Segment:
Sports Coupe / Performance Car
Competitors:
Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Mitsubishi Eclipse (higher trims), Nissan 300ZX (previous generation).
Performance Orientation:
The Firebird was positioned as a rear-wheel-drive, performance-oriented coupe and convertible, offering muscular styling and potent engine options.
Value Proposition:
Offered a blend of performance, distinctive styling, and often a competitive price point compared to some imported sports cars.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, lubrication, cooling, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system.
Drivetrain:
Transmission operation (automatic and manual), differential, drive axles.
Chassis:
Braking system, steering system, suspension system, wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument panel, gauges, warning indicators, power outlets, fuses, relays.
Body And Interior:
Doors, windows, mirrors, seats, seat belts, airbags, climate control, audio system, locks, interior features, exterior lighting.
Safety Features:
Airbag system, seat belt operation and adjustment, child restraint systems, ABS operation.
Operation:
Starting and driving, parking, fuel economy tips, using the climate control, audio system operation, lighting controls, wipers.
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, changing wiper blades, bulb replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Understanding warning lights and indicators, basic troubleshooting for common issues (e.g., battery problems, tire flats).
Emergency:
Emergency starting (jump starting), tire changing (using jack and spare tire), roadside assistance information.
Depth:
Covers essential owner-level operation, maintenance, and safety information. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or complete repair instructions typically found in a service manual.
Engine Option 1 Name:
3.8L V6 (L36)
Engine Option 1 Displacement:
3.8 Liters (231 cu in)
Engine Option 1 Horsepower:
200 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine Option 1 Torque:
225 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Engine Option 2 Name:
5.7L V8 (LS1)
Engine Option 2 Displacement:
5.7 Liters (346 cu in)
Engine Option 2 Horsepower:
310 hp @ 5200 rpm (Firebird), 325 hp @ 5200 rpm (Formula, Trans Am)
Engine Option 2 Torque:
335 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (Firebird), 350 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (Formula, Trans Am)
Injection Type:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended for V6, 91 octane recommended for V8 (LS1).
V6 Transmission:
4-speed automatic (4L60-E)
V8 Transmission:
6-speed manual (Tremec T-56)
V8 Automatic:
4-speed automatic (4L60-E) - standard on Firebird Coupe, optional on Formula/Trans Am
Traction Control:
Standard on all models, often integrated with ABS.
Length:
Approximately 191.7 inches
Width:
Approximately 70.5 inches
Height:
Approximately 50.7 inches
Wheelbase:
Approximately 101.1 inches
Curb Weight V6:
Approximately 3,300 - 3,400 lbs
Curb Weight V8:
Approximately 3,450 - 3,600 lbs
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4-star (for 2000-2002 models, likely similar for 2002)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4-star (for 2000-2002 models, likely similar for 2002)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags, not standard on all trims).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags. Optional side-impact airbags on some models.
Seat Belts:
Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters; rear lap and shoulder belts.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. If using conventional oil, 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or alongside oil changes.
Coolant Change:
Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter. Consult manual for specific type.
Engine Oil V6 V8:
SAE 5W-30, Dexos1 or API certified (Owner's manual likely specifies GM specification or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron III or equivalent (check for Dexron VI compatibility updates).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GM Synchromesh or equivalent (specified for T-56).
Coolant:
GM P/N 1052876 or equivalent (50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and deionized water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Plenum Gasket Ls1:
Potential for intake manifold plenum gasket leaks on LS1 engines, leading to vacuum leaks and rough running.
Window Motors:
Power window motors and regulators can be a common point of failure.
Dashboard Cracks:
Dashboard material can become brittle and crack over time due to sun exposure.
Ls1 Optispark Issues:
While improved over earlier generations, the optispark distributor system (on LS1 engines) can still be susceptible to moisture ingress leading to misfires.
Pontiac Legacy:
Pontiac was known for performance-oriented vehicles with an emphasis on 'excitement'.
Fourth Gen Introduction:
The fourth generation Firebird debuted for the 1993 model year, significantly restyled from its predecessor with a more aerodynamic design.
Fourth Gen Facelifts:
Received significant updates in 1998 with a redesigned front fascia and improved LS1 V8 performance. The 2002 model represents the final year of this generation.
Production End Year:
2002
Manufacturing Plant:
General Motors' Van Nuys, California assembly plant (closed in 1992 for the last model year, then reopened for the F-body platform until closure in 2002).
