I Bought a 1991 Pontiac Firebird Formula for $5000 Sight Unseen! Was it Worth it?

[@tonypersin1189]

My favorite car I ever had was a brand new 1987 Pontiac Formula 350 with the TPI 350. Was the first year Pontiac came back out with the Formula 350. You could only get an automatic and you couldn’t get leather or t-tops. I was 17 when I bought it. Worked my ass off full time going to high school to get it. I paid a little over $17,000 for it lol. 225 hp back then was a lot. It was a fun car. Then they came out with the “Formula” with the 305 and you could get standard and T-tops. Enjoy. My Mom had an 85 Trans Am with the 305 and a 5 speed and it wasn’t too bad for a 305. If you ever wanna see pics of my 87 lmk. I can’t share them here. It was a beautiful blue, not the light blue, but not the deep dark (blackish looking) solid blue, was kinda in the middle and a metallic. The 87 had different wheels than what the original were on yours.

[@nightwolf9723]

Don't forget the 1989 20th Anniversary Trans Am Turbo ❤

[@bigmikeyz0071]

I still own my 92 formula 350 from high school. I bought it off the original owner in 2000 who ordered it new with every option. It’s black with the black GTA wheels and it came with the dealer installed slp perf pack which added 60hp. She just hit 50k miles and I still love driving it today just as much as my gt350 mustang.

[@tonypersin1189]

@@billnj3651 back in the 70’s yes. The Formula didn’t come back out in the 80’s till 87 and it was the 350

[@tonypersin1189]

@@bigmikeyz0071 that’s awesome. I so wished I would have kept so many of my vehicles

[@clangdon1436]

You really need to find the oe formula rims . They were as good looking as the gta's .

[@ThriftMachine]

Pop up headlights, rwd, v8, and 80s styling= it's a win all day

[@brandonnorris927]

You got an awesome deal!! There's tons of rude people in this world don't listen to them . That's a really nice car .

[@amadeo_serrano]

For the sticky driver's window, try lubing the track with silicone spray. It's not foolproof, but often works. For the sagging headliner, try 3M spray adhesive. To repair the upholstery, pull the headliner through the rear hatch. Lay it flat, upholstery side up, peel the cloth back one side at a time and scrape off any old adhesive residue. Spray an even coat of adhesive on both the backing and the underside of the cloth. Wait until it becomes tacky and carefully lay the cloth back into place, smoothing creases as you go. Then repeat for the other half.

[@MichaelSmith-wb1es]

Also check the ground on the power window motor. I had that problem on my Trans Am.

[@christopherlaflam6383]

Ive got a 92 trans am, bought new. These are a blast to drive.

[@Dustinnicholas1987]

My mom had a Formula 350 when I was a kid it brings back memories. I love the flip-head lights too. 5k is a steal for this car in this condition wow.

[@chuckbroso]

That's a good find brother. I have an '86 Trans Am with a 5 speed and its my therapy mobile. As you said, these cars take us back to better days. And a better country. What you paid for is fine for that car with decent paint and everything working.

[@chadriddle3517]

As someone who is 42 yrs old , this lineup is absolutely awesome reminds me of being a kid and wanting everyone of these cars !!! The fox and grand National are my favorites

[@williamcochell9889]

Hey Randy, are you kidding you bought sight unseen, a 1991 vehicle and everything works? I think you need to pack your bags and head for Las Vegas! And yes $5000 seems like a very good deal! As always amazed by the ever-changing variety of your smorgasbord of cars! You never know what you’re going to see on the auto auction rebuilds channel! The best automotive channel on KZbin! Your passion and enthusiasm is contagious! Kudos buddy keep it up!

[@dock9061]

My first car was a black 94 Pontiac Sunbird with the V6 that car was fun. Your fleet brings back memories of when I was a kid in the 90’s. I love the muscle cars of the 60’s and 70’s like the next guy but it’s something about the cars I grew up seeing.

[@djsonic6533]

I think you absolutely scored in this IMO. Especially in the condition it's in. I'm also loving your GM lot 😂 glad you're able to show us these beauties and show what transportation was like in their time. You're on fire Randy!!

[@raymondhernandez7079]

Hey Randy you make my day with this 80s and 90s car. Love the formula

[@jamesmcdonald3113]

These are my FAVORITE videos. Its a trip down memory lane for me, being in my 40s, I love this car and all of the other ones. $5k was a hell of a deal. Enjoy those cars man, and yea an Iroc would be amazing to see on your channel. Btw, that Chevy cavalier is still my favorite. Something about the car really takes me back. Thanks for all the great videos you put out for us.

[@theadvocate4698]

I never tought i would miss a cavalier! They were everywhere and now pooof! It's a rarity... :)

[@Theguys1212]

This car really brings me back, I had a 1986 Pontiac Trans Am with a 305 and I absolutely love that car. That was my first car I ever had that my dad got me for $1200. The only problems I had with that car was the headlights did not have an up motor but the down motor would work so you had to always pull the fuse if you were not driving otherwise you would manually have to put them up and the radiator hose popped off one time on me, other than that, I love that and I wish I never got rid of it

[@shawongarrett5506]

I’ve been waiting for this video. Pontiac Firebird/Trans Am has always been my favorite car!

[@maverickflint1991]

I love the Pontiac and I graduated in 1991!!! ❤️👍

[@dustin4866]

Brings me back to high school days I had a white 86 trans am with the same wheels. Was a fun car a lot of good times.

[@michaelm3381]

I love Firebirds! My first car in high school was a 1994 black v6 coupe. I traded it in and bought a brand new 2002 Formula Firebird that i still have. Pontiac for life!

[@trabertgraneau3323]

The Firebirds are very iconic race cars. To find cars like in mint condition is magnificent

[@scottwhite6848]

You got a steal!!!!l the previous owner cared for that car and it shows. Great job Randy.

[@davidstrock6493]

Randy, I enjoy your content. I also enjoy the 80's & 90's vehicles. I owned a '86 & '90 Mustang LX 5.0. The '86 was a 5 spd. w/od and the '90 was a 4 spd. automatic. I also owned a '97 Camaro that had the 3800 V-6 with an auto. trans.

[@FransvandenBergeMuziekschuur]

Could you do a service, headliner and maybe new rims? I bet this car would look great. Maybe you can do some DIY paint correction. White usually is very easy to restore with a pencil and some commandant.

[@locotrucker46]

OMG. please bring an IROC Z to the channel. I love 3rd gen camaros and I own 2 that I'm trying to bring back to life. That would be awesome.

[@leebryant5443]

Loving this era of cars you have . Absolutely love the Firebird! It’s like going back in time watching thease videos . I hope you and your family had a great Thanksgiving!!

[@markjones6181]

Imo 5k is not to much for the condition of that Formula nice car Randy you didint get hurt on that transaction!......as always stay up, hard, and Free!!.... Thanks for sharing!

[@ThomasFleischaker]

Randy the white Pontiac firebird performer is worth every penny that you paid for it😊

[@dougmahoney5872]

I like it when you show cars you purchase. You have your heart in it!!!

[@montecarlokidd144]

My dad gifted me a 1988 Monte Carlo ss I personally prefer it over my own modern truck it brings back memories thank you randy for bringing back these classics

[@howardgore9807]

Cool 91 firebird Randy. I like the wheels that's on it know Also can't wait to see you get your hands on an IROC Z28 possible 91 or 92

[@rayedwards4132]

My junior high school teacher traded his Volvo 240 and got a Formula Firebird in 1988. It was bright red with Grey leather interior. All us male students were in love with that car.

[@scottn303]

I also love the old Firebirds/ Formula I also had an 1988 Firebird T-tops off cranking Motley Crue/ girls/girls/ girls! Omg I honestly miss those days 😢

[@buddyrevell6369]

You will be at half a million subs soon, Randy. Happy to have been around for the ride. You built a great channel.

[@barrywgoodwin3923]

I absolutely love all these older cars. They are what I grew up with. You are right about the memories and good times, because thats what they were. Simpiler time and folks were a lot more respectful then. These times now. respect has mostly been thrown out the door. As for the ones that call your cars junk, seriously, let them have their fun. It's obvious they have never tried or even wanted to get behind the wheel of these old cars. Keep it Randy, love your videos, and watch every one. Thanks for keeping it real.

[@VincentRaimondi-lj5cz]

Love the car randy, I owned a Pontiac trans am gta car was absolutely fun to drive..keep buying these 80s-90s cars these were back when cars were sexy

[@Microjoey02]

The 3rd gens have a very special place in my heart. Cool car Randy!

[@dmsbroadcast9386]

The Pontiac Firebird Formula for $5,250 seems to be a great deal! Here they are 13-18k with that mileage. Greetings from Germany

[@MrJay0922]

Had a red Firebird in high school, absolutely loved that car with the exception of the v6.

[@jmccord0716]

Love the firebird Randy! Reminds me of the 1987 I had as a teen . Never should have gotten rid of that car!! Traded it for a Thunderbird that was a mistake. My bird had the honeycomb wheels on it my dad painted the car candy apple red and the wheels gold for me.

[@keepthehobbyalive823]

My first car was a 91 bird I believe I love the teardrop front end. Love the cavalier the mustangs and the formula I graduated in 2000 so these where the cool cars.

[@scottytoohotty7979]

My first car was an 84 Trans Am and I’ve been looking for another one. Everything I’ve found in decent shape they want $9000 for. Great shape 16,000 to 20,000!

[@GhostRider-ii7tz]

that’s a great score.i love those cars.i had a 85 t/a.loved it.i now have a 94 cobra.thats really clean.nice collection of cars you have.👍

[@natec4359]

Not a bad deal Randy. Had a 1989 GTA in the late 90s. Was a fun car. I am surprised that one of yours isn't tuned port. Thought even the 305s had it.

[@patricknicolucci5073]

Randy I had a 88 Firebird in white with black louvers grey interior, memories. You did good for 5K. Get the original twist wheels they are awesome.

[@bigmikeyz0071]

I’ve owned my 92’ formula 350 since I was in high school. At 17 I sold my mustang gt fox body to buy it from the original owner. He ordered it with very option including the slp perf pack. The kit consisted of headers, exhaust, cold air kit, chip, and intake runners which added 60 hp. It’s black with the black GTA wheels and just hit 50 thousand miles. Later I put a mild cam in it and I still love driving it just as much as my 02 trans am ws6 and my gt350. Enjoy the 3rd gen brah they are fun to drive.

[@rickertaxes]

Man love the old school 90's cars with the pop-up headlights.

[@GRIMRPR6942]

Been waiting for this one since i first saw it in another video. I had several Trans Am GTA's and one Formula back in the late 80's and early 90's. Theres just something so appealing about the 3rd Generation F body cars. They werent speed demons by any stretch of the imagination (unless modified) but they could hold their own against the Mustangs and Camaros of that time. My last GTA had a ZZ3 engine swap and an Art Carr built 700 R4 trans in it. The only downside was replacing the rubber trans mount every 3 months until i finally had enough and put a solid mount in it. Nice to see them getting some love! For that suspension noise, check the rear control arm/trailing arm bushings, those are notorious for weak bushings causing noise and wheel hop.

[@just4kicks950]

Randy nice find 💯🚘🔥🔥 👍. What a beautiful old car & well cared for, sitting in someone's garage. Cars like that dont exsist in the rust-belt anymore & if they do, they're $$$$. The formula & Z28 are my youth. My dear old dad would've loved to see such a clean example. The fact the dash & tonneau cover are still there, is a miracle ✨️. Sweet looking rides Randy. Salute 😎✌️

[@kevinmcdonald2286]

Randy, Nice! Find a Fiero GT to go along with the Firebird Formula.

[@bobs152]

Really nice example of a 91 Formula. I think it would be a candidate for full restoration by someone who can appreciate the car...

[@TheEnd-eg6wq]

it's got the 305, auto no ttops, it's a terrible car for restoration value.

[@deeferguson9272]

@@TheEnd-eg6wq T top cars often smell moldy because they leak. I will take a non t top car any day.

[@freedomfighter69]

For my nine grand I would have looked for ONE nice original muscle car to drive. NOT saying the ones you bought are not clean drivers. I like the videos.

[@Purplegt22]

Definitely worth the $5k in my opinion. Overall she is really clean. Man I love your channel!!! The nostalgia on these cars takes me back. Beautiful bird!!!

[@bergerk20]

My first car was a 91 firebird with the v6. Loved that car, I think you got a good deal on it. If it needed a lot of work then it would be crap but this car is mint

[@TheBBodyBuilder]

I think you got a fantastic deal on the Formula…actually you have a history of buying interesting cars and getting good deals. A buddy of mine had a nearly identical Formula (new) when we were in high school…except his had T tops which I think was super rare on those.

[@backyardbuck6362]

Love the ttop cars. Still have my 89 Formula 350 ttop blk looks like kitt,still in great shape .

[@markt5643]

I love the new bird, brings back good memories from growing up in these cars

[@americanrambler4972]

Got yourself a nice formula there. Good overall shape apparently. Probably 170 hp and 220 lbs torque for the LB6 5.0. Runs out of RPM around 4200 to 4500. Decent midrange torque. I personally liked the Formula over the TransAm myself, it looked better overall on the outside. Because it used less body cladding and cleaner spoiler shapes which show the great looking body lines and style. If it’s a good buy or not will depend on the under body condition. The muddy look of the coolant is pretty common. Drain, refill with water, run some radiator flushing through it, the, continuously flush while running until clear, drain again and add new coolant. And I still like the Pontiac Sunbird convertible. It’s a slow groaner of a motor, but overall the car is pretty good. I would enjoy driving it around town and the local country roads on a nice day. And I would be very satisfied to run around in it with the top down at 20 to 50 mph enjoying the scenery. At the end of the day, I dint think $3,000 was too much to pay for that car considering its overall condition and all it needed was a timing fix.

[@robinplayle2695]

Love all old cars these car brings back memories as I am 67 years old I think cars are worth whatever you think they are worth if you are happy with them I enjoy your channel for the old cars keep them coming enjoy life and have fun Randy

[@texastyrannyresponseteam794]

The Formula came with a formula specific Wheel/tire combo.. and.. the offset is different front to back.. so to rotate the tires you have to unmount them and swap front to back.. size was P245/50/VR16 and was part of the Famous WS6 Performance Tuned suspension package. if you start looking for a set.. make sure you get two front and two rear wheels.. THEY ARE DIFFERENT.. you are looking for 88-92 16X8 Formula wheels.. I have owned many formulas and Trans AMs over the years.. I collect F-bodies.. I was a sales manager selling Pontiacs when this car was new.. I was already an F-body enthusiast and collector then and used my position to further my collection as trade-ins came across the desk.. I ordered the new cars back then and know every option available on them.. I still have 2 Formulas.. and 3 Trans Ams from the 3rd gen era.. this one is in decent shape.. you reached deep tho considering it's the low output L03 5.0 not the TPI 5.0 or 5.7 version.. and doesn't have the proper wheels.. Interior is nice.. but the rubber is all shot.. it does have the power bulge hood, but its damaged.. surprising it's got the correct spoiler and it's intact for now.. be careful with it.. it's plastic and has to be brittle by now.. and expensive to replace.. only aftermarket.. can't buy from GM and wont see one n a junkyard.. that's why you always see the base bird wings on formulas and T/As.. the threaded inserts will pull out easy.. and when you start getting water in the hatch area well, it's coming from the bolt holes that hold the spoiler on.. th rubber seals dry out and leak.. and.. That IS just a retrofitted 134-a system... those ARE just fittings.. but that's ok.. the 3rd gen f-body never had 134-a parts from the factory.. it wasn't mandated till 1993.. a retro is the only way to get 134-a in them.. just add the fittings and some PAG oil so the refrigerant will circulate the oil.. 134-a will not mix with the mineral oil the r-11 system had.. therefore wont circulate it and you'll lose the compressor eventually.. power antenna works.. lol.. not bad.. needs paint.. but it's restorable.. question is, with what you have in it.. plus what it needs.. do you want to own a base 305 BANSHEE formula with 100k on the clock for what you'll have in it.. especially from Wisconsin.. i'd be looking for a 1987-90 TEXAS or DESERT car.. lower miles.. and a 5.7 L98 TPI engine.. just saying.. by time you sort this one out.. you could own a decent one that's actually desirable.. and fuck that rock throwing POS.. he needs an attitude adjustment.. I love the third Gen birds.. nice find..

[@allenkranawetter9482]

I used to own a 1991 Trans am with the 5.0 . I'm looking up until my oldest daughter or her boyfriend. Blew the motor in it . I bought for $1,200 soda for $200. 3 years ago I saw it for sale off of Saint Charles County Missouri for $4000

[@Gizmo5h1t3]

I'm UK here and I LOVE these cars!! Keep up the content Randy, I wait daily for your content

[@ArcticCoonass]

Great old car, money well spent, happy for you finding her, seriously looking forward to wherever you take her! Kudos Randy! 😊

[@chrisflaws6763]

I love all your cars Randy. Love the 80s and 90s models. They're all worth mega bucks in NZ. Keep up the great content

[@peterkwok9608]

Nice Firebird Formula Randy. I think you got a good deal 😎😎👍👍

[@curtislowe1454]

I personally think you bought a decent car for the money. If you know cars then you know this make and model is iconic. I would've liked to see that undercarriage though. If it is in decent shape like the rest of the car then it was a good buy.

[@chrisbeverly7266]

I'm sure plunty of people are going to think I'm crazy for saying this and don't care.... I hope you truly do know how blessed you are for having the opportunity to go and buy them amazing cars.. Of our time them cars are the cars.. You're killing it with the line of cars you keep bringing.👍

[@housekirk3165]

Nice Formula!! Mine is exactly the same but with t-tops and 5sp. I've had mine for 8yrs. ENJOY!!

[@0161pumaste]

great selection of cars randy, always interesting to me as i live in the u.k. where these cars are very rare. Also i love these types of videos where you show us the cars and drive them 🙂

[@jamesgreer6539]

Man that car is awesome! Last year I got a 95 Camero Coupe T-top. These pony cars from the 80's and 90's are my favorite. Love your collection man

[@Sdermatis]

You brought me back Randy, my first car was a 89 Camaro RS with the TBI 5.0. Terrible gearing. Great handling and braking though. Keep up the great work!! Happy Holidays

[@keithk1164]

80's and 90's cars great to see. 5k compared to what you will return from the videos are a no brainer. Great job.👏👏👏

[@nissan6541]

Who gives a shit what people say about cars from the 80’s and 90’s. My daily is a 1989 Honda Prelude SI 4WS. I have put my heart and soul into this car for the last year and a half. When I bought it, the poor car was owned by a teenager. The dash was COVERED in naughty anime girl stickers, it had a ninja sword for the shifter, it had some ugly ass purple cheap steering wheel on it, half the interior plastics were not even screwed in place, had multiple leaks here and there, and I saw through the ugly, and have been putting her back to stock form. From the factory is what I’m trying for.

[@romeoalphafoxtrot9517]

Nice car Randy! I like it! It just needs a little love. Hopefully that sewage trying to pass for coolant won't turn out to be a problem.

[@brentunderwood7600]

good video! i love the ol firebirds,i would for sure keep this car forever.

[@robsweekendgarage]

Loving the 80s/90s content. These were all cars I grew up with and saw the kids driving in high school. My father was a GM rep and would get his choice of cars to drive for work. New one every 6 months to a year. Tons of Z28’s, Monte SS’s etc. about the only thing off limits were corvettes. I like the Formula. Don’t care for the wheels. I vote to find the original ones to complete the look. But it’s your car - run what ya like!

[@tchasman]

Randy, at a certain point, the price depends on the "specific" vehicle. Especially with the older used cars. From what I am seeing and hearing, that Firebird is in "El Primo" shape. For someone to call it "junk", I don't know what to say. You are not going to find too many new cars like it. That should figure in. $5k too much? Well let's see. If it holds up long enough for you and us to enjoy it, I'd say it is worth it. I enjoy your content. Thank you.

[@rce59]

Nice car runs and drives. The 1989 gta pace care had the grand national v6 with a ceramic turbo.

[@loganlovescarsandmotorcycles]

I saw an '80s Ranger with a fart can and truck nuts the other day. I will always love the older vehicles. The younger people will never understand.

[@paulsmith-gr7cg]

Hey Randy wow brings back memories I love the old cars I don't feel that they're old dull I had Mercury Cougars 68 Dodge Charger 440 6 pack RT Had an 1970 Challenger 77 Trans M 400 Just bring back soul memories great to see these cars again Paul from Hamilton ON enjoy your videos

[@Ezemdi]

Great purchase Randy! Love the firebird

[@stevecrell9633]

Price is right on Randy love the formula!

[@maverickflint1991]

Yes it takes me back and that dash looks in pristine condition.

[@bradwhite4827]

Dude I’m really happy that you’re keeping some of these old gems man! I would hang on to them too if I could. Just cool cars that take ya back and they seem to be in good enough shape too! So awesome!

[@73amx63]

I bought an 88 Camaro base for $3500. Needed $2500 in AC work but hope to recover my investment. It's the 2.8..... Wah. 54000 Grandma special. I get thumbs up on the highway. Jack on the Pontiac should go in the right-side cubby along with the mini spare and other tools.

[@toddreese6454]

I had a 79 Z28 my best friend had the Z24 cavalier those were the best times of my life and I get why you collect them . When it comes to price,you buy what you love and it's worth what you're willing to pay you see people tens of thousands of dollars for older muscle cars that need a complete rebuild

[@meatpuppet0073]

@Auto Auction Rebuilds Not bad on the car. I used to have an 88 formula 350 firebird with a 5.7 and limited slip. I loved to drive that car. I think the factory wheels might have been the ws6 wheels. I could be wrong.

[@In_memory_of_Dad]

Randy I think you had an amazing deal and I absolutely love the car. 👍🙂👍

[@2003cobramustang]

Love that you have cars from the 80’s and 90’s!! Formula is in great shape! Good cleaning she’ll shine! Can’t wait for the 93 convertible! my opinion you got a great deal! Love the fleet!

[@timcalif]

If it was Blue with T-tops, I would absolutely buy that! LOL, seriously, that was a great deal. How much fun!!!! I love it!!! Go Class of '88!! LOL

[@stevengray5970]

These are great I’m from the uk and love watching videos about them as it’s so different to what we had well done bruv 🎉

[@Elis2000sle]

Hi Randy been watching since 21 I’m 12 and I know a lot about cars and you help me with the stuff I don’t know

[@u2fan29]

The fireman reloading the rocks for the return trip

[@garybrown4107]

Randy, I think you made a great deal on this Firebird! I looked and the original wheels are readily available and not too expensive. Good job!

[@joshkain5365]

$5000 for a badass car is not bad at all especially when it’s GM I love your trans am

[@ClayChadwell]

Hey Randy! Great content lately. A trip down memory lane for sure. Thank you very much for saving these cars and for your entertaining videos! Job well done sit!

[@pdlegend6829]

Awesome car! I just got an 89 TA t-top I've got that killer 5.0 out trying to decide if I should attempt an LS swap or just stock rebuild for now and save up for later

[@dawsonbrush]

I know this is off topic for the video but you should find a late 90s Ford Contour SVT, manual with a 2.5 V6 im so obsessed with the older early to late 90s fords it’s not even funny but great video as always, it’s such a joy to watch your videos man and the Firebird Formula is in awesome condition

[@Outdoor_Life_84]

My dad's first company car was a 91 Firebird brand new in 91. Same white color. The rear hatch had a motor to close it when it was just about all the way down. Spoiler, ground effects, and t-tops. That car was a blast to ride in when I was a kid. One day I'll find one lol. Good find for sure! Think it was the 5.0L

[@williamm.vazquez8801]

Sweet Can't Wait Too See What You Do With It

[@darrenbarboza2908]

You really have a great fleet of old school cars, I really enjoy watching your channel up here in Massachusetts …. Keep up the great buys and I’ll be looking forward to your next great purchase on the channel soon …….take care

[@HalfassDIY]

Can't beat a good nostalgia high ! I do the same thing buying old comics and magazines I had in my youth. Sweet ride ! I think that 73 Mustang is my favorite.

[@rossmartin7003]

I really like the older 80's 90's cars. I'm on the lookout for a 1994-96 Fleetwood oe Roadmaster with the LT1 V8. I wish I could have bought your Fleetwood Brougham that you had not so long ago. Wish I was as good at finding clean cheap vehicles like you. You have my dream job/life.