'81 Firebird
Full-Throttle T/A
The late-second-generation Firebird wasn't exactly known for its high-performance handling characteristics. Jeff Schwartz of Schwartz Extreme Performance saw that as an opportunity. Schwartz Performance has more than just gotten their feet wet in Pro Touring-style builds; they incorporate high-tech suspension and high-powered motors into everything they touch. This would prove to give this 'Bird a new life style.
Schwartz started with the frame. Since nearly all the suspension characteristics are cemented by the frame's design, it would have to be improved. They constructed an entirely new frame, bumper to bumper, from 2x3-inch DOM tubing with 2-inch round tubing for bracing. This gave them the platform they needed to give the car the suspension geometry they desired. The suspension features tubular upper and lower control arms and Air Ride ShockWaves in the front, paired with a four-link-style rear suspension. Despite the increased strength, the overall vehicle weight was reduced by 60 pounds with the new frame and suspension. Schwartz Extreme Performance offers this frame in a number of arrangements. Upon completion, this car will serve as the demo for their tubular frame.
They wanted a motor that would have torn the factory frame apart. Without a doubt, the LS-series engine is the best thing for reliable, light-weight power. Instead of going with a crate option, Schwartz built a 6.9-liter LS9 mixed with LS7 parts to withstand the twin turbo punishment he will inflict. Obviously, the transmission would have to take the abuse as well, so a Bowler-built 4L85E will back it, controlled by column-mounted paddle shifters for that race feel.
The body and paint would not be as outspoken as the suspension and drivetrain. They decided to do subtle body modifications that only a Pontiac purest would notice right away. While other shops use white paint to hide bad bodywork, Schwartz uses it to give a high-quality clean look that is timeless.
These wheels are era-correct...
These wheels are era-correct as well as big enough to fit the baddest of brakes. That's why Schwartz thought the Forgeline TA3P wheels were a no-brainer.
By The Numbers
1981 Pontiac Firebird
Jeff Schwartz, 39 * Crystal Lake, IL
Performance: 1,500 horsepower
| ENGINE |
| Type: | GM LS9 |
| Block: | prototype iron LS9 |
| Oiling: | GM dry sump |
| Rotating assembly: | Wiseco custom pistons, |
| | Eagle forged LS7 crank and rods |
| Cylinder heads: | ported LS9 aluminum |
| Camshaft: | COMP custom grind |
| Valvetrain: | Yella Terra |
| Induction: | Schwartz modified GMPP |
| | carburetor style intake with EFI, |
| | custom intercooler and |
| | twin 70mm turbo system |
| Ignition: | MSD coil-on-plug |
| Cooling: | Be Cool aluminum radiator |
| Fuel system: | Holley electric pump |
| Exhaust: | custom 3-inch dual exhaust |
| DRIVETRAIN |
| Transmission/shifter: | Bowler 4L85E, |
| | Twist Machine paddle shifter |
| Driveshaft: | chrome-moly |
| Rear axle: | Winters 9-inch housing, |
| | Moser internals |
| SUSPENSION |
| Chassis: | Schwartz F-body full frame |
| | with Air Ride suspension |
| Brakes: | Baer 14-inch rotors |
| | with 6-piston calipers |
| BODY |
| Doors: | Year One Bandit door panels |
| Column: | GM tilt |
| Comforts: | air conditioning, |
| | power windows, |
| | and power locks |
| Mods: | shaved door locks, |
| | filled marker lights, |
| | reworked fender air extractors, |
| | flush-mounted Year One Bandit flares, |
| | and flush-mounted glass |
| Paint: | PPG Schwartz White Lighting |
| | with Pfaff Designs one-off bird |
| | applied by Greg at Sticker Dude Designs |
| WHEELS/TIRES |
| Wheels: | Forgeline TA3P 19x9- and 19x12-inch |
| Tires: | Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 |