The 1967 Pontiac Firebird Sprint came onto the automotive scene a little later than Chevrolet's Camaro, but when the Firebird arrived, it came on strong.
Even in its inaugural season, Pontiac's ponycar exhibited a range of temperaments, from mild-mannered to tempestuous. Pontiac promoted its quintet as "The Magnificent Five," available in hardtop coupe or convertible form.
Pontiac Firebird Image Gallery
 ©2007 Publications International, Ltd. The 1967 Pontiac Firebird Sprint was available with the first-ever hood-mounted tachometer. See more Pontiac Firebird pictures. |
Anyone who simply liked the look of the Firebird could opt for a base model with the innovative overhead-cam six and column shift, yielding a leisurely 165 horsepower.
Sprint equipment added $116, featuring a racier camshaft and four-barrel carburetor in the six-cylinder engine, plus a floor-mounted three-speed gearshift and stiffer suspension. A 326-cid V-8 cost $95 extra; the high-output 326 added $180.58 (including racing stripes).
Going all the way to the 400-cid V-8 demanded $274, but brought a distinctive twin-scoop hood, dual exhausts, extra-firm suspension, and redline wide-oval tires. "When it talks," ads claimed of the 400-cid V-8, "you listen." Topping the performance tree was the Ram 400, featuring functional hood scoops.
Modestly motivated Firebirds were available with a two-speed automatic transmission. Three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic was the choice with 400 V-8 power.
 ©2007 Publications International, Ltd. Although the 1967 Pontiac Firebird Sprint was overshadowed by the other Firebird models, the Sprint was a great muscle car for the price. |
Because the single-leaf rear springs were prone to "wheel hop" under
hard acceleration, mid-range models had an adjustable track bar on the
right side. High-performance editions received two bars.
Base-priced about $200 higher than Camaro, Firebirds had a long option list, including front disc brakes and a Cordova vinyl roof. Only 19,750 cars carried a V-8 and manual shift. Firebird's optional hood-mounted tachometer was an industry "first."
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