Shop ClassicIndustries.com
classic-news-blog-main-header-1

The 1970 Pontiac Firebird: A Muscle Car Evolution

The 1970 Pontiac Firebird marked the beginning of the second generation of Pontiac’s answer to the Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Camaro. Launched in the spring of 1970, the second-gen Firebird underwent a radical redesign that distanced it from the boxy aesthetic of the 1960s and embraced a more European-inspired, aggressive styling. Often hailed as one of the most beautifully sculpted American muscle cars of its era, the 1970 Firebird wasn't just about looks - it also packed serious performance credentials and helped Pontiac maintain its reputation as General Motors' performance brand.

Jay Leno's Garage Video: The Golden Era of Trans Am Racing (1966–1972)

The years 1966 to 1972 are widely regarded as the golden age of Trans American (Trans Am) racing, a thrilling period that saw factory-backed muscle cars, legendary drivers, and fierce rivalries come together to create one of the most exciting chapters in American motorsport history. The Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) launched the series in 1966 to promote showroom stock sedans, but what followed was a war between automakers on the racetrack that would shape the identity of American performance cars for decades.

1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am Built for Driving and Showing

Vintage Pontiac GTOs from the 1960's through the 70's have been expensive for many years. Having that sort of muscle car as your favorite while you're a broke high school student could make you yearn for something that's simply out of reach. Evan Rose was a GTO fan for these formative gearhead years as a kid. Thankfully, he one day happened to see a 1979 10th anniversary Firebird Trans Am at a car show that really caught his eye.

Drag School Boot Camp: A Transformative Program in Lewisberry, Pennsylvania

Nestled in the heart of central Pennsylvania, the Drag School Boot Camp in Lewisberry stands as a beacon of hope and transformation for young adults facing the consequences of their past actions. Operating under the umbrella of National Drag School Youth Projects Inc., this program has been a cornerstone of rehabilitation and community service for over two decades.

1992 SLP Firehawk: A Rare "Corvette Killer" Pontiac Firebird

When Pontiac released the third-generation Firebird in 1982, many enthusiasts felt underwhelmed by the performance. As a result of tightening emissions restrictions, the top-trim 305ci V8 engine in the '82 Trans Am produced only 165 horsepower. These numbers would improve by the end of the third gen's run in 1992, but there was always a desire for an even more potent Firebird — one that could challenge GM's flagship Corvette. A startup called Street Legal Performance (SLP) partnered with Pontiac dealers to make this dream a reality. The resulting car was dubbed the SLP Firehawk, and only 25 were sold that year, making it an extremely rare vehicle today.

Classic Industries: Your Ultimate Firebird & Trans Am Parts Resource

When it comes to restoring, customizing, or upgrading a Pontiac Firebird or Trans Am, having access to high-quality parts is essential. Whether you're working on a first-generation 1967 Firebird or a late-model 2002 Trans Am, Classic Industries has been a trusted name in the restoration industry for decades, offering a comprehensive catalog of parts and accessories for every year of the Pontiac Firebird.

Videos: The Top Eight Automotive Designers of the 1960s and 1970s

The 1960s and 1970s were transformative decades for the automotive world. The post-WWII boom had led to the birth of a new era of car design, and designers were pushing the boundaries of what was possible in terms of style, innovation, and performance. This was a time when cars were not just modes of transportation—they were symbols of status, freedom, and a rapidly evolving culture. From sleek muscle cars to futuristic concepts, the contributions of key automotive designers during these two decades shaped the vehicles we know today. Below are some of the most influential and visionary designers of the 1960s and 1970s.

Video: Jay Leno Drives a Real "Rockford Files" Firebird

"Hey, that car looks just like the one from The Rockford Files!" It's a statement owner Pat McEntee hears frequently. Then he has to explain that no, it doesn't just look like the car, it IS the car. His '77 Firebird Formula is certainly one of the most famous Pontiacs ever made, right alongside Burt Reynolds' "Smokey and the Bandit" Trans Am. According to his documentation, James Garner took the wheel of this Firebird on the famous detective TV series "The Rockford Files," which aired on NBC between 1974 and 1980.

Video: Chip Foose & Classic Industries: Revolutionizing Car Renovation

Chip Foose is a name synonymous with automotive artistry and innovation. Known for his seamless blend of creative vision, technical expertise, and passion for car restoration, Foose has become a legendary figure in the custom car industry. His iconic television show, Overhaulin', has not only showcased his remarkable skills but has also inspired millions of automotive enthusiasts around the world. Among his many partnerships, Foose's collaboration with Classic Industries stands out as a perfect marriage of talent and resources, resulting in automotive magic.

Joe and Amanda Martin Lead Iron Resurrection with Classic Car Revivals

The world of custom car restoration and fabrication has long been a realm where passion meets artistry. Few exemplify this as well as Joe and Amanda Martin, alongside their talented team at Iron Resurrection. Known for their expertise in breathing new life into rusted-out relics and forgotten classics, the Martins and their crew continue to set the gold standard in automotive restoration.