Original cost: $3,538.56
On loan from: Phil Mitchell, Sumner, Washington
Number made: 15,526 convertibles, 67,032 hardtop coupes
Engine, etc.: Five engine choices including: base engine: 6 cyl., 175 h.p.; also offered were a range of 330 to 335 h.p. engines (see dealer brochure, below)
The Firebird was first introduced on February 23, 1967, as a pony car to compete with the Ford Mustang and Mercury Cougar.
John DeLorean was put in charge of making a Pontiac version of the Camaro’s F-body platform. He had a six-month deadline. With such a short time for design changes, changes were made inspired by the GTO. DeLorean was not satisfied with the Camaro’s handling and had the new car lowered an inch and ordered use of lower-profile tires.
Engine options included the Ram Air I V-8 with 335 h.p. and positraction. It took advantage of the hood scoops and the engine had a hotter cam and stronger valve springs. It also cost $600 and was popular. A four-speed manual transmission was optional although all V-8’s came with a standard heavy-duty three speed transmission.
The first generation Firebird had the distinctive “coke bottle” styling. The Firebird had bumpers integrated into the overall design. Styling changes from 1967 to 1968 were minor and included enlarging the front indicator lights and wrapping them around onto the wings. The Pontiac arrowhead logo was added to each rear side. The cars had bucket seats, side marker lights, vinyl upholstery, GM safety features, and simulated woodgrain dashboards. Hardtop coupes and convertibles were available.
Source: https://www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/series.aspx?makeID=121&modelID=101&h=14020#14020
https://oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Pontiac/1968%20Pontiac/1968%20Pontiac%20Firebird%20Brochure/dirindex.html (Original dealer brochure)