1967 Pontiac Firebird Sprint

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.

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."