1991 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA LB9 5.0 H.O. TPI from North America
Summary:
Not for sell!
Faults:
While riding the German Autobahns with under 10000 miles at speeds in-excess of speedometer and buried in at the right, from Munchen to Berlin; on my stops to refuel, the injectors did not shutdown.
5 speed manual transmission thrust washer replaced at 12000 and 30000 miles.
Engine Alternator replaced at 30000 miles. GOODWRENCH SERVICE. Replaced again free at 50000 miles.
Rear hatch/deck Wraparound Notched Wing/Spoiler fell apart at 85000 miles. No OEM replacement available.
Fisher body notorious for alignment wear chewing up tires. So look for inexpensive high performance ones, such as FALCON.
Driver door with lower weatherstripping contact point rusting.
General Comments:
The car is a joy to drive once seated inside the tight cockpit, but cumbersome for long legs operating a clutch.
A tight 230hp TPI motor coupled to 5sp with WS6 performance suspension is loads of fun for a big boy toy. I get chirps and spins in 3rd gear as well!
Not the vehicle to teach teens how to drive.
It is not cheap to operate. Premium fuel 90 octane or better and thirsty. It hates cheap gas and you will hear it in the engine as well as feel lagging engine performance.
Read your operator's manual for shifting instructions, and try never to down-shift. This will help extend your fuel economy.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 13th June, 2010
29th Jun 2007, 15:44
I agree with man from jersey. I have a 91 trans am WS6 and the handling and overall performance is great. Mine is a convertible which makes it even more fun to drive. I agree that these cars are under priced. I bought my car for less than what a family car in the same condition would have cost. My WS6 handles better than any car I've ever driven. (I don't drive it in the winter - it's rust-free and I want to keep it that way.