1987 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA

Performance enthusiasts were introduced to a formidable option—a robust and aggressive GTA version of the enduring Trans Am. Alongside visual upgrades like an updated spoiler and side skirts, the $2,700 GTA package featured the most powerful V-8 engine seen in Firebirds for years: a 350-cid (5.7-liter) engine borrowed from the Corvette, enhanced with tuned-port injection.

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The 5.7-liter engine, producing 210 horsepower at 4,000 rpm, delivered a remarkable 315 pounds-feet of torque to the rear wheels. To handle its high-performance demands, the engine was equipped with an oil cooler, while the driver enjoyed a fully adjustable seat for comfort during extended drives. Additional features included P245/50VR16 tires mounted on gold diamond-spoke (cross-lace) wheels, the WS6 performance package, and four-wheel disc brakes.

Exclusive to the four-speed automatic transmission, the 5.7-liter engine was also an option for standard Trans Ams and the Formula Firebird, a revived package for the season. Priced at $1,070, the Formula package for base Firebirds included a carbureted V-8, P245/50VR16 tires, sport suspension, and a rear spoiler. Opting for the larger V-8 added $1,045 to the Formula or Trans Am price, which included the mandatory automatic transmission and all-disc brakes.

The standard Trans Am powertrain featured a 165-horsepower, four-barrel 5.0-liter V-8 paired with a five-speed manual transmission. The TPI version remained optional, now offering a choice between manual and automatic shifting.

Performance was clearly becoming a priority, as evidenced by the discontinuation of four-cylinder engines for Firebirds and the end of the S/E series. While the bold hood decals were no longer present, a true performance car didn’t need flashy graphics to prove its capabilities.

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