Firebird Choice

[Escue]

Which year and model Firebird is the most aerodynamic and stable at speed?
 I realize the front bumper on some of the 80 models vary (basic vs Trans Am).

[Gary Perkinson]

Which year and model Firebird is the most aerodynamic and stable at speed?
 I realize the front bumper on some of the 80 models vary (basic vs Trans Am).

From what I've read, the third-gen ('82-'92) Firebirds were the most aerodynamic versions of the model to that point, with the '85 Firebird Trans Am coming in as the sleekest model of that generation, with a Cd of .29. However, that generation of Firebirds also lost about 8 inches of wheelbase and 500 lbs. of weight, neither of which is a good thing in LSR...

[kiwi belly tank]

On face value the fourth gen looks like it would be better aero package but doing research should be able to tell you the real world facts. There have been some seriously fast gen-3 Firebirds but the evolution of those cars go back a way to where the 4th gen might not have been an option.
  Sid.

[Escue]

I like the 4th gen Firebirds as currently they are easy to find and inexpensive to purchase. The third gen metal roof cars are getting harder to find in decent condition within the price range of 4th gen cars.

Ok, if we eliminate the Firebirds both generations is there another coupe that is acceptable?

[1leg]

Of the 3rd gens the 91-92 would likly be the best with the nose change. but I agree I think the 93-94 4th gen would be better aero wise. The 4th gen has the motor set back pretty far in the chassis and is a little more difficult to work on. but would handle better then 3rd gen.

I would vote for a 4th gen transam.

Jerry

[Escue]

Jerry,
4th gen it is. I?ve located a few Trans Ams at realistic prices. Thanks

[rockracer]

Ok, if we eliminate the Firebirds both generations is there another coupe that is acceptable?

I  have a vette I'll sell you.  😉

[37 ROADSTER]

3rd generation 88-92 fastest on the salt

[aircap]

Decades ago drag racer Warren Johnson said the Firebird just looked aerodynamic according to his wind tunnel research.

[kiwi belly tank]

But he still ran one for 13 years right up until he retired.
  Sid.

[1leg]

But he still ran one for 13 years right up until he retired.
  Sid.

NHRA tell them what body they are allowed to use. Pretty sure if Warren could have used the small body car like the cobalt he would have. I have a friend that bought some of Warrens 1988 calais front ends back in the 90s nothing about those frontend was stock other then they look stock.

[DallasV]

What year was Kugel's Firebird. 300MPH stock would need to be pretty good on the aero

[Stan Back]

Don't forget the Monza . . .

Steve Batchelor's Unblown C/Altered car has held the record at 243 since 1992 -- 33 years.

[aircap]

Didn't Mike Cook's Thunderbird go 298?

[BHR301]

Kugel's Firebird is a 1992...