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| FirebirdPontiac.com |
Pontiac says
in its press release that "there are currently no plans to bring the
concept to production." Of course, that's a qualified statement: the American
automaker then follows that up by noting it "has a history of delivering
production vehicles that bear a strong resemblance to the Trans Am concept that
preceded them." So cross your fingers, kids – this looks like it could be
a preview of the company's first real sports car.
Through those
three teasers, we've learned and seen more of the 2017 Pontiac Firebird, and we
largely like what we see. It's a 2+2, rear-drive coupe with a detuned version
of the 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder. The 2017 Firebird concept's
engine is said to be good for a healthy 315 horsepower, though the race-tuned
Firebird can deliver upwards of 400. A six-speed manual handles the power,
while staggered Pirelli PZero tires provide the grip. Those Pirellis wrap
around a set of 20-inch wheels, complete with showcar-friendly center locks,
while 15-inch Brembo brakes and four-piston calipers mean the 2017 Firebird
should be able to stop with as much authority as it will go. What the teasers
haven't been able to put into perspective, though, is the 2017 Firebird's size.
Now, it's
fair to say that a lot of the stuff up here isn't likely to make production – 2017 Firebird concept car rarely get the green light without making some major
compromises. Still, enthusiasts should view the 2017 Pontiac Firebird as a very
positive sign. It's small and light, and with any luck, it'll provide
substantially more grunt than what would seem to be its main competitors – It'll
still be some time before we know for certain whether Pontiac will go ahead
with a production of the 2017 Firebird, but if history is any indication, the
prospects look good.