1973 Firebird Formula 455

Engine: 455 cubic inch V8
Transmission: 3-speed automatic
Gear Ratio: 2.73
Wheelbase: 108 inches
Wheels: 15-inch Honeycomb
Tires: 215/70/15 Firestone radial
There's a correct twin snorkel air cleaner assembly up top, complete with '455-4 High-Performance' decal on the lid, corporate turquoise engine enamel, and nice little details like the tower hose clamps used throughout. A big 4-barrel carburetor up top gives it instant throttle response and there's a bit of a cam inside, so it has a high-performance idle that sounds wicked. Even the original heat shields on the exhaust manifolds were retained and a fresh valve cover decal installed to really complete the factory look. Options include power steering and brakes, so it's easy to handle around town, but this engine is quite a bit more powerful than anything you could buy in 1973—the builder estimates it at about 425 horsepower.
It's backed by a TH350 3-speed automatic transmission that was rebuilt at the same time, so it snaps off crisp shifts, both up and down, and with 2.73 gears and a Posi limited slip in the 10-bolt rear end, the car is still plenty potent on the roll with all that torque on tap. Nevertheless, it smooths out for the highway and cruises along effortlessly at modern highway speeds and never seems busy or over-stressed. Part of that comes from the fresh dual exhaust system, which uses an OEM-style transverse muffler and Trans Am type double chrome tips. And while you're looking around down there, just take another moment to admire the beautifully detailed chassis, which looks like it belongs under a concours piece. Red oxide floors, new lines and hoses, fresh bushings, proper markings, reproduction tags, and bright hardware all add up to a car with no stories, no excuses, and a ton of potential because someone has already invested a great deal of cash in getting it right. Even the awesome honeycomb wheels are restored, not reproductions, and carry relatively recent 215/70/15 Firestone radials.