1992 Pontiac Sunbird

An economy compact that offers a range of driving choices, from sedan to coupe to convertible, the 1992 Pontiac Sunbird gets another round of trim designation shuffling.  The base model coupe and sedan is now LE, and what used to be the LE convertible is now SE.  LE and SE sedans and coupes feature the 2.0-liter, 96-hp I4 engine and 5-speed manual transmission.  The GT coupe and SE convertible favor the more powerful 3.1-liter, 140-hp V6.  This engine is an option in the SE coupe and sedan.
New in the 1992 Sunbird is standard ABS brakes.  The convertible gets a glass rear window that comes with a defroster.  A new option is automatic door locks that engage once you shift out of park.  Most of the trims come with bare-bone features, not much more than power brakes and steering and a radio.  The SE and GT coupes have sporty Rallye gauges and a rear spoiler, and the GT adds a sports suspension.  Air conditioning, and windows and locks are optional across the line, except for the convertible, where they come standard.
Overall, 1992 Sunbird owners are happy with their purchase, mostly for its low price and cost-saving fuel economy.  But the V6 has good pickup and is generally fast enough to add a little kick to your everyday commute.  The car handles well and seems to last a long time.  It does have its share of problems, however, including frequent alternator replacements, and a tendency for rain water to collect in the front foot wells.  Drivers wish it had even more horsepower and less cheapy and easily breakable plastic parts.  Rust develops on the doors, there are no cupholders, rear legroom is cramped, and there is noticeable shudder at high speeds.