Pontiac Firebird Formula
1970–1981, 1987–2002
The Formula is the Firebird's value-performance trim — much of the Trans Am's hardware in a cleaner, less flamboyant package, typically without the full body kit and decals. It ran across the second generation (1970–1981) and returned in the third and fourth generations through 2002.
1970–1981, 1987–2002
Overview
The Formula is the Firebird's value-performance trim — much of the Trans Am's hardware in a cleaner, less flamboyant package, typically without the full body kit and decals. It ran across the second generation (1970–1981) and returned in the third and fourth generations through 2002.
Collectibility
Formulas are appreciated as the sleeper-spec Firebird; clean second-generation cars and LS1 fourth-generation Formulas are sought after. Values are qualitative here by design.
Every production run
Years & eras
| Years | Engine | HP | Production | Notable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1970–1981 | — | — | — | — |
| 1987–2002 | — | — | — | — |
1970–1981
The second-generation Formula offered Trans Am running gear with a twin-scoop fiberglass hood and a more understated look than the decal-heavy Trans Am.
1987–2002
Reintroduced for 1987 on the third generation (after a 1982–1986 pause) and continued on the fourth, the Formula again paired the Trans Am's drivetrain (LT1, then LS1) with lighter, plainer bodywork — a popular budget-performance choice.
Worth knowing
Notable
- Offered the Trans Am's performance hardware with cleaner styling.
- A value-minded alternative to the flagship Trans Am.
Model years featuring the Formula