The Trans Am was introduced in March of 1969, and as you might have guessed it was named for the Trans Am racing series. The shorter production run of the Trans Am explains the smaller number of units than you would expect at just 689 hardtop models and only 8 convertibles. The addition of a Trans Am decal on the fender and a special Ram Air hood with functional scoops, and functional air extractors on the fenders. The Trans Am is a new model for 1969, and while it is based on the Firebird there are a few cues that distinguish the Trans Am from the Formula or standard Firebird. The rear lamps have changed a bit, there are still two long lamps per side, but for 1969 they have more of a contour shape. The cool arrow side marker lamp that was on the 1968 was replaced by an even cooler phoenix (Firebird) side marker that does light up. The front signals moved inward slightly and a round side marker lamp was added to the lower front edge of the fender. The 1969 model changed to a fascia front end with a smaller grille, narrowed up to reside inside of the headlamps. It was still the first generation model, even though the looks changed immensely – and the body changed similarly the following year. Prior to 1968, the F-body ponycar was void of any side marker lighting.įrom the front, the grille and bumper look identical for both years, but the front turn signal is mounted inside the lower valance for 1967, and for 1968 it was moved to the corner of the valance where it doubles as a side marker lamp.ġ969 was an all-new body for the Firebird, and it was also the first year for the Trans Am. It just happened to be the same arrow that is on the grille and locations on the Firebird and other Pontiacs. In 1968 Pontiac added the “Chief” arrow for the rear side marker light. This makes it the easiest way to distinguish the two years. The first notable difference is the vent window on the 1967 models, it disappeared in 1968. Much like the Camaro, the 19 Firebird have the same body and very subtle differences. Barring any custom work or modifications, our Spotter’s Guide Series will help you identify popular musclecars. It’s not always going to be easy, though, and sometimes the VIN is the only way to determine the actual year, because visual clues occasionally get carried over to the next year, or the car has been modified. Have you ever had a friend who could just look at a car and tell you what year it was? Sometimes it’s easier to tell the difference when you have more than one vehicle right in front of you, but when you only have one car there, how can you tell what year it is?
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