When we first spotted this blue 1968 Firebird in our showroom parking lot, we thought it was simply a clean restoration project with a nice set of 17-inch wheels. That's exactly what it looks like, and exactly what owner David Willis wants you to think. However, this deceptive Pontiac proves once and for all that looks can be deceiving.
What appears to be an ordinary Firebird is in fact a heavily-modified 600hp pro-touring wolf in sheep's clothing. When David popped the hood, our jaws dropped at the sight of a GM LSA crate motor—the same supercharged 6.2L found in the Cadillac CTS-V. For an engaging driving experience, the 556hp V8 engine was paired with a Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual transmission. Delivered on a pallet direct from GM, this combination commands a price of over $20,000.
The powertrain alone was enough to excite us, but the modifications didn't stop there. Not by a long shot. It turns out the only thing that's stock about this car is the exterior. This Firebird sports a full Heidts suspension package, with Mustang II tubular front end, Pro-G independent rear suspension, adjustable coilover shocks, and upgraded Wilwood disc brakes. Even the wider 17-inch wheels were custom-made to resemble the factory design.
Although these modifications make the car mind-bendingly fast at the track and road course, it has also been built for comfortable street driving. It's got a Vintage Air A/C system, Dakota Digital gauges, power windows and locks, custom heated and cooled bucket seats, and even automatic headlights. Essentially, all the comforts of a modern luxury car in a classic package. Oh, and did we mention it has nearly 600hp?
This Firebird is definitely one of the most extreme builds we've seen in our showroom parking lot, and you'd never even know it's more than a well-done restoration. Until it leaves you in a cloud of burnt rubber at a stop light, that is.
Whether you've got a high-dollar custom build or a simple weekend project, Classic Industries has all the parts and accessories you could ever need. Visit our web site for a free catalog, or come by our showroom in sunny Huntington Beach, California, to show us your car in person.
