what’s the difference between the pontiac gto & pontiac firebird (or pony car & muscle car)?
im looking to buy a used car and im trying to figure out what is the difference between the two and why they are seperated into two differnt car classes. Im looking to buy a used no older than 1998 and its between a chevrolet camaro, ford mustang, pontiac firebird, or pontiac gto. thanks in advance.
By: Tre
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By: Tre
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the firebird is still considered a sports car. the gto is a sport(luxury) coupe.. silly but i guess they think it separates the fact that they were both muscle cars –. with the v8’s anyway.. the gto is a bitchen car . the ‘ls” engine is by far a step above all the rest. the only ones that will have that upgrade are the firebird t/a’s and camaro z/28 or ss models. im not a big ford fan but, some of the gt mustangs are nice cars too. good luck with your choice..
A pony car is smaller than a muscle car. A muscle car is a mid size, 2 door family car with a big block V8 in it. Like the GTO was a LeMans with a high output 400 V8. And most muscle cars had bucket seats, consoles, gauge package and 4 speed sticks.
A pony car has a smaller wheelbase and is shorter in overall length. It came in two versions, the mom & pop with a 6 cylinder or a small block V8. And the muscle version with a high output big block V8. Pony cars were never thought of as a family car, which muscle cars were based on. There were always considered to be a sporty car, although not quite a sports car since they had a back seat.
I respect the question. Pony cars were small interior than so called muscle cars.
1. Adults can fit in the back seat of a GTO. Is the back seat important? If so, the only option when you consider the competition. Since you mentioned no older that 1998 I am assuming 04-06 GTOs (built in Australia by Holden)
2. The GTO has fully independent suspension.
3. The Mustang and GTO can be purchased newer, the Camaro & Firebird will be older designs with a loyal following.
4. GTP had all aluminum block LS1 and LS2 pushrod V8. Mustang has a smaller DOHC V8 with about 100hp less in standard GT trim. Listen to the engines, drive them. I will admit being biased as the torque and response from the pushrod v8 is awesome.
5. GTO is limited production, introduction into US and was built in Australia.
6. Cool factor. Ever watched Mad Max? The car was a Holden, just like the GTO. And the door jam lists mfgr as Holden Limited.
7. Late model LS1 LS2 have been fingered for piston slap. I have not experienced it however.
8. Some late model GTOs experienced a strut tower rub.
The GTO actually has a quality interior.