PONTIAC Firebird 1967-1969 Photos, engines & full specs

GM's answer to the 1964 Mustang came rather late, in 1967, with two new models: the Chevrolet Camaro and the Pontiac Firebird.

While the Camaro took most of the fame, the Pontiac Firebird was its badge-engineered sibling. Both were available with straight-sixes for the base versions, and both were offered with big V8s under the hood. However, unlike the Camaro, which was built to compete with the Mustang, the Firebird competed against the Mercury Cougar, the stylish, longer-wheelbase brother of the 'Stang.

Sharing the same Coke-bottle design styling as its sibling, the Firebird tried a different approach for the front end and incorporated the bumper into the bodywork. Moreover, the front fascia sported a quad-headlight design and the Pontiac-specific vertical slat in the middle of the grille. Depending on the trim level, the Firebird was offered with 14" steel wheels fitted with chromed covers or several other options. Unlike the Camaro, which sported a flat hood, the Firebird featured a V-shaped powerdome extended to the A-pillars.

Inside, the Firebird featured carpeted floors and a nicer interior to be than its sibling. The bucket seats at the front were more comfortable and sported vinyl upholstery. But, even in its most performant version, it still wore its classier clothing.

Under the hood, GM offered the Firebird with a choice of five engines at the launch, starting with the 166 hp (123 kW) inline-six and going up to the mighty 400 cid (6.6-liter) V8 that offered 325 hp (242 kW).