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1987–1990 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA

The GTA (Gran Turismo Americano) represented the third-gen Firebird's peak. With Pontiac's distinctive aero body kit, 16-inch gold mesh wheels, and the 350 TPI, it was a gentleman's muscle car.

1987–1990 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA — Full Specifications

  • Engine: 350ci TPI V8 / 305ci TPI V8
  • Power: 225–235 bhp
  • Torque: 330–340 lb-ft
  • Transmission: Borg-Warner T-5 5-speed manual or 700R4/4L60 4-speed automatic
  • Drivetrain: Front engine, rear-wheel drive
  • Body style: 2-door hatchback coupe
  • Wheelbase: 101 inches
  • Curb weight: 3,300–3,500 lbs
  • 0–60 mph: 6.0–7.0 sec
  • Quarter mile: 14.2–15.0 sec
  • Original MSRP: $17,192 (1987 GTA); $20,680 (1989 Turbo Trans Am)
  • Current value: $15,000–$30,000 (GTA); $35,000–$65,000 (Turbo Trans Am); $25,000–$45,000 (20th Anniversary)

Production Notes

The GTA was Pontiac's halo car in the late '80s. The 1989 Turbo Trans Am (with Buick's 3.8L turbo V6) was a limited-run special producing 250 hp—only 1,555 built. The 1989 20th Anniversary Trans Am featured a turbo V6 and white-on-white color scheme.

Notable Factory Options

  • 350ci TPI V8
  • WS6 suspension
  • 16-inch gold mesh wheels
  • Leather interior
  • Digital instrument cluster
  • Performance axle ratio

Buying Guide

The third-gen Trans Am GTA is one of the best bargains in the muscle car world. The 350 TPI V8 GTA is the sweet spot—more distinctive than the equivalent Camaro and currently priced lower. The 1989 Turbo Trans Am is rapidly appreciating as collectors recognize its rarity and significance. 1987–88 GTAs with the 350 and a 5-speed manual are the driver's choice. Automatic cars are more common and less desirable. Check for the same rust issues as the Camaro (hatch area, frame rails) plus cracking of the GTA's ground effects body kit. The 20th Anniversary Trans Am (all white, turbo V6) is a unique collectible. Standard Firebird Formulas with the 350 TPI are the hidden gem—same engine and suspension without the GTA's cosmetic package, and significantly cheaper.

Pros

  • Distinctive Pontiac styling sets it apart from the Camaro
  • 350 TPI V8 provides smooth, reliable power
  • Turbo Trans Am is a rare and appreciating collectible
  • More affordable than equivalent Camaros in many cases
  • GTA gold mesh wheels are iconic '80s design

Cons

  • Same rust and structural issues as the third-gen Camaro
  • GTA ground effects body kit cracks and is expensive to replace
  • Less aftermarket support than the Camaro equivalent
  • Pontiac's discontinuation (2010) limits brand cachet for some buyers
  • Digital dash components can fail and are costly to repair

Restoration Tips

Shares many mechanical components with the Camaro. GTA-specific gold mesh wheels are sought after. WS6 suspension components wear and need periodic rebuilding. Digital instrument clusters can be repaired by specialists.