Documentation received from the Pontiac Historical Society:
I was able to get some fantastic details from PHS, including the window sticker, as well as the information you see here.
Yes, this has been very helpful in determining just how much this car has been modified. All changes mentioned on this page, were how I bought the car.
So, it's clear the car is not 100% original, but I am happy with the changes made and in my mind, they are period correct and they have stayed true to the spirit of a 1968 Pontiac Firebird.
Fun fact: Because the rear windows were so small in the Firebirds (and Camaros), General Motors had to create a smaller version of the window sticker to fit.
This is the obvious item. As shown on the window sticker, this car started life in 'Verdoro Green.' At some point, it was repainted in Solar Red. I don't have any indication of when this happened, but I was told by the previous owner that it was about 20 years ago. Even though it's not the original color, I am very happy with the red. I think it suits the car perfectly, and for me, I wouldn't want it in any other color except Solar Red.
The hood represents another enhancement over the original design. Only the Firebirds equipped with the optional 400 engine featured the distinctive hood scoops. This hood also includes the optional hood tachometer, which was non-functional when I purchased the car. However, I was determined that is needed to be working. More on that later.
When I purchased the car, it came with an aftermarket AM/FM/Bluetooth unit installed in the dashboard, along with Pioneer 4 1/2" speakers in the kick panels. The sound quality was lacking, so I recognized that improving the audio system would be one of my challenges. The rear antenna was present but offered no improvement in reception quality. I replaced it with a short black rubber antenna that complemented the roof and allowed the cover to fit better over the car. Fortunately, the previous owner still had the original AM radio for it. I plan to reinstall it at some point, even though it is more for looks than function. Stay tuned for updates on that!
I'm not entirely certain what to add here, except to mention that the car features front disc brakes, which were not included in the original build sheet. It appears that they were converted at some point. This is another valuable modification, even if it deviates from the original specifications.
The car features upgraded 15-inch Rally II wheels adorned with bright chrome trim rings. One can only assume it originally came equipped with steel wheels and hubcaps. However, when you take in the profile of this beauty, it’s hard to dispute the striking combination of those wheels and the vibrant red paint. They complement each other perfectly, like peanut butter and jelly!
