speed
over 160 mph.
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