1973 Pontiac Firebird
The '73 Firebird: a cool classic! Its sleek, slightly more subdued styling than earlier models still packed muscle-car attitude. A star in pop culture (think Smokey and the Bandit), it marked a transition point in Firebird history, balancing performance with emerging fuel efficiency concerns. A true '70s icon!
Decode Classic VINs to Get Vehicle History Report and Build Sheet
The 1973 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400: A Classic Tale of Speed and Style
The 1973 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400 is not just any car; it's a legend. Born in an era where muscle cars were all the rage, it captured hearts with its robust engine, sleek lines, and raw performance. This iconic model was part of Pontiac's second generation of Firebirds, introduced in 1970, and it embodied a new wave of design and engineering finesse. With its 400 cubic inch V8 engine, it managed to balance both power and the tightening emissions regulations of the time.

1973 Pontiac Firebird Models:
Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.
How Much is Pontiac Firebird Worth?
Original MSRP :
Outstanding
Clean
Average
Rough
1973 Pontiac Firebird Specs
Interested in buying a classic car or selling one?
Access detailed history reports for classic vehicles from hundreds of manufacturers.
- Accident Records
- Theft Records
- Loan & Lien Information
- Auction Information
- Salvage Information and more

History of the 1973 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400
Initially, the Firebird line aimed to bring European flair to American muscle. Designed to sit neatly between the base Firebird and the higher-end Trans Am, the 1973 Formula 400 did just that. You know what? It wasn't just about power under the hood; it was about charisma on the road.
Learn more about a classic car: Get Build Sheet by VIN.
Access reproduced classic build sheets to learn more about your classic vehicle details.
- Standard Specifications
- Original Base Price
- Standard & Optional Equipment
- Exterior & Interior Colors
- VIN ID & Location description

Performance Metrics
When you pop the hood, you'd find an engine that embodies the spirit of the muscle car era. This car could clock 0 to 60 mph in less than 5.5 seconds. For a car emerging into stricter emission times, that's downright impressive. If you're keen on exploring more about its performance qualifications, consider using a to uncover even more insights about your own classic beauty.
Famous Figures Who Own the Pontiac Firebird Formula 400
Speed and style tend to attract a certain crowd, don't they? Owners of this vehicle included rock legend Jim Morrison and film star Burt Reynolds, who made the car a cultural phenomenon in Smokey and the Bandit. Talk about driving off into the sunset with flair.
1973 Pontiac Firebird Gallery














Pop Culture Impact
The Firebird Formula 400 didn't just roar on the roads; it echoed in movies, music, and even car memorabilia. As seen in Smokey and the Bandit or heard in various rock anthems, this car is more than just metal and wheels—it's a statement. And for folks diving into the rich history of such iconic machines, a might just reveal tales worth retelling.
Community and Events
Car enthusiasts keep the spirit alive. From collectors to casual admirers, the Firebird Formula 400 remains a headliner at car shows and auto events. There's always a buzz about restoration and performance upgrades as folks gather to admire these beauties from every angle.
Interested in Buying or Selling a Classic Car?
---
If you're in the market for a classic car, or maybe looking to sell one, having the right documentation is key. A vehicle history report and the build sheet can make all the difference. With tools like the and , you can uncover essential details like:
Accident Records
Theft Records
Loan & Lien Information
Auction Information
Salvage Information and more
These insights might just be the storyteller your classic car needs.
Fun Facts about the Pontiac Firebird Formula 400
Did you know this model was caught on film before soaring to popularity? The Smokey and the Bandit movie gave it an on-screen legacy many cars dream of.
It's not just about looks; the Firebird was a real contender on the racing tracks, promising thrills with every shift and gear change.
Classic Car VIN Lookup App |Now available on both Android and iOS!
At Classic Decoder, we believe that developing a mobile app is a great way to extend our classic car data solution hub to as many users as possible across the globe. Our app is built with users and precision in mind. It holds the key to unlocking the history and details of any retro car at your fingertips. It also comes with fascinating and user-friendly features that make it stand out from other mobile apps designed for this purpose.
The Classic Decoder app lets you decode and lookup any classic VIN in a flash. Access accurate vehicle information and history, make an informed decision faster, and buy and trade in classic cars with confidence.

Download The Classic Decoder App now.
Some unique features include:
- Support all classic VIN lengths from 5 to 13 digits
- Support classic cars produced from 1910 – 1980
- Online Garage features – to add and manage your vehicles
- 24/7 Customer Support
- Easy onboarding for first-time users
Explore Pontiac Firebird from Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Well, let's see... Spotting a '73 Firebird? It's got that distinctive, you know, shark-like nose, kinda aggressive-looking. The body lines are pretty sharp for its time; it's a bit of a looker, really. And of course, the taillights are a dead giveaway—those stacked horizontal lights are iconic. Beyond that, the overall size is pretty substantial—it's a big, heavy car; pretty different than what we see on the roads today, hey? They came in a bunch of colors too! Some of the most popular colors that year included, let me see, butterscotch, and a few of those eye-popping yellows and oranges that were popular back in the day. Think of it like this: it's a classic muscle car, easy to identify once you've laid your eyes on a few of them.
Okay, so the engine lineup for a '73 Firebird was pretty beefy—if you know what I mean! You had a range of options, from the more modest (though still powerful for its time) inline-six cylinder, to the V8s—boy, those V8s were something special. There were a bunch of different versions of the V8, offering varying horsepower ratings; it all depended on what the buyer was looking for in the car. Think of it like choosing your favorite flavor of ice cream—a ton of options! Some of the most popular ones included the 400 cubic inch V8 or the bigger 455; they were real monsters under the hood. That being said, the availability could depend on the trim level and specific options selected, so you'd need to check a car's original specifications for complete certainty.
Most '73 Firebirds came with either a three-speed automatic transmission or a four-speed manual transmission, although some models may have had other more specialized choices. This is one area where your specific car's details should be checked carefully. It's kinda like choosing between an automatic and a stick shift in today's vehicles; although some things haven't changed all that much, there is a big difference. You know the feeling, right? The manual is engaging, but the automatic is a lot more convenient for everyday use.
Figuring out the value of a classic car like that isn't always easy! You really gotta do some digging. Condition is everything—a pristine, well-maintained Firebird will fetch a much higher price than one that's seen better days. Rarity of options and specific features matter, too. Think of it as the difference between a beat-up baseball card and a mint-condition one—the difference can be astounding! Websites specializing in classic car valuations, along with consulting with classic car experts, appraisers, or even attending local car shows, can give you a much better idea of its worth; it's a multifaceted process. Don't hesitate to seek help from professionals.
Ah, classic car ownership. It can be a rewarding hobby, but you should always be prepared for some maintenance hassles! These cars are old, after all. Things like the carburetor, the brake system, and the electrical system can sometimes give some trouble. Rust is also a significant concern, especially for cars that haven't been stored properly. You might think about having a pre-purchase inspection done by a mechanic specializing in classic cars; that is a great idea, a good investment if you're serious. Think of it like a health check-up for your new old friend!