1987 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA 5.7 liter LT1 from North America
Faults:
I'm on starter #4, alternator #3, water pump #3, ECM (main computer for all engine functions) #3; the car leaks like a sieve, always burned a lot of oil ... now I could probably be arrested. Motor for auto antenna wouldn't stop (even with car stopped), on catalytic converter #3, motorized hatch closing mechanism is messed up, hydraulic tubes to open both hood and hatch last two years tops. Air conditionning lasted 2 years and was too expensive to repair ($700 Canadian).
General Comments:
Okay, the car is over 10 years now but it's been 10 years of constant and costly repairs that average about a thousand dollars per year. It's time they put the F-body to rest. If you're in the market for a muscle car don't buy the (sold out) American reviewers who rant about the 300+ hp of the F-bodies (ie Camaro, Firebird) and how they will tromp a Mustang. That's all racetrack bull that doesn't translate to real roads, real weather, real comfort, real handling, or real laws. You'll be happier with a 'Stang (but not necessarily happy). None of these reviewers own and maintain these muscle cars. They cost a lot of $$ to keep running. I'd love to get the new 99 Mustang GT but my GTA experience is impossible to ignore. It's looking very much like a Honda Accord Coupe EX-V6 is in my future; since I can't own two cars, I'll opt for the peace of mind of the Accord. (no I don't work for Honda ... and I don't run a single bit of Micro$oft anything. Computerwise, I'm powered 100% by Linux :-) You can remove this last bit <g>)
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 16th May, 1999
19th Dec 2000, 09:45
I've owned a GTA since it was brand new in 1987 and I love it. You must not be a true fan of muscle cars if you don't like this one. Sure it has its defects, but it is a great car and I won't ever sell mine.