02/24: Well, looks like Spring may be getting closer… gotta be making sure all those BEA-utiful GTAs are ready to be out enjoying that sunshine when the chance arises. May be able to hit some events this year… will discuss more as the year progresses. But for the first time in a long time, I’m hopeful!
02/24: The 1987 section of the Road Tests & Reviews section has been completely rescanned and edited for improved readability and clarity. The other yearly sections will follow as time allows.
1987 was a watershed year for Pontiac’s Third-Generation F-Body platform; several new content changes were made to the Firebird lineup from top to bottom; the legendary Firebird Trans Am model benefited from the best of all the additions.
Introduced as an higher-end performance/luxury option package for the Trans Am… and to highlight the Pontiac F-Body introduction of the GM 5.7L (350 cubic-inch) Tuned-Port-Injection V8 engine… the TRANS AM GTA debuted amid a flurry of activity in the entire Pontiac F-car lineup. Beginning as a specifically outfitted option package in 1987, the GTA was quickly upgraded to a fully-contented model… and became the flagship Third-Generation Pontiac Firebird.
The GTA was aimed at the performance enthusiast who wanted a bit more “flair” from their vehicle purchase, both in style and performance; buyers who were looking for less “stickers and decals” and a more upscale, mature international performance experience for the late 1980s. During its six years of production, the “Gran Turismo Americano” edition of the Trans Am evolved into the “ultimate” luxury performance Third-Generation Firebird.
For many years the Third-Generation Firebirds were oftentimes harshly judged by the automotive press of its day, but the truth still remains that the GTA was one of GM’s hottest performers during the late 1980s and early 1990s. This website was created, in part, to show you just what made these cars so special back then… and why they continue to be so today.
Here at The Source Page, you’ll learn about the GTA’s history… meet the Pontiac manager who envisioned the program back in the mid-1980s… find out about all aspects of the car’s development, before and after production… chart the year-to-year changes and adjustments… you name it, you’ll find it here at The GTA Source Page.
Thanks for stopping by!
COPYRIGHT © 1997-2026, THE GTA SOURCE PAGE. All Rights Reserved