Past Posts and Stories

  • Firebird Day at The Museum – 2022 - With the threat of rain and possibly hail in the forecast, several 'birds did not make it to our event - but we still had 30 FIrebirds, Trans Am's and Formulas of various years on hand, and we still had a great time getting together. Here are some of the Continue Reading →
  • FF 2021 -   By Dave Sullivan Recently Mary Jo and I attended the three-day Firebird festival in the St Lewis area. This story is a summary of this All-Firebird weekend. It was an outstanding event that had approximately 150 Firebirds including many Trans Am’s. There were also some very nice Formula Firebirds Continue Reading →
  • Book Review – The Definitive Firebird & Trans Am Guide 1970 1/2 – 1981 - This book is the second in the series of Definitive Guides to the history and details of the Pontiac Firebird, by noted automotive author, Rocky Rotella.  Our club had a small part in helping Rocky with his first book: The Definitive Firebird & Trans Am Guide 1967-1969, by rounding up Continue Reading →
  • A Great Firebird with a Swiss Racing History - The word on the street is that only a couple of 400 H.O. Firebirds found their way to Europe in 1968. Just as unique is the story of the one presented here, as history is known back to the day the original order was placed for the car at Werkhof-Garage Continue Reading →
  • The First Ram Air II Firebird Produced - I first met Jim Mino at the Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals in Rosemont Illinois in 2016. Jim is a quiet, soft-spoken guy that you could easily pass by in this world of flashy people that demand attention. I really should have taken more time to talk with him, not Continue Reading →
  • Cruisin’ by the Fjords of Norway - How many 1st Generation Firebirds would you see above the Arctic Circle? Probably not too many but there is at least one, a pristine '67 326 Coronado Gold convertible running around the mountains and fjords of Northern Norway, near Narvik. Norwegian owner, Bjorn, found his beautiful '67 in 2004. With Continue Reading →
  • Going topless in Sweden - Thomas Trank is one of our Facebook fans from Landvetter Sweden, just outside of Gothenburg.  He contacted us recently and I asked him to tell us more about his Global Bird - a 1968 Solar Red 400 convertible, with lots of modifications. "Hey Ken, the car came to Sweden originally Continue Reading →
  • Buried Treasure? -   I'll start by saying this - I'm looking for the owner of a 1968/1969 firebird! My name is Teri Reed, and most people know me as Ladytata in the Pontiac world. I part '70-81 Firebirds and love it with a passion. I would love to find the owner of Continue Reading →
  • Midwest Firebirds Club Highlights of 2017 -   2017 may just have been the best year so far for our young club. As we look back on our fourth full year, our thoughts turn to all the wonderful friends we have made, and all the great times we have had with our classic cars.  This year was Continue Reading →
  • North Carolina Beauty -   We first met North Carolina member, Ron Vaseleski at the Indian Uprising in St. Charles Illinois in 2015, with his other first gen Firebird, a nicely done, 1969 4-speed, Trans Am tribute.   Some things do get better with age....    “You should get an old car now so Continue Reading →
  • Firebird Day at the Museum – 2017 - What a fun and fantastic time we had in Pontiac Illinois again this year, as we celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the Firebird, at the 3rd Annual All Firebird and Trans Am Day at the Museum!   This event is co-sponsored by Midwest Firebirds and the Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum.  All Continue Reading →
  • Cars and Coffee Locations and Times - What a great way to get together to see and talk about some great Pontiacs before your busy day gets going! From May through October, we will be having a short, Cars and Coffee get together with the Cruisin' Tigers Pontiac club at two different Starbucks locations around Chicago-land simultaneously! Continue Reading →
  • The Road Trip of a Lifetime (part four – the trip back home) -  We've been following members Dave and Mary Jo Sullivan on their epic road trip on hstoric Route 66 from northern Illinois all the way to the end of the road in Santa Monica California.  They took the whole trip in their vintage 1967 Pontiac Firebird convertible.  Having accomplished their goal Continue Reading →
  • Route 66 – Tour of a Lifetime (part three) - This post is part three of our story, following Dave and Mary Jo Sullivan on their trip of a lifetime in their '67 Firebird, as they drive from Illinois to California on historic Route 66.  Driving last fall in October, part two ended with them in 99 degree temps in Continue Reading →
  • Route 66 Cruise – The Trip of a Lifetime (part two) - This is the second part of a story about our once in a lifetime trip down historic Route 66. The first part of the story ended after we arrived in Arcadia Oklahoma to tour the famous landmark Round Barn. As we headed West to Texas our last stop in Oklahoma Continue Reading →
  • 2017 All Firebird and Trans Am Day - Come on out and enjoy a wonderful time with us for our 3rd annual All Firebird and Trans Am Day at the Museum in Pontiac Illinois on May 21st.  This event is open to Firebirds and Trans Ams of all years, as we line the streets of downtown Pontiac with Continue Reading →
  • 1967 Firebird 400 HO – The Rebirth of a Golden Bird - I asked club member, Larry Delay to give us the story behind his beautiful ’67 400 Firebird.  Many of you may know Larry has worked with various Pontiac magazines.  But for those of you who do not, this will give you an idea of what he means to the Pontiac Continue Reading →
  • Firebirds in New Zealand - As we experience one last blast of winter snow in the Midwestern United States this week, our Firebird friends in New Zealand are enjoying fun in the sun and summer-like tempratures.  Christine Miles is the president of the American Muscle Car club in Auckland New Zealand, and she is also Continue Reading →
  • Route 66: Illinois to California – The Road Trip of a Lifetime! (part one) - My name is Dave Sullivan, and this story is about the trip of a lifetime I took with my dear wife Mary Jo, traveling Route 66, from Pontiac Illinois to Santa Monica California last October in our 1967 Firebird convertible.  First let me tell you a little about myself and Continue Reading →
  • An American in Paris - .... American Firebird that is, and actually not just one but several.  Here's a fun story, with a rock n roll vibe, about William Ribiere, and his American Muscle Car shop “Pro-V8” in Vouille-les-Marais, France, just a few hours south of Paris. We first learned about William, after he sent Continue Reading →
  • Book Review – “Pontiac Firebird 50 Years” by David Newhardt - Just in time for the 50th anniversary of the Firebird is a new book by David Newhardt and Motorbooks/Quarto Publishing. It is entitled simply: “Pontiac Firebird 50 Years”. It takes its readers on the historic adventure of the Firebird’s roots from John DeLorean’s dream of a world class European style Continue Reading →
  • Say what, a Firebird on Display at the National Corvette Museum? - So how on earth does a first gen Firebird end up being on display in the National Corvette Museum, in Bowling Green Kentucky?  Midwest Firebird’s member, Brad Adams shared his story, and we were just dying to find out! “I was at the Goodguys show in Nashville last May, when Continue Reading →
  • This Bird Really Gets Around - Hank Kollross and his wife Mary, have been a big part of our club since our first full season in 2014. And living in Green Bay Wisconsin, 200 miles from our headquarters, hasn’t stopped them from taking the trip down to join us on several of our club events. From Continue Reading →
  • Firebird Royalty - Our latest Featured Member’s Ride is a beautiful example of what you can do with a Firebird restoration.   Member Rob Rourke, from Lake Forest Illinois wrote to us about his award-winning 1967 Tyrol Blue Firebird coupe, he’s owned since he was 13!  Here’s his story and some great pictures of Continue Reading →
  • Trans Am Nationals – 2016 -   Club member, Ron Vaseleski displayed his 1968 Agena Blue Firebird coupe at the 32nd Annual Trans Am Nationals; near Dayton Ohio, and gave us his perspective of the show. “Last year they had 367 registered cars and it looked like about the same number for this year. All generations Continue Reading →
  • Tangerine Dream - Paul Gundberg’s custom-color, 1968 400 coupe is an outstanding example of building a high-powered Pontiac with modern handling and comfort.  Paul has been one of the most active members of our club from very early in our beginnings. He is always willing and ready to drive this beautiful show-bird to Continue Reading →
  • Ames Performance Pontiac Nationals – Norwalk, Ohio - Another great year at the Ames Performance Pontiac Nationals 2016. This was the 25th Anniversary of the show and for Pontiac fans the premiere show to see. Each year thousands of Pontiac gearheads and all around enthusiasts come to Norwalk Ohio's Summit Motorsports Park for 3 days of fuel power Continue Reading →
  • Automotive Artist and Pontiac Owner - What happens when you combine a lifetime Pontiac owner, auto body man and artist? In the case of Pete Teumer, you get stunning detail and creativity in accurately rendered muscle car illustrations. We first became acquainted with Pete as someone who frequently “liked” our Facebook posts. Once I saw the Continue Reading →
  • Cars and Coffee - I've heard for years that car clubs throughout the country have had a great time getting together in the morning with their vintage vehicles over a cup of hot Joe - they call it Cars and Coffee.  Our club had our first one yesterday, which I think was a huge Continue Reading →
  • Firebird Sisters -   We received a message on our Facebook page one day that I knew would be a fantastic story to share with you on our website.  Father-Son projects are quite common; passing down our love for old muscle cars to our boys seems quite natural.   But how common is a Continue Reading →
  • Kansas City Pontiacs - Our friend, Tim Dye, curator of the Pontiac Oakland Automobile Museum sent us some great looking pictures of Pontiacs and Firebirds from a recent POCI event near Kansas City.  Here’s what he had to say….   We attended the 7th Annual Pontiac Tribute Day in Olathe, Kansas near Kansas City Continue Reading →
  • Firebirds Fly into Pontiac, IL - A large gathering of Firebirds recently descended on the small town of Pontiac, IL on May 22nd, 2016.  They landed at the Pontiac-Oakland Museum, and their purpose was to hold one of the largest gathering of Firebirds ever held in the Chicagoland area. The Midwest Firebird Club, in conjunction with the Continue Reading →
  • Firebird Day at The Museum 2016 - Please plan on attending  our Firebird and Trans Am day at the Pontiac Oakland Automobile Museum in Pontiac Illinois on May 22nd.  This event is for all generations (1967-2002) of Firebirds and Trans Ams and open to the public -  so even if you don't own one of these beautiful Continue Reading →
  • Firebird Performance Transformation & 400 Engine Swap -   This post should be of great interest to a number of Firebird owners, because we all want to get the best performance and handling out of our vintage vehicles, and with many more 326CI and 350CI Firebirds produced, many owners take the route of converting to a 400 power Continue Reading →
  • Jamie’s New Toy – A 1969 Carousel Red Convertible! - We wanted to share some photos from our newest member, Jamie and his new purchase late last Fall.  This new toy will be a lot of fun when the weather warms up soon.  It is a beautifully detailed restoration of a 1969 Carousel Red 350 Convertible.  The top and interior Continue Reading →
  • Southern Comfort in a ’68 Silver 400 HO! - Here’s the story of one of our newest members, Mark Gerard from Wisconsin, who purchased this beautiful Palladium Silver ’68 400 HO coupe in the South last month. As you read this, you may not realize there were only 1,415 Firebirds built in 1968 with the WQ Code 400 HO Continue Reading →
  • Global ‘Birds Australia – Scott Winning -   I love our Face Book site because we have Firebird fans from all over the world that we interact with everyday.  Occasionally, one of them contacts us with pictures and stories of their vintage Pontiacs, which we love posting for our readers.  We call this section of our site Continue Reading →
  • The Family Jewel - We met Kyle Van Sickle at the 2015 Indian Uprising show this past August, and immediately fell in love with his 1967 Mayfair Maize Sprint convertible Firebird.  But when he told us the story, we were truly inspired by the family history of this beautiful bird.  Kyle also joined our Continue Reading →
  • The Magnificent Five – Plus 1. - Mike Noun wrote a wonderful article about how the 1969 Trans Am was born.  It was published in the current issue of POCI's Smoke Signals magazine, and includesseveral facts and information never before published.  We were able to get the editor's permission to copy the article and bring it to Continue Reading →
  • Cruisin’ The Coast – A 1,700 Mile Adventure - Our Dallas club member, Todd Bradford contacted me about a wonderful 4-day cruise he went on  few weeks ago, called Cruisin the Coast.  Here’s his story, and some great Pontiac pictures of the event. I’ve got to tell you guys what me and Dallas Area Pontiac Association club member Tom Continue Reading →
  • Third Annual Fall Colors Cruise - They say the third times' a charm, and the third annual Fall Colors Cruise this past Sunday was charming indeed.  This year we had our biggest turn out yet, with 12 first gen Firebirds cruising to our destination in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.  Almost as many drove in from Wisconsin as Continue Reading →
  • 1969 Carousel Red Firebird Convertible – Mike Kessler - Mike Kessler is not only one of the original charter members of our club, he is our Treasurer, voice of reason and compliance, father of our club Mascot, Suzy, and most importantly, he has attended almost every event we have done with his 1969 Carousel Red Firebird convertible. I can't Continue Reading →
  • 2015 Trans Am Nationals – by Mike Noun - We are very excited to have one of our club Technical Directors write a story based on his own perspective of this year's Trans Am Nationals in Dayton, Ohio.  Mike Noun is a noted Pontiac Historian, author, and owns a company called Muscle Car Films.  Dedicated to the hobby, he Continue Reading →
  • Indian Uprising 2015 – The ’69 Firebirds - We're going to focus exclusively on the 1969 Firebirds at the show in our final post covering the 2015 Crusin' Tigers Indian Uprising All Pontiac Weekend.There were several great examples of this iconic, one-year only model.  We'll start with one of the Best of Show winners from last year, look Continue Reading →
  • 2105 Indian Uprising Part 2 – The ’67 and ’68 Firebirds - In this second part of our coverage at the Indian Uprising, we'll take a look at all the incredible 1967 and 1968 Firebirds we spotted at the show.  Unfortunately, with the threat of rain, several members kept their show cars at home.  However, it didn't dampen the spirit of the Continue Reading →
  • Indian Uprising 2015 – An Overview - We experienced a fantastic event once again at the Cruisin Tigers’ Indian Uprising All Pontiac Weekend in St. Charles Illinois, this past weekend.  Despite a threat of rain on Sunday, there were still plenty of great Pontiacs and first gen Firebirds to be seen. Last year the Firebird was the Continue Reading →
  • A Very Special Judge! - On Sat. June 27 one of my GTO buddies and I made the trip to Pontiac, Illinois to participate in the "Unveiling" of Tim and Penny Dye's 1970 GTO Judge. Tim, the curator of the outstanding Pontiac Oakland Automobile Museum in Pontiac, and one of the most sought-after speakers on Continue Reading →
  • Karen’s Winter Renovation – 1967 Firebird Hardtop - We first met Karen and her husband, Dave at the Indian Uprising last August.  They had just bought this car for Karen only two weeks prior, and she was very excited to show it off.  She joined our club that day and was our first female member! I just received Continue Reading →
  • Hot Rod Power Tour 2015 – Heidts Performance Shop - Several of our club members were at the Heidts Performance Shop in Lake Zurich Illinois this morning, to catch a glimpse of some of the custom and classic cars on the Hot Rod Power Tour. Last year, they had over 1,500 cars, but there seemed to be slightly less today Continue Reading →
  • Congratulations Mike & Peggy Ludy! - Mike Ludy is one of the charter members of the Midwest Firebirds and served as one of our board members from the very inception of our club. We congratulate him and his wife Peggy, as they retire in sunny Florida. Mike has been a huge part of our club, serving Continue Reading →
  • 2015 Tri Power Open House - It was a perfect sunny day to open the 2015 cruising and show season with the Tri Power Open House in Libertyville, Illinois.  Tri Power is a restoration and performance shop that specializes in Pontiacs, and there were plenty for this capacity crowd to see today.  This is one show Continue Reading →
  • American Firebird in Sweden! - Sweden: Well preserved, highly optioned '68 400 Firebird Coupe owned by Janne Saukko.  This Firebird would be a rare find here in the United States, but that fact that such a prestine, highly optioned Firebird 400 is in Sweden is simply amazing!  Here's Janne's story told in his own words. Continue Reading →
  • Barn Find Trans Am - Finding a rare, high performance, low-mileage muscle car in a barn-find condition is likely the dream of every old-car enthusiast.  But, when that car is a 1969 Trans Am, with only 31,000 original miles, Pontiac fans would call it a dream come true! Richard of Wisconsin did just that.  “I Continue Reading →
  • Official Event Flyer! – Firebird & Trans Am Day at the Museum - Here is the Event Flyer hot off the press today!  The picture is from a Pontiac Motor Division European advertisement for the 1969 Firebird!  Mark your calendars, this should be a fantastic event.   (Click below for a better quality PDF version of the flyer:) 2015 Firebird Day at the Continue Reading →
  • Member Spotlight – Chris Shawver Little Rock Arkansas - Midwest Firebird's member, Chris Shawver and girlfriend Karen Duncan told us about his 1969 bright Yellow 455 restomod coupe and shared their experience on the Hot Rod power Tour and what it was like to be featured in both Hot Rod Magazine and the Hot Rod web blog written by Continue Reading →
  • Mecum Kissimmee 2015 – First Generation Firebirds - Last week it seemed half the collector car world was glued to the Barrett-Jackson auction in Phoenix Arizona, while the other half was watching the Mecum auction in Kissimmee Florida at the opposite end of the country.  We were thankful to have members at both shows reporting back to us Continue Reading →
  • Firebird & Trans Am Day at the Museum – May 17 2015 - The Midwest Firebirds club and the Pontiac Oakland Automobile Museum will be hosting a special event this summer.  It will be very unique for us because we are inviting all Generations of Firebirds and Trans Ams in any condition, to come out and join the party!  This will be held Continue Reading →
  • Global Birds – Germany’s Heinz Rosch - It's so exciting to see our first gen Firebirds at a local show because we know how rare they are, but when you hear about a first gen Firebird in a foreign country, you really stand up and take notice because you understand just how rare that occurance is.  Last Continue Reading →
  • 2014 Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals – Overview -   The Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, held in Rosemont Illinois is one of the premier events of the year for the finest collector muscle cars ever produced - and surprisingly it’s only in its 6th year!  Muscle Car Review calls this show “The Pebble Beach of Muscle Cars”  for Continue Reading →
  • Muscle Car Nationals – 2014 FGF Preview - This weekend, our club will be attending the 2014 Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals in Rosemont Illinois. Here are just a few of the high-quality first generation Firebirds that we know are going to be there that you won't want to miss. Curt Richards will be unveiling the Scott Tiemann's Continue Reading →
  • Second Annual Fall Colors Cruise - This past Sunday, 16 club members and 10 of our first gen Firebirds drove up to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin for our second annual Fall Colors Cruise.  The weather was crisp and dry and the fall foliage couldn't have been better!  This was a wonderful way to wrap up our 2014 Continue Reading →
  • Southern Nationals Addison Texas - The Dallas Area Pontiac Association (DAPA for short) boasts over 100 members, and is most likely the largest independent Pontiac club in the country.  On the last weekend in September they put on what has got to be the neatest venue for a Pontiac show anywhere in the country,  at Continue Reading →
  • Our Country Cruise Part 2 - This is the second installment on our cruise in the country a few weeks ago.  Ten first generation Firebirds came out to meander along beautiful uncluttered roads in scenic McHenry County, Illinois, stopping at various points of interest.  After gathering the group in Huntley, we drove to Getz Hot Rod Continue Reading →
  • September Cruise in the Country - Although summer temps had been hot in previous weeks, this day started out with a chilly 55 degrees, and partly cloudy skies.  Ten members total, along with their ten first-generation Firebirds participated in the September Cruise in the Country.  Our members traveled from around the Chicago area and rendezvoused in Huntley Continue Reading →
  • 2014 TA Nationals – Part Two - The Trans Am Nationals show is put on by the Dayton Chapter of the Trans Am Car Club of America.  This event is so large that the Indianapolis Chapter joins in on the support of the show.  It is open to Firebirds and Trans Ams from 1967 to 2002. Midwest Continue Reading →
  • 2014 Trans Am and Firebird Nationals – Dayton Ohio - The Annual Trans Am and Firebird Nationals near Dayton Ohio, just concluded this past weekend (August 22nd -24th).  We were fortunate to have a few of our members there as well as our friend, Tim Dye actually speaking at the event.  Mike Noun our Technical Director was there taking pictures Continue Reading →
  • 1969 Firebirds and Trans Ams at the 2014 Indian Uprising - In this last installment of first generation Firebirds at the 2014 Indian Uprising at St. Charles, we are highlighting the last year of the FGF - 1969.  That was the year when Pontiac decided to drastically change the interior and exterior of the car, which at the time was not Continue Reading →
  • 1968 Firebirds at the 2014 Indian Uprising - The Firebird and Trans Am were the featured car for this year's Indian Uprising, and the Midwest Firebirds were the featured club of the event!  This gave our club members and other first generation Firebirds preferred parking that allowed most of us to be together.  Today's post features thirteen 1968 Continue Reading →
  • 1967 Firebirds at the Indian Uprising Show - There were so many first generation Firebirds at this show (we counted 40 over the two days) that we are dedicating an entire post to each of the three years.  In today's post, you will find almost a dozen 1967 Firebirds - incuding Ian King's Burgandy 400 4-speed that took Continue Reading →
  • 2014 Indian Uprising – Show Recap - August 10th, 2014 was most likely the largest gathering of the year of first generation restored and show Firebirds in one place at one time.  We had 24 on Saturday and 37 on Sunday.  And for the most part we were all together.  WOW. Thanks to The Crusin Tigers for Continue Reading →
  • Ames Norwalk Show FGF’s - A lucky few of our members were in Norwalk Ohio this past weekend for the Ames National Pontiac Show.  Ayham Rimawi wrote, Ames Norwalk show is a great experience for Pontiac lovers. This was my second year and I love it. I take my family and they enjoy looking at Continue Reading →
  • 24th Annual Indian Uprising heating up! - The first generation Firebird attendance for this show is going to be unbelievable!  We now have 22 confirmed FGF's coming including some very rare cars, like rare Trans Ams, Ram Air cars and 400 HO cars. If you like Firebirds this is a can't miss event!!!   The material on Continue Reading →
  • Lake Delavan Car Show – More Cool Cars! - After spending most of the morning at the Lake Delavan show a few weeks ago getting settled in and talking with our Midwest Firebirds members, we ventured out into the show field to see some of the other great cars that were on display.  The organizers said they had 800 Continue Reading →
  • Indian Uprising Custom Trophies -     Check out our Custom Designed trophies we are awarding to the best 1967, 1968 and 1969 Firebird at the Indian Uprising All Pontiac Show in St. Charles Illinois on August 10.  Hope to see you there!      
  • The Cars Time Forgot Show – Lake Delavan Wisconsin -   Lake Lawn Lodge and the Delavan Area Chamber of Commerce put on one of the largest and best car show that I have ever been to.  The resort atmosphere and weather could not have been better.  Where else could you see 800 plus vintage automobiles, a beautiful lake, shaded Continue Reading →
  • POCI Wichita – The first generation Firebirds - As promised, part two of our story on the POCI national convention in Wichita, Kansas will focus on the first generation Firebirds that were on display.  Unfortunately,  there were only a handful to be found, but what was lacking in quantity, was more than made up for in quality!  There Continue Reading →
  • 2014 POCI Convention – Wichita Kansas (Part 1) - If you love Pontiac’s, Wichita was the place to be the third week of June, as the Pontiac Oakland Club International (POCI) had its 42nd annual convention.  We were fortunate to have 3 of our Midwest Firebirds members there to take pictures and comment on the event.  Another one of our Continue Reading →
  • Route 66 Trip & Pontiac Museum (part 2) - It was by far the best day trip our newly formed club has ever experienced together.  Our last post brought you the first part of our Spring Cruise down Route 66 in Northern Illinois.  Today focuses on our destination in Pontiac.  We want to start by saying a big "Thank Continue Reading →
  • Historic Route 66 Spring Cruise (part 1 of 2) - On May 18th, the Midwest Firebirds car club took an all-day cruise down historic Route 66 in northern Illinois.  Our destination was the Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum, in Pontiac.  Along the way, we scheduled stops with historic Route 66 landmarks for photo opportunities with our Firebirds.  This is the first of Continue Reading →
  • Our Favorite Cruise Night Locations -  Where Midwest Firebirds first started - Rolling Meadows, September of 2013. With the Summer cruise night season starting up this Memorial Day weekend, we wanted to post a list of some of our favorite places to hang out with our cars, and meet other Classic Car enthusiasts.  You may find one Continue Reading →
  • FGF’s at Mecum – Indianapolis this week!!! - If you love first generation Firebirds, then you would be in FGF heaven at Mecum's Indianapolis auction this week.  We counted seven beautiful and highly restored or very rare birds worth taking a look at.  If you were there, please send us an e-mail at Info@MidwestFirebirds.org and give us a Continue Reading →
  • Tri-Power’s Open House & Full Size Pontiac Show -                 The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Midwest Firebirds, 2014 ©
  • RM Restorations & Hill Performance Shop Tours - Notice the custom roller rocker arms and custom built headers on this "money is no object" Ram Air V engine.  It will be the power plant for the 1969 convertible.   Our next stop was just down the road to Hill Performance, an engine building and custom speed shop.   Continue Reading →
  • 1968 Firebird 400HO 1968 Firebird 400 H.O. - Harold Buckner has worked hard to restore his 1968 Pontiac Firebird 400 HO and the final product is nothing less than stunning. His Aegena Blue drop top 'bird has the four-speed transmission. He's even created a website designated to help keep track of the 400 H.O. cars. He passed along Continue Reading →
  • Firebird Final Four: Part 2 - Last week we highlighted the first two of Mark's four first-generation Firebirds.  In this second part of this feature we are going to take a closer look at Mark's two award-winning Firebirds; the Cameo White 1968 400 convertible and the 1967 Metal-Flake Black 326 coupe. Let’s start with what might be Continue Reading →
  • This 1969 Pontiac Firebird cruises the backroads in France. 1969 Pontiac Firebird OHC Sprint - FRANCE: Bonjour amateurs Firebird (Hello Firebird enthusiasts)!! The roads around the City of Light are a bit brighter thanks to one enthusiast who shines brightly with his drop-top 1969 Pontiac Firebird OHC Sprint. Manuel G. lives just outside of Paris, France and purchased his vintage ride in 2001. He bought Continue Reading →
  • Michigan’s Firebird Final Four - Part 1 in a 2 part series - by Ken Pitcher As the nation focuses on the NCAA basketball tournament this week, we have a Firebird Final Four for our first gen fans to enjoy.  Admittedly, today it is unusual to own even one first generation Firebird, and we’re all Continue Reading →
  • 1969 Pontiac Firebird Convertible 1969 Pontiac Firebird Convertible - It's no secret that bringing a vintage Firebird back to life takes time. Alot of time. In member Lee E's case, he logged close to what he estimates as 10,000 hours getting his 1969 convertible show and roadworthy. The car was originally sold in New York. Lee purchased it in Continue Reading →
  • 1969 Pontiac GTO Judge - When he’s not cruising with the club in his 1969 Trans Am, member Scott S. is busy with his other Pontiacs.  Today, his 1969 Carousel Red GTO Judge took first place, Best of Class at the Antique Automobile Club of America sanctioned car show in Vero Beach Florida.  This car Continue Reading →
  • 1968 Pontiac Firebird OHC 6-Cylinder - You never quite know when unexpected surprises will come your way. Mike Plewa was certainly caught off guard when he wandered onto a Missouri car dealer's back lot in 1999 and came across a 1968 Pontiac Firebird. The vehicle was tucked in the way back. "It still had the license Continue Reading →
  • 1969 Pontiac Firebird 400 - Midwest Firebird club member, Dave A., worked long and hard on his 1969 Firebird 400 convertible to get it into the shape it is today. He found his drop top in the backyard of a Toledo, OH residence in 1980. The Pontiac had sat outside for seven years and was Continue Reading →
  • 1967 Firebird at 2014 Detroit Autorama - The 2014 Detroit Autorama just wrapped up last weekend and sure enough one of our members had their first-gen. Firebird on display. Mark E. brought his shimmery 1967 coupe which features a red and black metal-flake paint job. It's equipped with painted wheels and emblems, an automatic transmission and an Continue Reading →
  • This orange 1967 Pontiac Firebird coupe was on display at the 2014 World of Wheels car show. 1967 Firebird Coupe - Tucked way back in the Donald E. Stevens convention center was this orange 1967 Firebird coupe. It was part of a trio of 1967 Firebirds on display at the 2014 World of Wheels car show. Alex Aceveoo owns this auburn Pontiac and it appears he’s taken some liberties in customizing Continue Reading →
  • 1969 Pontiac Firebird 400 - MWF member David A. knows his way around a first-generation Firebird. This flawless 1969 coupe was restored by the Pontiac enthusiast and it looks like it drove straight off the showroom floor. The muscle machine is finished in Midnight Green paint and has a four-speed transmission and air-conditioning. It turns Continue Reading →
  • This black 1967 Pontiac Firebird coupe was on display at the 2014 World of Wheels Chicago car show. 1967 Firebird Coupe - We certainly spent a lot of time with ‘Essence’, the jaw-dropping 1967 Firebird custom, on display at the 2014 World of Wheels show. But that wasn’t the only first-generation Firebird we found. This coal black 1967 coupe was also parked on the show floor. Nick Ispas, from Overland, IL is Continue Reading →
  • This custom 1967 Pontiac Firebird was displayed at the 2014 Chicago World of Wheels car show. 1967 Firebird Coupe ‘Essence’: VIDEO - There was no way we could take in all the intricacies and finer points on the spectacular 1967 Firebird coupe 'Essence' with just one look. We needed (and wanted) to pour over the '67; to drink deeply and take of all it's root-beer-colored goodness in. Even though we've already posted Continue Reading →
  • This custom 1967 Pontiac Firebird was displayed at the 2014 Chicago World of Wheels car show. 1967 Firebird Coupe ‘Essence’: PHOTO GALLERY - We at the MWF club see and encounter all kinds of first-gen. Firebirds. But it's on rare occasion that we ever come across a true showstopper likes this one-of-a-kind 1967 coupe. It was on display at the 2014 Chicago World of Wheels car show, held at the Donald E. Stevens Continue Reading →
  • This 1967 Pontiac Firebird was purchased and shipped to Sydney, Australia. GLOBAL ‘BIRDS: Sydney, Australia - AUSTRALIA: It wasn’t long after the MWF club was formed in 2013 that we started locating first-gen. owners in other parts of the world. We’ve already networked with owners across the Atlantic and today we’re excited to turn our view west and bring you a look at a car from Continue Reading →
  • Vintage Pontiac Firebird Keychain - Keys are pretty important to any first-gen. Firebird owner. Those seemingly simple pieces of cut metal allow us to fire up our 'bird's ignition and get to driving. When we're not blasting down the highway, we love showing off our Firebird pride. Our friends at the Pontiac Oakland museum passed Continue Reading →
  • 1969 Firebird Trans Am, Muscle Car City - It's little secret that MWF club members travel the nation, and sometimes the globe, and are always keeping a keen eye out for first-generation Firebirds. One of our members, George K., came across one recently while in Punta Gorda, FL. What he found wasn't just any run of the mill Continue Reading →
  • 2014 ‘Cars on 5th’ Car Show, Naples, FL - Winter continues to drag on here in the Midwest, driving many club members to seek some temporary refuge in warmer climates. George K. recently escaped to Naples, FL for some much needed time of fun in the sun. While in the Sunshine State, he attended the 'Cars on 5th' car Continue Reading →
  • Vintage Pontiac dealership glass tumblers. Pontiac Glass Tumblers - In addition to the full-size cars, we love seeing all kinds of Firebird and Pontiac memorabilia. One our members passed along photos of these ultra-slick glass tumblers. A buddy of his had acquired them from his grandfather. We're told they were promo items from Ray's Pontiac Service, a dealer in Continue Reading →
  • Joey C. Firebird Finding Original Numbers & Date Codes - As passionate first-gen. Firebird owners and enthusiasts, we don't just love driving our cars (although that is a huge part!), we also enjoy knowing what makes them tick, their individual nuances and how to find more information about them. Joey C. is a club member who knows a thing or Continue Reading →
  • Owning & Driving a Sprint 6 – Part 3 - SPRINT 6:  The inline OHC six-cylinder, Sprint engine was unusual. So much so, to give it adequate attention we broke our feature of it into three parts. Click on the link for Part 1 and Part 2. 1967 Convertible - California Some owners have taken the high performance route with Continue Reading →
  • A member's 1969 convertible undergoing a complete restoration. RESTORATION: 1969 Firebird Convertible - The MWF club has members in it with Firebirds in all various conditions - from stock, to custom to completely torn apart. One particular member's 1969 convertible falls into that latter category. He's doing a complete frame-off restoration in his home garage and the level of craftsmanship is more than Continue Reading →
  • A Sprint 6 Pontiac Firebird. Owning & Driving a Sprint 6 – Part 2 - SPRINT 6: In the first Sprint article, Mike Noun went into great detail about the Sprint and how John Delorean wanted to create a car that could compete with the best sports cars Europe could offer.  In this segment, We were able to talk to the owners of six of these Continue Reading →
  • A Spring 6 engine in a Pontiac Firebird. The Sprint 6: The Little Engine that Could – Part 1 - Back in the 1960's, a Pontiac showroom was the place to visit if you wanted a ground pounding, mega-cubic inch performance car. The success of the 1964 GTO launched the Muscle Car Era, and sales of GTO's had nearly tripled between 1964 (32,450) and 1966 (96,946). All GTO's were equipped Continue Reading →
  • 1969 Pontiac Trans Am Firebird Year One 1969 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am – YearOne #31 - Our club members are always keeping their eyes out for cool FGFs and member Mark B. spotted one. He sent us this picture of a 1969 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am which looks to be built by YearOne. That's all we know about this great-looking 'bird but we're dying to know Continue Reading →
  • Global ‘Birds: Lucca, Italy - ITALY: The Firebird love isn't limited to just the US - it reaches across the globe. Mark B. experienced this firsthand recently while visiting Lucca, Italy with his family. "Lucca is a walled in city with five access points,' said Mark B. "The wall is about four stories tall and Continue Reading →
  • RESTORATION: 1969 Dashboard Repair Part 2 - Winter makes a fine time to make some repairs on our beloved Firebirds and MWF member Matt S. has been busy. The last time we checked in with him, he had rolled up his sleeves and dove into taking the dashboard completely out of his 1969 convertible. The biggest addition Continue Reading →
  • Message from the President: Ken Pitcher - Ken Pitcher is fanatical about first-generation Pontiac Firebirds (1967, 1968, 1969). He was the man behind launching the Midwest Firebirds, a car club dedicated to preserving and honoring the heritage and history of the special Pontiac musclecar. Ken has two Firebirds of his own parked in his garage and loves Continue Reading →
  • 1969 Pontiac Firebird Ram Air IV - There was a ton on display at the 2013 Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals. It's hard to pick favorites but truth be told, we were most excited to check out a 1969 Pontiac Firebird Ram Air IV. We spent lots of time talking with it's owner and restorer to get Continue Reading →
  • 1969 Pontiac Trans Am - It's readily apparent Matt Avery, of Classic Recollections, works hard to dig up rare and unusual vehicles, bringing to light the stories behind them. It's little wonder he zeroed in on MWF member Scott and his all-original 1969 Trans Am. We don't want to give it all away but we Continue Reading →
  • This dashboard is from a 1969 Firebird. RESTORATION: 1969 Dashboard Repair - Member Matt S. can be usually found behind the wheel of his silver 1969 Firebird convertible. We first spied him and his ride when he brought it on the 2013 Fall Colors Cruise. With the subzero winter months settling in, he's the taking advantage of the driving downtime to make Continue Reading →
  • 2014 Mecum Auction, Kissimmee, FL - Midwest Firebird’s member, Scott had the enviable opportunity to be at the Mecum Muscle Car Auction in Kissimmee Florida yesterday. While everyone here in the Midwest was trudging through the snow and enduring the bitter, single-digit temperatures, Scott was enjoying the Florida sunshine while basking in the glow of vintage Continue Reading →
  • EVENT: Dad’s Slot Cars - Our January 2014 club event was held at Dad’s Slot Cars in Des Plaines, IL. Despite the rainy and icy conditions outside, everyone had a great time inside.  Ten of our members from around the Chicago suburbs, joined by spouses and kids, came out to enjoy the fast paced racing Continue Reading →
  • MEMBERS RIDE: 1968 400 HO - When Midwest Firebirds member Jim looked to purchase his first car, he knew he wanted either a Firebird or Camaro.  What he didn't think about then was that almost 45 years later he would still be the proud owner of that first car he found.  In spring 1969, Jim's Dad first Continue Reading →
  • Member’s Ride: 1968 Pontiac Ram Air Firebird - Many of the club members have special Firebirds and one that stands out is this Verdoro Green 1968 Ram Air coupe. Pontiac Enthusiast magazine met up with owner Chet and nabbed the full story for their September 2010 edition. Check it out below. The material on this site may not Continue Reading →
  • 2013 MCACN: 1969 Pontiac Firebird Ram Air IV Convertible - While there were many stunning and show-stopping classic musclecars parked at the 2013 Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, one in particular caught our eye. This 1969 Pontiac Firebird Ram Air IV convertible was unveiled for the first time after undergoing a thorough restoration. We have lots more on this rare Continue Reading →
  • 2013 Fall Colors Cruise: Recap Video - By now, you've probably seen the photo galleries from the club's 2013 Fall Colors Cruise but today we're pleased to be bringing you the full recap video. If you've been wanting to see the all-original 1969 Trans Am on the road, hear each Firebird start-up and idle or check out Continue Reading →
  • Two Firebird members went for a Novmeber cruise. CRUISING: Winter Cruising - Two members took advantage of the warm November weather to get their first-generation birds out for some cruising. Owners of a 1969 Windward Blue coupe and a 1967 Regimental Red convertible met up and grabbed a bite to eat. They passed along some pictures to share. The material on this Continue Reading →
  • 2013 Fall Colors Cruise: Part 3, Dog N Suds - Our third and final photo gallery from the club's 2013 Fall Colors Cruise took place at a one-of-a kind retro dining establishment on our way back from Lake Geneva. Six members made a pit-stop in Richmond, IL at the local Dog N Suds drive-in. The 50-year drive-in was the perfect Continue Reading →
  • 2013 Fall Colors Cruise: Part 2 - By far the club's biggest event this fall was the First Annual Fall Colors cruise. As a quick refresher, seven first-generation Pontiac Firebirds convened to cruise together from the Chicago suburbs to Lake Geneva, WI. A gallery of the 'birds on the road heading north has already been posted. Adding Continue Reading →
  • Member’s Ride: 1969 Firebird Coupe - Member's Ride: 1969 Firebird Coupe, Windward Blue owned by Bob (Chicago, IL) "I purchased my 1969 Firebird in July 2002 in Oklahoma city, OK. It was a one-family owned car and spent its whole life in Oklahoma, I think it was Edmond. The man who bought the car new had Continue Reading →
  • 2013 Fall Colors Cruise: Part 1 - Although winter is fast approaching in the Midwest, the MWF club managed to squeeze one last cruise in before the temps fell. Seven members total, along with their seven first-generation Firebirds participated in the first annual Fall Colors Cruise. Six members met up the northwest suburbs of Chicago and rendezvoused Continue Reading →
  • Firebird Racing: Great Lakes Dragaway, WI - One thing is clear about the members in the Midwest Firebird club; they aren't afraid to use their classic muscle rides. One member proved this recently by taking his Plum MIst 400 Firebird to Great Lakes Dragaway, in Union Grove, WI for some racing before winter sets in. The best Continue Reading →
  • First generation Firebirds parked at the 2013 Rolling Meadows cruise night in Rolling Meadows, IL. Rolling Meadows, IL Cruise Night - It's hard to believe it's already been over a month since the initial call went out to launch the Midwest First Generation Firebird Club. To kick things off, the decision was made to rendezvous at the cruise night in Rolling Meadows, IL. On that first night, seven first-generation Firebirds showed Continue Reading →
  • Motoring at the Museum, Arl. Heights, IL - This past September the MWF club cruised to Arlington Heights, Illinois for a beautiful fall day show called 'Motoring at the Museum'. The event was held on September 22nd at the Arlington Heights Historical Museum. The show was open to all types of vehicles, including classics, muscle cars, trucks, street Continue Reading →
  • Pictures Needed! - Do you have pictures or video of your first generation Firebird at shows, events or cruise nights? We'd love to see them! Please post them to our Facebook page or send them to Kenp@midwestfirebirds.org. We may even post them to the website! The material on this site may not be Continue Reading →
  • The club has started! - The official Midwest First Generation Firebird Club website has started! Please check back frequently for club events, updates and activities. Also be sure to check out the official Facebook page and give it a 'Like'! If you have a first-generation Firebird and would like to join, you can find more Continue Reading →