Used 2002 Pontiac Firebird Consumer Reviews
Sweeeeeeeet
Always wanted it, finally got it. 2002 Conv, only V6, but still love her. Cant find a better looking car under 100000 if you ask me. Fun to drive, and with spring coming, looking forward to the top down and driving for days.
2002 Ram Air, Hurst Manual 6
This, simply put, is the best performance car in the 30-50k range. The only thing that could possibly be better than this is a 'Vette Z06. It's completely reliable, unless you think you don't have to change the oil or air up the tires. The only problem with this car is that stupid press people (i.e. Edmunds.com, Motortrend) seem to have forgotten that a car should have the goods, and not the hype. If you're ready for the real deal, a sports car that can blow the doors of any Japanese import or Ford product, then step right up. Posers may take Mustangs and Celicas.
- Base 2dr HatchbackMSRP: $9,99971 mi away
- Trans Am ConvertibleMSRP: $42,000100 mi away
- Formula 2dr HatchbackMSRP: $20,945131 mi away
I Love This Car!!
Very fun car to drive. I bought a black 2002 WS6 Trans Am with the Hurst 6 spd shifter. I thoroughly enjoy driving this car.
Perfect
Shocks perfect. No bumpy rides. Fuel engine quality exellent. Perfect V8 cylinder engine quality. Exterior design is excellent and the Reliability is unbelievable. The confort is unspeakable as well as the interior design. It is the most fun to drive vechial.
19 years and still turning heads!
Bought my 2002 Trans Am WS6 automatic in 2016 with about 50k miles on it, required some deferred maintenance issues (tires, brakes, other small items) with a clean car fax for $13000.oo CDN. It was a two long-term owner car, original paint, very clean all around both inside and out. Since then I have driven it sparingly but with vigor. For performance, it does not disappoint and still turns heads when I am out and about. Small kids sometimes freak out and can't believe how amazing it looks; many do not even know what it is, I find that quite amusing! Ok, it does have a certain "Hot-Wheels" look to it but that is a part of the appeal too, it is unlike most other cars on the road and you seldom see these anywhere. I also drive a 2005 Mustang GT (bought new) and a 2010 Challenger RT but neither of these cars attract the curious attention like my Trans Am does. In a way, it is unfortunate that these are the "last of the breed" but I like that too, they didn't make very many Trans Am WS6's the last year of production so when I do go for a spin, I know that some will appreciate that these are now somewhat rare; I seldom see any where I live (Newfoundland, Canada). I have also been watching the prices on these for some time and I am certain that these will only increase in value over time, I plan to hold mine forever. It has the unique looks, the LS1 power (easily modified if that is your thing), the awesome rumble of the exhaust, parts are still easy to come by when required and I believe you still get more smiles per mile than many other cars costing substantially more. These will be making the crossing to antique status in just a few short years, so if you really want one, the price is at the bottom of the used car cycle right now. It is getting a little harder to find clean ones for a decent price, I would avoid anything with high mileage, keep looking, they are out there. I would rate this car 8 out of ten. Yes, some of the plastics may not hold up over time (mine are fine), yes, they do exhibit rattles on bumpy roads but you really are getting good value for your money with these Pontiacs. There are many cars being made today that offer more horsepower, touch screens, extra bells and whistles but they are expensive....very expensive.....and remember, no manufacturer today offers T-tops in their lineups. Even today, you really can't go wrong with one of these financially, just ensure before you purchase that you get it checked out by a good garage/mechanic, then hit the open road. Who knows, if you take care of it, treat it with the respect it deserves, the value might actually increase over time, how can that be a bad thing eh?
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Last of the Birds!!
Im proud to have one of the last Firebirds. With just 77k mikes, I try to keep them low... its the last hatchback with Ttops. 14 years, heads still spin. Shes in mint condition, runs great! Thinking of adding a performance chip and remote start to make it quicker, but does it??
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2002 Trans Am, Ram Air, Hatchback
I knew I wanted a sports car for my next vechile. I drove a GT Mustang and then the Trans Am (with Ram Air). The Mustang just didn't compare to the Trans Am. The Trans Am is just a pleasure to drive. I use the car as my everyday car and I look forward to getting behind the wheel and driving to work (or sitting in Washington DC traffic more apporiately).
"LOTB" 2K2 WS.6 A4 by Larry
The 2002 model year is the last year for the f-bodies, therefore, I bought a 2002 Trans Am WS.6 before they become scarce. I loved the looks of Trans Ams and especially WS.6 models. This is my 4th f-body, previously owned 1988 Camaro 5SPD.[305v8], 1994 Z28-6SPD., 1995 Trans Am-6SPD., 1996 Z28-6SPD. and will say this is by far the best in looks, pure speed, handling-(275-40ZR17 wheels and tires sure help) and getting a thumbs up from other motorists. I was looking for a 6speed but got a great deal on an auto[4L60E] in arctic white that I couldn't pass up. Interior has fighter jet cockpit sensation, 500 watt monsoon audio. Got 25mpg-Greenville NC. to Erie PA. No problems as of 30k miles.
2002 TA
There is no car around that delivers anywhere near the performance per dollar as the Trans Am. Doesn't have quite the "status" symbol appeal of some other cars, but if your goal is pure performance, this car can't be beat. It's nice to pull up to a stop light next to sports cars that cost twice as much, only to see them disappearing in your rear view mirror after the light turns green.
I LOVE THIS CAR!!!!
i have travled many places with this vehicle and am very proud of its performance.
2002 Trans Am/Sunset Orange Metallic
This Is Pontiac's most exciting vehicle of all time.It has so much performance that it is a big disapointment that it will be discontinued this year.The only area that this vehicle does not excell in would be the fuel economy department.I guess that if you can afford one of these dream cars, you really dony worry about how far it will travel on a tankfull of gas.
I got a lemon!!!
I purchased my car new and have had problems since the third month of ownership. Battery was leaking acid after a few months of ownership. Continuous electrical issues; I had the engine compartment fuel box replaced, I'm always replacing fuses. Calalytic converter has been replaced after few months of ownership...is broken again. Was getting 19/29m/p/g now gets 8 m/p/g. Engine noises, nocking noises, fuel intake issues; the interior door panel split. Poor support from Pontiac/GM. I have a stack of services/repair invoices over an inch thick. It's sad because it was my dream car.
Completely Satisfied
I am really going to miss this car being on the market, maybe one day it will make a come back like the T-Bird
Puter shark
The Shark 2002 base Firebird w/ leather and power seats a lot of upgrades and a convertible fantastic to drive and look at very strong v 6 sounds great
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Can you say "loose tolerances"
Fully loaded 6spd Ram Air WS6 Dissipointed. Suspension is set up for drag racing, not road racing (salivion life). Anoying "squat" when on gas or brakes (car is LOOSE). PISTON SLAP problem at cold startup and lifter noise! At startup 5-10 (hollow scrap/knock) This is your pistons cocking sidways in the cylinder bore until the pistons expand enough to narrow the tolerance. Also, the 6spd manual is a P.O.S. It shifts harshly, binds up, and you can directly from 6th to 3rd to pass someone! It also exibits gear rattle at the bottom of 1st and 2nd
Rest in Peace?
Hopefully it will be brought back as a leaner more refined machine. GM needs to look at the sales success of the Mustang and give the consumer what they want. They want fun value packaged performance cars with styling elements from the original 1967, 1968 and 1969 cars. Think of it, a Mustang shaped car with a more upright seating position with a 5.7 V-8 engine. These cars should be about balanced fun and performance. This is something Ford has figured out. Rest in peace? I hope not.
Awesome
It handles great. even though it is only a v6 it has great power. I love these cars.
Beautiful performance
Have a '99 V6-5M which has been great and just bought a '02 V6-5M to keep for eternity since GM has lost its mind and decided to stop making them. What a bargain price for this well equipped vehicle. Big, powerful V6, smooth- shifting 5 speed, 4 wheel ABS, great sound system, wide 16" wheels and tires, and same great look as the V8 (better in my opinion than the slighty gaudy Trans Am). Highly recommend the 3800 performance package to get the dual exhaust and Torsen limited slip differential (huge improvement in the traction department).
T/A Muscle
Car is Very Exicting to Drive , torque is right there at 1,500 Rpm. Goes over very smooth over bumps and very tight in turns, what a ride. Trunk is a little tight, but with the fold down rear seat you have some space inside.
WS6 T/A
I love this car.
Don't miss out
As they have been discontinued and may be hard to find, don't miss out on the last of GM's pony cars. As nice as the next gen. GTO seems, it still lacks the Trans Am's styling big time.
Most fun in years
I don't know what car your editor was driving to give it a 5.5 rating, but it must not be the same car I have. I have a Firebird Trans Am with the WS6 option and it is by far the best performance car I have ever driven for this price range. I have had no problems with the car so far, and being that I'm a 60 year old performance enthusiast, it will probably be the last car I will ever buy. I say that because GM saw fit to discontinue a car, that if properly marketed could have been a big seller. I can't afford a 'Vette and I see no performance cars the calibur of the F- Bodies coming along in GM's future.
2002 WS6 6M
I just got my black 2002 ws6 with the 6 speed manual transmission and its been nothing but pure fun. The car handles very well and for the power it makes its pretty light on gas. The stereo system is very nice, not only does it have 500 watts of power, but the sound is very clear and with no static. Turn off the traction control, slam on the gas, now your havin fun!
Collectors Edition TransAm
I bought my Pontiac Collectors Edition TransAm in April 2002. This car is a real head-turner. The performance, and comfort is good. The aerodynamic styling, yellow exterior, and black stripes is what makes it attractive. The engine sounds clean, and the car handles very good. It is reliable and always fun to drive. I have never had a problem with it.
Wish it could stay
As everyone else said I love this car. I had to buy one before they were all sold out. I was fortunate enough to get my paws on one in a different state and had it shipped to the motor city. I went with black on black on black. This car is out of hand. Every where I go people tell me how much they like it. You don't see many of these babies on the road. To all you TA owners hold on to them.
The last of the Best
Ram air T/A is the best sports car I have ever owned. Power is great, but I have some goodies in the future to put with GMs best. Then you cant touch this. I just drive it on some weekends otherwise covered in garage
Firebird's Forever
I own a 2002 Standard Firebird with the Sport Appearance Package, It is a GREAT car for summer cruising with the T-tops out. My car is Pewter Metallic and 4 speed automatic transmission. This car is perfect for a teenager who wants to be seen. I would recomend this car everyone and make sure to get one before there all gone!!
2002 Collectors Edition Trans Am
Great car.Fun to drive.Only 500 made for collectors.Great gas milage for all the power.
Firebird
This car is absolutely amazing, having test driven a comaro z28, and a mustang cobra, this car absolutely demolished the competition. This beautiful car is a must for any performance lover.
Baby Boomer Therapy
What a great machine to slip into retirement with! I traded in my GTP which was fun, but this WS6 is beyond belief for great driving - even in city traffic. Had to have the TransAm to save as a collector's item. Sorry that this is the end of the Firebird line.
Hate to See it GO
What a CAR, None like it on the road, for feel and comfort, I drive mine hard and fast. AND IT HANDLES IT. Been a Firebird owner for years and it just KEEPS GETTING BETTER, Shame it is not coming back, WAKE UP GM!!!!!
cheap muscle
Ram air last of dieing breed. Best preformance car less than 30K. Next best car starts at >$50k. Almost 1 yr old20k miles and no problems
Power, Performance, Fun and Romance
The Pontiac Firebird is fun to drive, with a muscular V-6, 16 inch wheels, and four disc anti-lock brakes. This car is meant for serious drivers only. The handling is superb, responsiveness is excellent, and the cornering is great. The car is sexy and I get compliments all the time. I opted for the optional six year/sixty-thousand mile warranty, I plan on keeping this car till death. If you're thinking about it, go for it. This car is well worth the money and insurance.
Trans Am
This is one of the best cars I've driven for the money. Love to drive it!
How dumb can GM get!
I purchased my black 3.8l 5M Camaro some months ago and still love it. Bargain performance. Great fun to shift. 205 horsepower blows away the pitiful little more expensive imports.Love the look--sleek and sexy. Seating is adequate, although sometimes difficult to see the gauges unless the wheel is positioned correctly. It's a shame that GM can't see the value in this excellent product.
Awesome Rod
This is the last year this beast will ever be made. Speed over to a dealership and get one. Don't waste your hard earned money on a Mustang. I am currently leasing a 2001 Convertible. Don't drive it anymore after purchasing the Trans. This is my second and believe me, the V8 makes all the difference.
happy new driver
Love it!!! My first v8 sports car with rear drive. Every other vehicle was 4 banger turbo of some kind.
Firehawk Convertible
No problems...you just worry about leaving it places!
Lots of Power, Less $$$
There simply is no way you can touch this level of performance for this price. The F-body twins blow the Mustang out of the water when it comes to power and handling. It's a shame that GM saw fit to kill them off.
Pontiac
My favorite car to drive, gets lots of attention
The glory that was
I have had many delightfull times with my convertable,it is part of a long line of Pontiac convertables i have owned. To me its a shame they have discontinued this line of cars. This current car has performed up to all of my expectations it is truly an american sports car.
WS6 Trans Am
Extremely powerful, fun to drive, last of the true muscle cars! Interior could be styled with less plastic, however has true cockpit feel. Turns heads at every stoplight due to aerodynamic exterior. Sorry to see this classic go out of production.
The best muscle out there ...
My car is actually a 2002 Trans Am Firehawk. I'm in my 20s and wanted a T/A all my life; lives up to all the years of dreaming. The car corners on a dime. Acceleration is smooth and quick. Great exhaust note. The interior doesn't live up to the exterior, however. Not horrible, but you'd expect more from a car that was top of the fleet for Pontiac when it was out. When Pontiac makes this car again (and they will, only a matter of time) they should improve this, along with reducing cabin noise. Trough wander is annoying at times, but that's inherent on most cars with wider wheels and tires, and only happens when driving on older, worn roads.
Last Bird
Out of the 5 Trans Ams I've owned this one is the best. Previous years, 1984, 1990,1995,1998 all bought new. I plan to keep forever as it is a 3rd car.
End of an Era
I had looked into purchasing a Trans Am in the fall of 2002. However, at the inflated prices they were asking, I couldn't fit this purchase into my budget. In February 2003, a local Pontiac dealer still had a WS6 convertible 6-speed left on the lot that they were practically giving away. Needless to say, it soon found a home in my garage. No regrets whatsoever on this purchase. Incredible car in all aspects. This car brings back fond memories of the 1969 Plymouth Roadrunner 383 4-speed I owned in my youth. Except it is faster, more comfortable, handles 100 times better, and gets 20-22 mpg. What more needs to be said?
Why stop making these things???
Recently bought a loaded 02 base coupe, just an unbelievable car. Looks, performance, and features all well worth the price... Get compliments all the time, and it's a blast to drive also.... why are they being discontinued??? This is Knight Rider's car!!!!
Trans Am goes out with a blast
We love our Trans Am. It is a blast to drive. The control and power are fabulous. It is comfortable for short or long trips with the seats giving good support. For a car with this much power the economy is very good.
The Muscle Car Lives! But not after 2002
An affordable Big Boy's Toy for those that want to be a Rebel in an era of four bangers and dull styling.
ram air fun
I really love this car! It is the most fun to drive automobile I have ever had the pleasure. I am the daughter of a car salesman and have had many cars but this is by far the best! Only problem I've had is the front headlight has had to be adjusted twice.
I love my WS6!
This is what a muscle car is supposed to look and drive like.