1969 Pontiac Firebird Sprint Convertible

Within two years of its launch, the Firebird lineup, including the 1969 Pontiac Firebird Sprint Convertible, received a refreshed design. The car's length increased by 2.3 inches, while its width expanded by an inch. Flatter wheel arches and windsplits on the body panels and front fenders added to its updated look.

Pontiac Firebird Image Gallery

The most noticeable changes appeared in the Endura plastic front end, which also functioned as a bumper. The split grille became narrower, and the quad headlamps were housed in individual compartments. Slim, fluted taillamps remained but were integrated into a redesigned rear panel. The car adopted a more robust appearance, echoing some of the GTO's distinctive style.

The base engine remained the 175 horsepower, 250-cid overhead-cam six. However, the Sprints featured a more powerful 230-horsepower version, equipped with a four-barrel carburetor instead of a single-throat one.

For an additional $121, the Sprints came with racing stripes and a sport suspension. Testers at the time praised the Sprint for its agility and responsiveness on the road, particularly when paired with a four-speed transmission.

The base V-8 engine was the 350, producing 265 bhp on regular fuel. The 350 HO received upgrades such as new cylinder heads and a higher-lift cam, paired with a heavy-duty three-speed transmission and dual exhausts. Notably, ordering the 350 HO no longer included side stripes.

The next upgrade was the powerful 330-horsepower 400 engine, which included hood scoops, a specialized handling suspension, and chrome engine accents. While the 400 HO engine was discontinued, two Ram Air variants were available. The Ram Air IV, with its high-output cam and oversized valves, could achieve quarter-mile times close to 14 seconds.

The interior showcased a redesigned instrument panel and a new steering wheel. Optional features included Rally II wheels and, for the first time, fully leather bucket seats. Shoulder belts were standard in coupes, and bench seats were optional, though seldom chosen. Nearly 25% of Firebirds were equipped with front disc brakes.

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