While the overall look of the Firebird stayed the same from the previous year, the minor updates helped this and subsequent models really stand out. The altered front end wasn’t as drastic as the wrap around window, which provided a sleek new look to the cars. More importantly, it dramatically increased visibility, which had been a major problem with the first of the second-generation models.

After the elimination of most of the pony car competition throughout the 1974 model year, Firebird was left to compete only with its GM sister Camaro. And since the Z28 model was discontinued for 1975, the Firebird Trans Am was easily the top performing pony car that year. This is despite the fact that, at the beginning the model year, the top performing engine was a 400 CID V8 that produced a mere 185 horsepower.

Pontiac had elected not to include a 455 CID V8 model as had previously been customary, likely in response to rising fuel prices. However, in the middle of the year they bent to consumer (and press) wishes and brought back a 455. However, this engine was simply taken from Pontiac’s Bonneville and was rated at a mere 200 horsepower. The top 455 engine in 1974 produced 290 horsepower.

Other engine options remained essentially the same as they had been the previous year. Base model Firebirds were equipped with a 250 CID six-cylinder rated at 100 horsepower, while the base V8 was a 350 CID motor rated at 155 horsepower.

The elimination of the pony car competition allowed Firebird sales to flourish. Total production was 84,063, up from 73,729 in 1974.

Base Firebird

While the top selling Firebird had previously alternated between the base model and the Esprit, both of these were eclipsed in 1975 by the Trans Am, which would lead Firebird sales for the rest of the second-generation models. The base models came in second with a total production of 22,293.

Firebird Esprit

Pontiac designed the Esprit as the luxury Firebird, and also gave it the 350 V8 standard. Total production for the year was 20,862.

Firebird Formula

Also including the 350 V8 standard, the Formula models featured an upgraded suspension that resulted in better handling. Buyers could also opt for the 400 CID engine, and production for the year was at 13,670.

Trans Am

As mentioned before, 1975 marked the first year the Trans Am was the best selling Firebird, but it certainly wouldn’t be the last. Total production was at 27,274, and this number would continue to climb tremendously throughout the end of the decade and into the 1980s.

Pony Car Competition

By 1975, the Firebird and the Camaro were the only pony cars left. The Mustang had been converted into a compact car, while the Mercury Cougar went the opposite direction and was transformed into a mid-sized luxury car. All other pony cars – the AMC Javelin, Dodge Challenger and Plymouth Barracuda – were discontinued throughout the 1974 model year.

Because of the lack of competition, sales of the Firebird and Camaro would continue to blossom throughout the rest of the decade. Without the Z28, the Camaro’s top performance offering was 155 horsepower, making Firebird the most powerful pony car on the road.

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