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In 1991, the Firebird Trans Am GTA arrived on the automotive market like a phoenix rising from the ashes. Its bold design and impressive performance have left their mark on the minds of sports car enthusiasts. Twenty-nine years later, this icon continues to arouse admiration and fuel debate: is the 1991 Firebird Trans Am GTA the perfect rebirth of the Phoenix?
The Pony Car Battle
During the 1980s, the streets of Detroit were the scene of a fierce duel between three great American legends: the Ford Mustang 5.0 Fox-body, the Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z, and the Pontiac Firebird Trans Am. Each model had its strengths , but the Trans Am GTA stood out for its inimitable style and his superior maneuverability.
The Essence of Trans Am GTA
Introduced in 1987, the Trans Am GTA (Grand Touring Americano) represented the top of the range Firebird. In 1991, equipped with the 5.7-liter V8 engine developing 240 hp and 340 lb-ft of torque, it promised impressive performance. But it is above all the WS6 package which made the GTA unique with its reinforced stabilizer bars, four-wheel disc brakes, and limited-slip differential.
A dream come true for Carl Melendez
Carl Melendez, a car enthusiast since his teenage years, has always had a soft spot for the Trans Am GTA. After parting with his first 1988 model, he searched for months before finding a 1991 model in perfect condition with only 15,000 kilometers on the odometer.
An Impressive Renovation
Carl spent many months renovating his new GTA. Thanks to the experts at Detroit Speed and Engineering, he upgraded the chassis and suspension for a impeccable handling. At the rear, he installed a QUADRAlink system, removing the old torque arm setup for more modern geometry.
| Year | 1987 | 1991 |
| Engine | 5.0L V8 | 5.7L V8 |
| Power | 205 hp | 240 hp |
| Couple | 275 lb-ft | 340 lb-ft |
| Brakes | Front discs | 4-wheel discs |
| Exhaust system | Monoblock | Catback Flowmaster |
| Audio system | Standard | Kenwood with CarPlay |
| Suspension | Standard | Detroit Speed Kit 3 |
| Rims | 15 inches | 18 inches with Cerakote Gold |
| Tires | Goodyear | Continental ExtremeContact |
A Modernized Interior
The interior of the GTA has also been modernized. While Carl kept the original retro styling, he added a Sparc Industries steering wheel inspired by modern Porsches and a Kenwood audio system with built-in navigation and CarPlay.
Event and Future Prospects
Since his acquisition, Carl has covered around 3000 kilometers in his GTA, mainly for weekend drives and car shows. He also plans to test the capabilities of his Trans Am on the track one day. When asked if he would ever part with this car, his answer was a resounding “no”.
- Style: Inimitable
- Performance: Superior
- Engine: 5.7L V8
- Torque: 340 lb-ft
- Upgrades: Detroit Speed chassis and suspension
- Exhaust system: Flowmaster
- Interior: Sparc steering wheel and Kenwood system
- Rims: Cerakote Gold 18 inches
- Tires: Continental ExtremeContact
FAQs
Q: What is special about the GTA compared to other Firebirds?
A: The GTA includes the WS6 package with suspension upgrades, four-wheel disc brakes, and a more powerful engine.
Q: How much horsepower does the 1991 GTA V8 make?
A: The 5.7L V8 engine develops 240 horsepower.
Q: Why did Carl Melendez choose the Trans Am GTA?
A: Carl always loved the unique style and performance of the GTA and was looking for a model from its past.
Q: What tires and rims did Carl install on his GTA?
A: He opted for 18-inch Cerakote Gold rims and Continental ExtremeContact tires.
Q: What’s in Carl’s GTA audio system?
A: Carl installed a Kenwood system with navigation, CarPlay, and Bluetooth.
Q: Does Carl’s GTA participate in events?
A: Yes, Carl often shows his GTA at exhibitions and plans to test it on the track.
