Used 1996 Pontiac Firebird for Sale Nationwide
39 results
About 1996 Pontiac Firebird
Overview
The 1996 model brings with it some additional options as well as some newly standardized equipment. The 3.8-liter V6 engine which was optional in the 1995 models, is standard in the 1996 base model, and the Formula had its 5.7-liter V8 enhanced to 285 horsepower (305 in the Trans Am).
As always, the Firebird's big engine is what distinguishes it from other sports cars--especially those in its price range where it remains unmatched in value. Alloy wheels with painted surfaces add a sleeker look to the pony car. A variety of packages were available to sport up the look of the car, as well as to add some nice features, such as more engine power, traction control, and remote keyless entry.
Minuses of the Firebird include a failure to adhere to slippery roads (especially in Winter) and a lack of passenger and cargo room.
Relevant articles
The Best Muscle Cars You Can Get for Cheap in 2026
Cheap 1960s American muscle cars used to be everywhere, and they were cheap, too. Alas, those days are over, but there are lots of muscle cars from the past three decades that will light up your tires for less than $20,000, and here, we've assembled some of the best.
Who Makes Pontiac Cars?
Pontiac was an American brand that produced cars between 1931 and 2010. A division of General Motors, it focused on mid-range models but also created some famous muscle cars through the years.
4.6 Overall rating
Filter by rating
Devin T
Reviewed a 1996 Pontiac Trans Am on Nov 25, 2008
It has great straight line performance and is much better in the twisties than people would have you believe. The motor is absolutely bullet-proof and just as powerful as the newest Mustangs in stock form, running about the same times for 9 years longer. The interior build quality is typical GM, especially for a car with a V8 and low $20k price. The money went into the drivetrain. The appearance is very nice to me. The front end looks much better on the 98-02 Firebirds and the exhaust does not fill out the rear bumper at all but a catback fixed that. Fuel mileage in this thing is amazing for what it is. I see about 26 mpg highway with a vacuum leak as it only turns 1800 rpms at 80 mph. Cars without any issues will bring in 28-30mpg. City mileage is what you would expect for a muscle car but the average in the low 20s is great. As for fun, well, it's an F-body. This car is all about laying down some rubber and it's impossible to resist. It does get tiring having every kid in his Honda trying to race you but that's about the only downside. It's also a great platform for modification which is a lot of fun in itself. Don't buy this car if you are looking for something refined as it isn't. Buy it for the big smokey burnouts that put a smile on your face.
Randy L
Reviewed a 1996 Pontiac Formula on Apr 1, 2008
The car handle extremely well. Wonderful acceleration as well as top speed, even though I have never reached it.
Billy R
Reviewed a 1996 Pontiac Base on Nov 18, 2010
this was my first car when i turned 16 and what a thrill it was. the perfect car for me to hit the road with. good acceleration but not too much a new driver couldnt handle effectivly. for a rear-wheel car it handled surprisingly well since its low but wide stance. american made so it had its faults here and there but overall a solid car. i loved the aggressive look the firebirds and trans ams took in the late 90's to early 2000's. gas wasnt too crucial since it was only a 6 cyl but it made for the perfect mix of fun and practicallity.
Gerrit T
Reviewed a 1996 Pontiac Base on Oct 19, 2011
The acceleration for this car is more than you would expect from a normal V6. It gives you plenty of pep without sacrificing much fuel economy. The car is very fun the drive and handles corners great. The interior is a little cheaply made, but as long as you aren't rowdy on the inside I think you should be okay. I consistently get around 22-22mpg with a good mix of city and highway driving. This car has always been reliable and enjoyable.
1996 Pontiac Firebird Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| Formula Convertible | $25,789 |
| Convertible | $22,949 |
| Base | $16,119 |
| Trans Am Convertible | $27,869 |
| Trans Am | $21,919 |
| Formula | $19,969 |
1996 Pontiac Firebird Price Trends
CarGurus tracks the prices of millions of used car listings every year. See how the average price of 1996 Pontiac Firebird prices has changed over time.
See more price trends
