1999 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am WS6 5.7L LS1 from North America
Summary:
Rare, underrated, loud, fast and mean
Faults:
Threw a rod. Cost $5,700 to get a re-manufactured engine replaced.
Paint on the ram air hood is bubbling from engine heat.
Goes through tires like you wouldn't believe.
Inside is full of cheap plastic. That means it's a noisy and squeaky ride.
General Comments:
Fairly rare car. I don't see many Firebirds, I see even less Trans Ams, and even less with the WS6 package. I can go months without seeing an actual WS6.
It's fast enough. About 5.4 seconds to 60, 13.6 second 1/4 mile and a top speed of (according to GM) a drag limited 165mph.
It has a 346ci (5.7l) pushrod V8. The engine is the same LS1 found in the Formula Firebird, Z28 Camaro, SS Camaro, Corvette, GTO, and CTS-V.
Mine has 370 HP and 390 torque, but when stock, the '99 WS6 has 320 HP and 335 torque.
It has an ugly interior and is a noisy ride. The car has a ridiculous and infuriating Skip-Shift feature.
The 6 speed manual has bragging rights, but the boot and knob are unsightly, and the throw feels like you're pulling back a yardstick and not a shifter. A short throw shifter is an aftermarket must.
Overall, it's fun, good looking, and works right.
I average about 23 MPG, and I think I could pull 24 or 25.
Rare and cheap. I'd say to get one.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 7th May, 2013
7th May 2013, 10:06
"Threw a rod."
- That doesn't say much for the LS1!