This October, the automotive collector world will reflect on 12 years having passed since the Pontiac Motor Division (PMD) of General Motors was phased out of existence. Some Pontiac enthusiasts find ways to commemorate the brand on an everyday level, including one F-body owner with the phrase “PMD RIP” on his car’s license plate.
The Pick of the Day is that car: a low-mileage 1990 Pontiac Firebird Formula listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Wilmington, Delaware. (Clink the link to view the listing)
Showing just 43,000 miles on the odometer, this third-generation Firebird looks about like one would expect – demonstrating clean body, nice finishes, and a well-kept interior. But as factory-fresh as it appears, this car is not without its modifications. The drivetrain originally consisted of a 700R4 four-speed automatic transmission, but torque is now channeled through a replacement Borg-Warner T5 five-speed manual. “Date codes are correct for the transmission,” the listing states.
Among the other updates are a set of stainless-steel headers, a repaired CD audio system, and a replacement fiberglass deck spoiler. The seller itemizes some of the options that were configured on the car when new including power windows and door locks, cruise control, and air conditioning.
The Firebird muscle car had evolved alongside its F-body sibling, the Chevrolet Camaro, into a third generation beginning in the 1982 model year. Noteworthy updates included a steeply raked windshield, flush-mounted side glass, and a hatchback in the rear. Trim and engineering updates took place each year that followed including a new front end in 1985, revised powertrains in 1989, and updated interior amenities in 1990. The generation phased out after 1992 to make room for an all-new body style.
But what about that nostalgic Pontiac license plate?
In late 2008, General Motors was under pressure from Congress to meet the requirements for a proposed $25 billion loan. Many restructuring changes were made within the GM family, including the elimination of the Hummer and Saturn brands, the sale of Saab, and massive personnel changes at factories and dealerships around the country. The Pontiac name was added to the list of casualties after 2009, with the last vehicle produced being a 2010 G6 four-door sedan.
For many, that meant the end of an era. The once-energetic brand of “We Build Excitement” met its demise, but thanks to license plates like “PMD RIP,” the reminder is always there.
The seller is asking $17,500 or best offer for this low-mileage Firebird reminiscent of the good old days.
To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.
What motor does the firebird have? I would like to talk to the owner. 864675959
It’s a “formula 350” that means it has a 350 ci engine.
you are short a digit in your phone number. my email is formula400ra@gmail
I’m a GTO guy, but always liked this generation of Firebirds best. I’d love to have an Indianapolis 500 pace car version with the turbo Buick V6. The GTA models were cool, too, but I prefer a stick.