Скачать или смотреть Pontiac Firebird 400 1968

The Pontiac Firebird, introduced in 1967, quickly became an iconic muscle car of the late 1960s. In 1968, Pontiac expanded the Firebird lineup with the introduction of the Firebird 400, which offered enhanced performance and style, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.

▎History

The Pontiac Firebird was developed as a response to the growing demand for pony cars, a segment that had been popularized by the Ford Mustang. The 1968 model year marked a significant evolution in the Firebird’s design and performance capabilities. The Firebird 400 was introduced as a higher-performance variant, equipped with a powerful 400 cubic inch V8 engine.

The 1968 Firebird featured a slightly revised exterior design compared to its predecessor, with updated front and rear styling that included a more aggressive stance. The addition of the Firebird 400 model helped Pontiac compete more effectively in the muscle car market, particularly against rivals like the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang.

The Firebird 400 was marketed as a performance-oriented vehicle, appealing to younger buyers looking for speed and style. It was available in both coupe and convertible body styles, allowing for a range of consumer preferences.

▎Technical Specifications

The 1968 Pontiac Firebird 400 boasted impressive technical specifications that contributed to its reputation as a muscle car:

• Engine: The Firebird 400 was powered by a 400 cubic inch (6.6-liter) V8 engine, which produced 330 horsepower at 4,800 RPM and 420 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 RPM. This engine was known for its strong low-end torque and responsiveness.


• Transmission Options: Buyers could choose between a standard three-speed manual transmission or an optional four-speed manual transmission. There was also an available three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic transmission for those preferring an automatic driving experience.

• Performance: With its powerful engine and lightweight construction, the Firebird 400 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.5 seconds, making it one of the faster cars of its time.

• Suspension: The Firebird featured an independent front suspension with coil springs and a rear leaf spring setup, providing a balance between comfort and handling performance.

• Brakes: The car was equipped with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, providing adequate stopping power for its performance capabilities.

• Dimensions: The overall length of the Firebird 400 was approximately 185 inches (4,699 mm), with a width of about 72 inches (1,829 mm) and a height of around 51 inches (1,295 mm). The wheelbase measured 108 inches (2,743 mm), contributing to its stable handling.

• Weight: The curb weight of the Firebird 400 was around 3,300 pounds (1,497 kg), which was relatively light for a muscle car of that era.

▎Legacy

The 1968 Pontiac Firebird 400 remains a celebrated classic among muscle car enthusiasts. Its combination of stylish design, powerful performance, and relatively affordable price made it an attractive option during its production years. Today, it is sought after by collectors and car lovers alike, often restored to its original glory or modified for modern performance.

The Firebird legacy continued beyond 1968, with subsequent generations building on its success. However, the original Firebird 400 holds a special place in automotive history as a symbol of American muscle and performance.

▎Conclusion

The 1968 Pontiac Firebird 400 is more than just a car; it represents an era of American automotive innovation and enthusiasm for speed. With its powerful engine and striking design, it continues to capture the hearts of car enthusiasts around the world.