Pontiac Firebird has been one of the best selling muscle cars from Pontiac. It was in production between 1967 to 2002. During the fourth-generation years, a special performance package was unveiled. The Pontiac Firehawk, was in production between 1993 to 2002 and this was manufactured by Pontiac and SLP Engineering. Firehawk remains a rare muscle car and here are some facts about this model.
Firehawk Was Built in Collaboration
The Pontiac Firehawk was a special edition of the Firebird models. This was not just designed by Pontiac. They joined hands with Street Legal Performance Engineering to build this model. The goal was to make Firehawk a track-ready model. SLP Engineering was known for their designs and tuning. The Firehawk was customized by SLP Engineering who also designed the vehicle. Although it didn’t feature in NASCAR or other major motorsports events, the Firehawk was driven in drag racing and club racing.
Performance Package
The Pontiac Firehawk was a performance package. It was built using GM V8 engines like 5.7L LT1 V8 and 5.7L LS1 V8. The maximum horsepower was 350 with 345 lb-ft of torque. It was available with RWD, 6-speed manual, and 4-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle’s tuned suspension, ram-air induction system, and performance tires resulted in smooth driving. Pontiac Firehawk’s recorded top speed was 160mph.
Designing
The designs and styles for the Pontiac Firehawk were done by SLP Engineering. Firehawk featured fiberglass hood, decals, badges, and induction scoop. The Firehawk decals and badging enhanced the look. SLP Engineering designed the vehicle based on the fourth-generation Firebird models. The car’s front end had a scoop and twin nostrils with popup lights. It also included aerodynamics along with a long hood. A cockpit near the driver’s seat, rear spoiler, and Firehawk wheels completed the styling.
Features
The designs and features of the Firehawk were simple yet classic. It had a tuned suspension and exhaust system which improved handling. Power windows, AC, cassette system, leather seats, and manual gear shifter are the key features. Analog gauges and special dashboard were equipped. Apart from features, the paint schemes for Firehawk included Red, Black, and Yellow.
Iconic Vehicle
Pontiac Firehawk roughly sold around 5,700 units. Though these were street-legal, the manufacturers launched this to promote the Firebird models and for a collaboration with SLP Engineering. Apart from these, it was designed exclusively to test the engines and technology. Firehawk was mostly purchased by Pontiac fans, car collectors, and racing teams.
It Was Launched During the Final Years of Muscle Car Era
The decline of muscle cars began in the mid 70s. Although the muscle car sales continued in the 80s, it was not great. When the Firehawk was launched in 1993, it was truly the end of the dominant period of the muscle car era. This is another reason the Firehawk remains special and iconic. Modern vehicles have the package of muscle cars, but the range of original muscle cars remain unmatched.
Collector Value
Every rare muscle car has insane collector market value and the Firehawk is not an exception. The original Pontiac Firehawk was one of the most expensive muscle cars priced around $30k dollars. This was huge in the 90s though it was a muscle car. Many collector market owners bought these and this makes it highly collectible. Today, people can get their hands on the original Pontiac Firehawk for $20,000 USD to $100,000 USD based on the year and conditions.