Ever since Burt Reynolds made the Pontiac Trans Am Firebird famous in ‘Smokey and the Bandit,’ the car has had a special place in many people’s hearts. Although it was one of the cars of the 1970s and ’80s, the Firebird hasn’t been such a common sight on our roads recently. However, that it looks like that’s all about to change with the Pontiac Trans Am Firebird making a comeback in 2021.
End Of The Line
The beloved car was discontinued by General Motors in 2010 despite it being a staple for over eight decades. All good things must come to an end, and it seemed as though the Pontiac Trans Am Firebird had run out of road. Although several efforts to keep the Firebird dream alive, General Motors’ financial woes meant that fans had to wave goodbye to the car in 2010.
Bringing The Beast Back
A company run by Firebird enthusiasts will be taking on the challenge of bringing the classic car back. Trans Am Depot is the company that will be building new Firebirds after spending 50 years winning awards for its custom-built Pontiacs.
The 2021 Firebird will be based on the Chevy Camaro before that chassis is extensively reworked to look like the Pontiac. It’s estimated that over 300 parts on the Camaro will be modified to make it look like a Firebird.
Based On A Classic
There is no better version of the Firebird to use as the first in a new line than the ‘Bandit’ version from 1977. The new model was reportedly endorsed by Burt Reynolds himself, and there will only be 77 of them made.
It won’t come cheap, with a retail price of $115,000, but it will pack a punch. The 2021 Pontiac Trans Am Firebird will hit the 200mph mark, and fans of the classic car can get a look at the revamped model next year.
Formula 1 Stays its Decision of a Standing Restart
The decision for a standing restart has witnessed certain eye rolls at the F1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, many calling it an “American” thing. However, Formula 1 has stood by its decision citing safety reasons.
What Went Down at Azerbaijan Grand Prix
The race held at Baku was red-flagged after the youngest driver of F1 Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing met with an accident. The red flags were brought out to put the race on pause and clear out the particles of a tire blowout. The tires of other competitors were assessed and the race was restarted from standing start with only two laps to go.
Allegations of Putting on a Show
This decision did not go down well with other drivers. Pierre Gasly of Alpha Tauri commented that he was not surprised by this decision and called it an American thing for entertainment. The comment was directed at Formula 1’s owner Liberty Media. But, he further added that he supported the decision and said that he found it intense and hopes this trend continues.
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix winner Sergio Perez added that although he agrees with the decision, he thinks that the decision should be “consistent” so as to retain fans.
Aston Martin’s Sebastian Vettel is concerned that the show might become “too artificial” if such decisions are made. But Andreas Seidl of McLaren maintains that the decision to resume the match was right. He said that although it is better to restart the match, there is nothing wrong with putting on a little show. When insinuated that Formula 1 might compromise safety for show purposes, Michael Masi declined the charge. He said there are no regulations suggesting that you cannot restart a race. Also, he saw no reason to end the race because of the red flag situation.