1982 Pontiac Firebird
50 Cars for 50 Years – Spotlight #30
The 1982 Pontiac Firebird’s sleek design and powerful performance make it a muscle car legend. As Berkley One Classics celebrates the big 5-0, we’re hosting an exciting virtual car show for collectors and enthusiasts alike. We’ll share our love of classic cars by spotlighting 50 cars for 50 years that have been chosen and beloved by our employees. Each will showcase the evolution of design and engineering and provide a nostalgic journey through auto and pop culture history. Read on as Eileen Opitz, Senior Vice President of Product Management, tells us why she loves the 1982 Pontiac Firebird.
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The Car
The 1982 Pontiac Firebird is an American classic and icon of the ’80’s that is sure to turn heads! This model is the 1st year of the third generation of General Motors popular F-Body Camaro and Firebird vehicles. The development of the 3rd generation emphasized aerodynamics and better fuel economy while improving performance over the prior model. It has a sleek aerodynamic profile accented by pop-up headlights and swept back windshield. The 1982 Pontiac Firebird gained fame as “KITT” on the TV series Knight Rider. This car offers a nostalgic driving experience and holds a special place in 80’s pop culture.
The Collector
Work on this generation of the F-Body started back in 1975 when the need for fuel efficient cars became a reality following the gas crisis of 1973-1974. With a shorter wheelbase and weighing about 500 pounds less than the previous design, the 1982 Pontiac was the most aerodynamic product GM had ever released. In fact, it was the first Firebird to be designed with the help of a wind tunnel. The 1982 Firebird was the start of a 10-year production run of the impressive and immensely popular 3rd generation sports cars.
The Love
As a kid growing up in the 80’s, watching Knight Rider was a family activity. KITT was very popular! For many friends growing up, the red Firebird Trans Am with the phoenix logo on the hood was a dream car!
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Contributed by Eileen Opitz
Photo: iStock
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This car feature is part of our 50 Cars for 50 Years campaign in honor of Berkley One Classics celebrating 50 year of insuring collectors and their vehicles. See the other cars we love here.
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Berkley One Classics is a Berkley Company who recognizes that classic cars are unique and require insurance that’s equally distinctive. Let us help you protect your beloved vehicle so you can enjoy it for years to come. Learn more here.
