1996–1998 Pontiac Firebird 3.8 V6 Specs & Performance

The Pontiac Firebird 3.8 V6 offered the distinctive styling of an American sports coupe without requiring the larger V8 found in the range’s performance-focused models. Its long hood, low roofline, and sculpted fourth-generation body gave it a purposeful appearance, while the rear hatch made the two-door design more versatile for everyday use. Inside, the driver-oriented cockpit reinforced its sporting character, and the compact rear seats provided room for occasional passengers. The result was a more accessible entry point into the Firebird lineup, combining recognizable muscle-car styling with a practical approach to daily driving.

For 1996–1998, the Firebird 3.8 V6 used a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 producing 200 hp and 225 lb-ft of torque. Its rear-wheel-drive layout preserved the traditional driving character of an American performance coupe, with a choice of five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Rather than matching the V8 models in outright power, this version emphasized balanced everyday performance and familiar mechanical simplicity. Its combination of distinctive styling, a responsive six-cylinder engine, and useful rear-hatch access made it a versatile member of Pontiac’s sports-coupe range.