Used 1974 Pontiac Firebird for Sale near Modesto, CA

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Modesto, CA

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The 1970s gas crunch and government regulations neutered many former pony cars, the Pontiac Firebird being one of them. Though it was considered one of only two remaining performance cars on the market (along with the Corvette), incrased engine detuning meant the 1974 Firebird was more of a performance car in appearance, rather than behavior. The 1974 Firebird, like all American cars, had to get new federally-compliant rubber bumpers, replacing the invisible body-colored Endura ones. It made the overall profile clunkier, though not severely so. The rear spoiler was moved down and was now more for show than function. The V8 engine choices continued to lose power. The 350 V8 in the Esprit or Formula was still 150-hp, but the 400 was now down to 225-hp. The fact that the top-of-the-line 455 was now only 250-hp tells you all you need to know about the fall of the muscle cars. And it was only offered with an auto tran. The racing SD-455 lost a few horsepower as well, down to 290, but gained some torque, so it still handled like a zippy sports car. The Trans Am was the only trim that could be matched with either the 400, 455, or SD-455. Further proof of a changing era was that 1974 would be the last year for the heavy-duty Hydramatic auto tran and 4-speed manual transmission, as these were now unnecessary and mismatched for the depowered engines. The SD engine would also disappear after this year. The only constant would be the Screaming Chicken decal. It was a popular option on the Trans Am. A smaller logo in between the split grille was standard on all 1974 Firebirds. The car parked outside Jim Rockford's beach trailer was beginning to symbolize suave coolness, and its continued appearance in film and TV shows helped solidify its legendary stature.

4.9 Overall rating

(8 reviews)

Steve W

5.0

Reviewed a 1974 Pontiac Firebird on Aug 10, 2009

Love the feel of mashing the gas, the instant gradification of neck snapping acceleration. It does need paint and cosmetic trim, however it is one fun ride. This car will pass most anything on the road "except a gas station", at least for the first 1/4 mile.

Anonymous

5.0

Reviewed a 1974 Pontiac Firebird on Jan 23, 2009

1974 Navy Blue Pontiac Firebird Esprit bought in 1974 for $6333! Gas was 57 cents/gal. Kept it sparkling--under the hood too. Powder blue leather interior, wide Goodyear tires, deep dish faux wire wheels. Acceleration, handling (like a 'vette) was outstanding, the brakes worked w/out fail! But, tranny failed 1 year after purchase--"supposedly" from large wheels/tire combo--doubt it. Repair not covered under '74 warranty. Traded for a '76 Dodge Van--Boo.

Anonymous

4.0

Reviewed a 1974 Pontiac Firebird on Jan 20, 2015

Still have some minor work left on this car after spending 28 years in my Father's garage. Less than 28,000 original miles on this 350 two barrel. Honduras Maroon paint with white seats. Look forward to cruising in Spring 2015!

Mark S

5.0

Reviewed a 1974 Pontiac Firebird on Nov 05, 2009

My car can roast the tires up nice and hit a 13 second quarter mile. Handling is stiff like most muscle cars but the acceleration is awesome. I built the car up from a rusty pile of crap so the build quality is great and the dual ram air hood scoops are a nice touch. Gas is terrible but the fun I have driving it and the stares I get driving by are well worth it. I bought the car for $1000 and put $2500 back into roughly and the best thing about it is that its never done in my eyes and will be a life long project.

Jacob M

5.0

Reviewed a 1974 Pontiac Firebird on Jun 12, 2009

Acceleration is extremely fast, braking and handling are a little loose. it is 30+ years old so it does need some restoration, however, very solid for an old car. Interior and exterior are both very classy, leather inside and aerodynamic outside. Being a muscle car the gas mileage is not the best, but you dont notice when your having fun. Very fun car to drive, VERY fast, stereo with Panasonic DF-600 deck and 2 8" in. Pioneers

1974 Pontiac Firebird FAQs

How many 1974 Pontiac Firebird vehicles in Modesto, CA have no reported accidents or damage?

7 out of 7 for sale near Modesto, CA have no reported accidents or damage.

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