WS-6 Package 5.7 Liter Ram Air V-8 6-Speed Manual Leather Interior

1997 Pontiac Trans Am

In 1996 Pontiac reintroduced the WS6 Performance Package for $2,995. It added a firmer suspension with larger sway bars and silver 17x8-inch cast aluminum five-spoke wheels wrapped in 275/40ZR17 tires. Also included was a functional Ram Air system that boosted the 5.7-liter LT1 from 285hp to 305hp. The Pontiac Firebird remained in production for 35 years and four generations. It would go on to become an extremely successful American performance car as well as a pop cultural reference point from Rockford to the Bandit and beyond.

The engine revs climb to a crescendo and the tire-shredding torque kicks in as the clutch is released. One might expect it to breathe fire, but instead you are greeted with something even better: loud, deep crackling exhaust notes. The Pontiac Firebird Trans Am WS6 is the most beastly bird in the flock, and the split front grille resembles a dragon's wide nostrils. Fire breathing, indeed.

Exterior
Draped in menacing black, this clean, good paint condition exterior steel car presents nicely. A few scratches and dings, chips and wear can be noted on this 36K original mile car. It wears the WS-6 badging on the rear as well as in the middle of the hubs. A smoked glass removable “T” top is leak free and can be stored in the rear cargo hatchback. A rear spoiler is attached to the hatch. Polished 5 spoke wheels are all around.

Interior
Dark Pewter leather buckets and a rear 2+2 setup are within the nicely preserved passenger compartment. Carpet is good and stain free, and dash is clean. Noted options are power seats, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, a digital and analog dash instrument cluster, A/C, and a Pontiac factory Monsoon stereo with CD and Equalizer.

Drivetrain
A 5.7 Liter RAM AIR V8 sits within an original engine bay. This is attached to a 6-speed manual transmission.

Undercarriage
Of course, I would be remiss if was not to mention the snazzy handling WS-6 suspension, but also added is a Strut tower brace, and an SL-P Cat-Back exhaust. Surface rust is noted on all the exposed bare steel parts, but unibody is sound and rust free. Some corrosion of brake lines, and 4-wheel disc brakes are seen.

Overall good used condition, this WS-6 5.7 Liter V8 with low mileage, a few scratches and chips and signs of use but certainly not abuse, is here for the taking at Classic Auto Mall.