1988 PONTIAC FIREBIRD TRANS AM 5.7 LITER GTA - 51K MILES

1988 Pontiac Firebird Additional Info:

1988 Pontiac Firebird Trans AM GTA, 50.3k original miles

GTA HISTORY

Originally released in 1987, the GTA became Pontiac’s top of the line flagship model, with most of the bells and whistles becoming standard including the 5.7 L98 power plant, TH-700R4 (4L60) automatic transmission, WS6 Performance handling package (36mm front sway bars, 24mm rear sway bars, quick ratio steering box, gas filled struts), RPO J65 front and rear disc brakes, 3.27 limited slip rear, and 16 inch lightweight gold mesh aluminum alloy wheels on 245/50R16 tires.

Other standard amenities included air conditioning,bolstered seats, cloisonne GTA badging, and unique monochromatic color body schemes. The GTA (Gran Turismo Americano) package was designed to compete with European models as well as the top-of-the line Camaro IROC. It was often called the gentleman’s hotrod and would remain in production until 1992.

In 1988, Pontiac added a serpentine belt system and revised air intake, improving performance output to 225 HP / 330 lb/ft torque. An upgraded radio and steering wheel package with separate radio controls also became standard and an anti-theft system.

Performance for the ‘88 GTA was very respectable with a mid to high 14 second ¼ mile time, top speed of over 140 mph, and .86g skidpad rating.

“Pontiac’s GTA Firebirdclocked in at 141mph. The Firebird suspension and handling were real standouts. On the banking,at speed, the Firebird was so precise it was hard to believe. It was possibleto place the car within inches of the desired spot on the track, and thesteering was exactly linear. The whole effect was almost unnatural, and wefound ourselves looking for ways to test our accuracy. The precision handlingand steering of the Pontiac Firebird made it a real pleasure to drive at speed,and the speedometer was equally precise, agreeing exactly with the speed radargun at 141 mph”.(Motor Trend Top Speed Shootout, Sept.1988).

This Van Nuys, CA built GTA shipped on January 20, 1988 and represents 1/6913 models produced in 1988 with the 5.7 L98 engine and 1/2809 in color 74U Flame Red Metallic. Aluminum driveshaft option. 51k original miles, no accidents.

EXTERIOR

Beautiful rust-free example with one repaint using BASF Diamont line paint as well as Diamont’s top line clear coat in the original factory color.The80’s GM cars were notorious for their defective clear coating on the hood,roof, and decklid, which is why I decided to repaint the car. Even super lowmile examples will exhibit checkmarks and some deterioration in the clear. The factory aerowing was professionally restored and is a perfect fit, not like the fiberglass reproductions. The paint on the car gleams in full sunlight with richgold shimmering effects from the metallic. In the shade, it is a deep red, the paint still looks wet. The grid style taillight assemblies are in amazing original condition as are the front and rear bumpers. Walk around video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAVqvyBC_f4

New Cooper Starfire WR tires installed less than a year ago. The GTA fender emblems and sail panel birds are factory original cloisonne. The front bumper is a reproduction emblem, the original cloisonne emblem was damaged when removed for paint.

INTERIOR

Factory cloth interior is in mint overall condition as is the carpet. The cloth headliner is in excellent condition with no sags. New floor mats. Minimal wear on the steering wheel. No cracks in the dash, the door panels are in excellent condition. Glass all around is in great condition with only some tiny delamination spots on the front windshield edges. The weatherstripping is outstanding. All gauges, headlights, turn signals, steering wheel gauges, brake lights, radio, electric hatch motor all work as they should. Not sure on the cassette player, I have never tried it.

The underside of the car is in excellent condition with perfect floor pans and no issues underneath

MECHANICAL / PERFORMANCE

Factory fresh engine bay is all stock. The A/C system is fully intact with no leaks but it is low on freon and will require a charge /inspection of system.

The original L98 engine was tuned-up last month including NGK V-Power plugs, AC Delco spark plug wires, cap, and filter and Castrol Edge 5W-30 synthetic oil. The GTA fires right up, runs, drives, brakes, and handles great with plenty of grunt. No leaks. Nice quick shifts through the automatic gears. Factory muffler and exhaust, no mods. Great for highway cruising, turns low rpms at highway speed and gets 26 mpg.

DOCUMENTS

A copy of the Pontiac invoice from GM Archives, Window Sticker, owner’s manual, warranty book, radio booklet, will be included with the car along with clean title in my name.

SUMMARY

This is one of the nicest examples around. The quality repaint is great insurance that your GTA will look outstanding for many years to come. The car is fully detailed and ready to go. It looks like it was just driven-off a Pontiac showroom in the late 80’s. Private seller. Would like to make some garage space for my 67 400 Firebird, if not I will hold onto for Spring ’24 shows.

Sold as is with no warranties. Once payment is received in full, winning bidder is responsible for arranging pick-up. I can deliver the car locally. Car or title will not be released until payment is received in full.Thank you.