I worked as a painter for Pontiac at a dealership and installed dozens and dozens of those decals, you would think that they would be difficult. They were one of the most easy decals that I ever put on,when you got over the sheer size, about 10 or 15 minutes from start to finish when I first started, and after I got used to them It’d take about five minutes😁😁😁
@@michaelraya-p4k The secret was a spray bottle filled with water and a few drops of dish soap 👍👍👍 I also did lots of station wagons with the wood grain down the side, Those were Tough 😐
@@MarkFie-qn4pe When I went to pick up my new trans am, it was being brought back to the dealership on a tow truck. It had a burr on the carburetor. The clock didn't work and, of course, the hood decal was damaged. That car sat on the lot for 15 days before they began to repair it. When they finally got it drivable, I found McDonald's wrappers and Big Mac boxes stuffed into my console. I finally got rid of that car by trading for a new Grand Prix. An older gentleman had a daughter who was going to buy the car. He asked about the car. They shot him a price that was more than what the actually sticker was listed at! We can reminisce about those cars but they were junk. I hoped Pontiac would go out of business. Well, I got my wish.
This is a wonderful story of just plain brilliance seat of the pants evidence of what sells, the story of Mr. Schinella pointing out all of the hoods coming in on one assembly line without the bird, and every one leaving with the hood bird, is just a plain Fact, and you can't deny sales in the car industry, if the bird is on the hood it's a sold car ! Great story !
I have loved the hood bird ever since I saw it on the car. GM should have never killed Pontiac at the end of 2009. That still makes me mad. I'm definitely a Pontiac guy.
They “killed” Pontiac because no one was buying their bland and identity less products. Chevrolet easily filled the void with their bland and identity less products.
Find it ironic that often people in charge cannot see a great concept. The now iconic firebird plus the spoilers on the Trans Am's of that era, made every young man (including me) want one.
I was born in 1974. I still remember that hood bird. It made a massive impression on me in the first five years of my life. To this day I still think it is one of the coolest paint jobs any car has ever had… and I still want one.
"Absolutely riveting! Exploring the backstory of the Pontiac Firebird Hood Bird is like taking a thrilling journey through automotive history. The twists and turns, from initial rejection to the ingenious transformation showcased on a black car with gold stripes, paint a vivid picture of innovation and perseverance in the world of car design. As a passionate car enthusiast, I'm eagerly seeking more captivating stories like this. Are there other tales of automotive evolution waiting to be uncovered on this channel? Can't wait to dive into more intriguing narratives from the fascinating world of automobiles!"
Thanks so much for the kind comments. We definitely have more stories coming, so check back, and please share with anyone else you think might be interested! Again, many thanks!
I worked at the Baltimore Assembly Plant. Muscle car Heaven! During plant tours the visitors were flabbergasted to watch the "Body Drop." That was when the completed body, from the firewall to the rear bumper, was lowered to meet the chassis on the first floor. One body was dropped onto the frame at a rate of one per minute. I think this would make a good feature for this channel. These were the years we built the Buick, Pontiac, Oldsmobile and Chevrolet "A" bodies all on the same assembly line. In later years we converted to the M-Vans.
Being a car enthusiast, stories like this about the design evolution of iconic cars like the Pontiac Firebird Hood Bird really resonate. It's remarkable how even a seemingly small design element can have such a significant impact on the overall appeal and legacy of a vehicle. The blend of artistry from Tiffany vases and feathers with the practicality of automotive design showcases the intersection of creativity and engineering in the automotive world. It's a testament to how every detail, even on the hood of a car, can become a piece of automotive history . . . . . Edit : 108377
@terryoquinn8199 I know brother your 100 💯 right. Not only did she total my car but it was brand new and taken to a shop and had so much dine to it including a blower out of the hood. Like you said, never let them drive your car...but I was young
As a multi Trans Am owner over the years, I always detested that nickname especially from Chevy guys. It morphed to include all second gens with the possible exception of the early Formulas where people now ask, ‘What’s that?’.
Thanks and we agree 100%! We’re so happy both of those amazing guys sat with us to talk about their careers at GM and the development of the bird! Really interesting that it went through so many iterations.
Great story, my best friend bought a black firebird in 1980 and brought it over to show me and take a ride into Westwood. Everyone who saw us were waving and yelling Awesome ride guys. That was some good times.
I had a 1974 Formula 400 4-Speed Manual. I did not have the Bird, but I did have the Coolest RAM AIR HOOD SCOOPS. Man, I always loved Firebirds. As a Old Guy now, my Wife and I have a few Corvettes.
312802 I like the large hood bird. It's bold and in your face with no apologies. When Bill Porter said he doodled the idea on a napkin is pretty awesome. I bet alot of good ideas start out that way.
Fantastic production ! Loved seeing the archived video footage of the GM plant .I have been a fan of the Transam hood graphic design ever since its release.I installed them and we developed a generic version to install on owners cars and at the dealers . I worked for a autographics company called Trimline. here in Atlantic Canada.Thank you for the well researched content in this video.
I was 17 yrs when I saw the Firebird Trans Am in dark green and gold, it was a thing of beauty, I went bonkers, I mean, I couldn't sleep, had to get one. Love at❤ first sight, couldn't live without the bird/ decal on the car.
Thanks for the story from the designer's view. Fire chicken on the cover Hotrod magazine had me sold at first sight. A diehard Pontiac man, for life, the only manufacturer that had its head cut and still doesn't know it's dead.
This was a truly fascinating video. The history of the bird’s origin, the behind-the-scenes stories (“a poet of profanity”) and the archival photos were fantastic. Bravo!
The question I've tried answer is which style bird for which year. From what I can tell the flame style wing was up to 78 and the feather wing was from 79-81, with the wildcard is the gold special edition 78 had a feather style bird . I've seen a few other 77/78 with a feather style but don't know if that was done in a restoration and not period correct. I was 8/9 when they first came out so wasn't in the market to buy but love the car.
We’ll try and do a story about this. I have some folks I can talk to that can get it straightened out. The confusion comes in when people swap the bird during restoration. I am a fan of putting the correct bird on for the year of the car if you’re restoring it for sale or collecting, but if you’re restoring it to keep and drive, put your favorite version on regardless of year!
LOVE THE BIG BIRD! It had its followers and copycats! The Firebird screaming chicken is as iconic as the racing stripes everybody else had. And those special edition Trans Ams only made them more spectacular! Thanks for being bold guys!
Ooh...this was so excellent!!! Every time I see a Firebird on the road, I smile...not only are they totally sexy, phenomenal machines...but, I have known since 1978, that I am a second-cousin to John Schinella. He totally rocks!!! 💗💗💗
Love the Firebird decal, it's what made the Pontiac Firebird such a iconic car. I got Pontiac Transam made in Norwood, love the car, from South Africa. Great video, never knew the history of the Firebird decal, thank you 👍
I never knew the story until now! I remember being a little kid and watching Smokey amd the Bandit and falling in love with the TA. Years later when the 4th gen was out my mom and I test drove a WS6 and she was this close to buying it but didn't. Later a friend of a kid I went to school with bought it and I drooled over that thing! Then the 98 model came out and I was mesmerized seeing it on the cover of Motor Trend. I HAD to have one. I finally did get one a few years back and have been going back and forth on putting a Screaming Chicken on it for fun. I've seen the hood decals and t top decals and can't decide, but after watching this I am leaning towards the hood decal! Great video!!!
@@OriginalMotorCar I'll keep you posted if/when I do it. Wouldn't be for awhile as I work for a local school district and the end of the year is crazy!
Thank you OMC for posting this video. The Bucky Red Pontiac ad in 72, for the 73 car really grabbed my attention. Was 18 at the time, loved GTOs, but the early T/As, ('Specially the 73 hood bird cars,) IMHO was Detroit's best work of art. thanks for the memories. :)
Really appreciate the comment. Definitely subscribe so you can see more on your RUclips feed. We’ll be posting some great videos in the next few weeks and months!
Had a 75 with the bird. It was about 3 years old at the time, but still one of the best driving machines I've ever owned. The way that car made me feel was like nothing else.
So sweet! 400 small block, turbo 400 transmission, 4 barrel Rodchester carburetor and a 411 rear end! Man… I miss that car. I got rid of it when my wife wrecked it when I was forced to let her drive it. Such a sad day.
This is a great interview, thank you for publishing this! I started watching the video wondering if Bill would talk a bit about John Schinella also, since he was in the Pontiac Design Studio also around the same time. AH! You mention John at 4:08...fantastic, thank you! And 4:36 Here John is! What a great interview sequence!!!
Yep, it’s definitely become one of the most iconic symbols in all of automotive history. Don’t know a single person that couldn’t identify it. No doubt helped by the popularity of Smokey and the Bandit.
Great video! Bill and John are great guys and have fantastic stories. Both of them have come to Trans Am Nationals many times and I love their lectures. I have many items John has signed for me, including my map pocket in my '89 Formula 350.
In 1977 there was a dealership in Plymouth, MA that had a brand new Goldenrod Yellow Firebird - rare even back then. I was only 5 years old at the time, but that's the car that got me to fall in love with cars, and the Firebird in particular. I hope whoever bought that beauty enjoyed it.
Never owned a Trans Am...but did have a Firemist/white vinyl interior/rooftop '72 Firebird Formula 400 with 14 inch rear slicks. Was the fastest ponycar that I have ever had. The other 3 were Camaros from the "Malaise" era. A '77 Type LT (new) a '79 Z28 (used) and an '80 Berlinetta (used). Wish that I would have known about those '81 Yenko Turbo Z (28s) as I would have driven to wherever they were being modded and paid for one! PA?
Enjoyed the video. When I was a kid the guy down the street graduated from Ole Miss and was signed by the NE Patriots. His first purchase after signing was a 1978 TA; beautiful car. Going forward, I'd like to see a video on how the Pontiac Banshee concept car morphed into the C3 "coke bottle" Corvette.
My mom had a White 1984 15th Anniversary TA, it was a great looking car from the exterior the interior was a bit well Plastic with fake plastic rivot/bolts on the dashboard. But damn did it sound great on I-77…heading to the Richfield Coliseum.
Loved my first year first generation Firebird. I liked the native bird but first fell in love with the flaming bird on a mid 70s a gorgeous neighbor girl had. I never knew of the first generation until Dad decided to check mine out. 326 2 speed powerglide. Loved it.
Fun to hear, Fun to learn. Con’t let go of the past, so that we can inspire the future. I hope to see &/or own another Pontiac before I die. Solid work. Thank you!
Great story! As a kid I remember my neighbor pulling up with his Trans Am. The bird was the coolest thing. I also remember the sticker bubbled a little and my neighbor trying to work the bubbles out.
It's hard to imagine those 70s T/As without the screaming chicken decal but to this day my favorite T/A is the Duke's Brewster green '73 in McQ. Just the small bird on the nose. This is the classiest Trans Am made in my opinion.
I love the fire bird! Has always been a favourite of mine and a dream car. Very interesting how the team got the bird going. Thanks very much for sharing these great stories.
My mum got a second hand 1973 Pontiac Trans AM in the 80's, as a kid it was awesome going down to Santa Pod raceway for a day out in the UK and I've loved American muscle cars since
Really cool channel. I really enjoyed learning about the history of the hood bird, i love it always have. Also, I didn't know that Norwood was where these cars were made and I lived there for 10 years and grew up in a neighborhood close by. So learned something new today and thats always a plus😂 thanks and stay safe and blessed 🙏
I was 13 years old when I happened upon one of these cars, it left an indelible impression on me which lasts till this day, so a big thank you to those that bought it to fruition and many thanks for creating this documentary. 👍
In 1975 I was 11 and I had a neighbour around the corner (here in Melbourne Australia) that had both a red and a silver Trans Am. He must’ve had really deep pockets. I’d see them very occasionally as I rode past on my bike. I just loved the look of those cars. In 2013 I bought my Stellar Blue, early build, 1975 400 4speed Trans Am and absolutely love that hood scoop and light blue bird emblem. Not to mention the sound of that V8. Dreams really do come true. 👍
Keep dropping videos it really helps understand the what happend as a younger person that likes cars it keeps the knowledge being passed around can you do a Dodge daytona and the plymouth superbird please I think it would be a good edition to the channel
Good article. I will always remember the hood bird being called the "Screaming Chicken." I had an '84 Trans Am at one time, there was a mini hood bird on the Ram Air scoop.
Very cool new channel great work on this video! Looks like you are definitely on to something with the viewership this video has, and as a Pontiac guy really appreciate the interviews and information! Keep up the good work!
As a former owner of a Trans Am GTA, in our circles we never referred to it as Phoenix, instead it’s either “Screaming Chicken” or “Fire Chicken”. It’s because of its American Indian origin.
REALLY nice video! Many photos I have never seen before, along with great info from the very folks responsible. I guess I gotta subscribe now, don't I? :-)
My mom made these, along with many other automotive transfers, like woody sides of the classic station wagons. My name is Bicycle Bob and I approved this message and working around those chemicals gave her cancer.
Love the "Screaming Chicken" I've got a 1979 Y84 Special Edition Black and Gold 400 4spd that I need to restore. My 1st car in High School was a 79 Y84 SE B&G with the 403 Automatic. I loved that car but it didn't survive my teenaged years. Totaled it before I graduated HS.
Interesting to know the story behind the bird! I've been a fan of the Firebirds since I was a kid. They just looked better than the Camaros and Mustangs to me. And I liked that they were a little less common than the Mustangs and Camaros. I've had 2 of them. My second one, which was a 97 Formula model, I got a Firebird decal myself and put it on. It wasn't quite as big as the decal on the 70s models, but it still made mine stand out among the others on the road from the 90s era that didn't have the decal.
Such a great story. The upcoming generation can find a great takeaway from this. Stepping out and finding new ideas isn't easy and you will face adversity, but believe in yourself and push through. You may be the next great idea instead of settling for remaking something that is already established. If you haven't found your opportunity, you haven't looked around enough corners.
This was cool! I always wondered about this. My Dad worked for the GM plant Anderson, IN in the late 70's early 80's. He started on the "line" and worked his way up to Plant Manager, that was pretty cool in itself. One day he brought home the Firebird resin pieces that go on the outside by the window. I was a kid with little or no interest in cars at the time. I wasn't sure what to do with them. By this time he was remarried (parents divorced around '80) I was visiting him at his "other" home and instead of taking them home with me when I left, I just gave them to my step-sister. I never saw them again! Oh, I wish I had those NOW!!! UGH!!
@@OriginalMotorCar Yes and this was in the 80's. My uncle (on my mom's side) and I were having a conversation about that. My uncle said-"Do you know how much your dad was making?" I had no clue. "about $25 an hour." Now I understand how we could afford a brick house (we had built) on 2 acres of land, just outside of town. It all makes since now! Hmm.
So cool, my first new car was a 1978 Pontiac Trans Am in Martinique blue, ordered it with out the bird decal, wanted a 'sleeper' looking car, had no t-tops, no a/c, 4 spd manual, WS6 pkg, & no radio.
I'm a Mopar guy and never cared much for these cars, but that was a great story. The Firebird hood bird was a quintessential and iconic design element, it would seem strange to not have the decal there.
At the end of my first deployment I ordered a Trans Am through an on-site AFEES sales rep. Carousel red, white oxen (if I’m remembering rightly) interior, and 455/4 spd…..bird delete. To be accepted at a dealership in Columbia, SC. Beautiful automobile…had 8 miles on it. I thought the bird decal was a bit over the top and never regretted ordering the car without it. I had lots and lots of fun with that car (bat turns and such) but the wife kept knocking the front air dams off.
I own a 1968 Firebird 400 and a 1971 Trans Am 455HO. I was impressed by this video the first time I saw it; in fact I shared the details of the origin of the First Gen and Second Gen Firebird logos with my wife. I always suspected the First Gen was of American Indian origin but was surprised to learn that the Second Gen came from a Tiffany vase design! In fact I took a photo of the vase to share with the guys in my Pontiac Club. Even though it's early in the video the origin of the graphic design concepts are discussed, that is my favorite part. The lighting discussion at the end is interesting too on how the bird was design retained and offered on the 73's - 81. I've been a Firebird owner for 46 years going back to my 1972 Firebird Formula 400... keep up the great stories!
Thanks so much for sharing your story with us, and sharing this story with others! Can't thank you enough. Would love to see your '68 and '71? Do you still own your '72 Formula 400?
In Europe you do not see this cars often. Netherlands, must be late 80's. I was a kid. My mom sometimes took me and my brother and sister to a larger city to buy clothing. Next to a xxx shop, in front of a tiny parking garage. There was a black car. It had a golden bird on the hood. I was sold. I had never seen such a car and the bird was incredibly awesome. I will never forget.
I'd love to know more about the decal process at Lordstown in the late 70's ' Formula' Sunbirds, Monza 'Spyder' Olds Starfire 'Firenza' and Buick Nighthawk, and more!
It's interesting how the first generation Firebird used a native American bird emblem, which is actually the Thunderbird. The Firebird and the legend of the Firebird isn't even native American at all. The Phoenix or firebird originates from ancient Greek mythology. However, some Native American tribes may have adopted the Phoenix or firebird as a symbol or incorporated it into their culture through modern cultural exchange.
I had a 77 Firebird, and I actually made my own bird for the hood, keeping in a similar style but sweeping the wings even further towards the mirrors (more like flames) and tapering into a stripe that went along the body towards the tail. I miss that car.
@@Iamivana1 I really wish I had some. I only had 2, one of them was with my girlfriend at the time and when we broke up I tossed the pic, and the other one... I should look for that, probably in my sea trunk.
When I was a kid of 20, I had a 75 Stellar Blue TA, 400 4 speed. No hood bird, it had a trans am decal on the spoiler and 400 on the shaker but otherwise no other decals. That was sweet... At the same time my Father had a an Atlantis Blue 79 TA 403 auto, that one had a bird of course.
My step dad was one of those tote the note dealers when this car came out. I told him, as a kid, that he should buy and sell the Trans Ams and he thought it was a dumb idea but he grabbed a black one and made good money....next thing you know we had gone through multiple colors of these cars and ir was the first car i ever tried to sneak out. I was in the 7th or 8th grade and had visions of how kewl i would be driving around. Damn... those are some good memories
Thanks for sharing the memories! Those hood birds were definitely an acquired taste. Took some getting used to, but once you did, it was hard to imagine a world without them!
Thanks for sharing the memories! The hod bird was definitely an acquired taste! But once you got used to it, it was hard to image a world without them!
I worked as a painter for Pontiac at a dealership and installed dozens and dozens of those decals, you would think that they would be difficult. They were one of the most easy decals that I ever put on,when you got over the sheer size, about 10 or 15 minutes from start to finish when I first started, and after I got used to them It’d take about five minutes😁😁😁
That's very interesting. The guy that put mine on was a basket case afterwards.
@@michaelraya-p4k The secret was a spray bottle filled with water and a few drops of dish soap 👍👍👍 I also did lots of station wagons with the wood grain down the side, Those were Tough 😐
@@MarkFie-qn4pe When I went to pick up my new trans am, it was being brought back to the dealership on a tow truck. It had a burr on the carburetor. The clock didn't work and, of course, the hood decal was damaged. That car sat on the lot for 15 days before they began to repair it. When they finally got it drivable, I found McDonald's wrappers and Big Mac boxes stuffed into my console. I finally got rid of that car by trading for a new Grand Prix. An older gentleman had a daughter who was going to buy the car. He asked about the car. They shot him a price that was more than what the actually sticker was listed at! We can reminisce about those cars but they were junk. I hoped Pontiac would go out of business. Well, I got my wish.
Love that story.
Please take this message real. I have a Buick skylark 70. I need skylark emblems for my car how can I get them??
This is a wonderful story of just plain brilliance seat of the pants evidence of what sells, the story of Mr. Schinella pointing out all of the hoods coming in on one assembly line without the bird, and every one leaving with the hood bird, is just a plain Fact, and you can't deny sales in the car industry, if the bird is on the hood it's a sold car ! Great story !
I have loved the hood bird ever since I saw it on the car. GM should have never killed Pontiac at the end of 2009. That still makes me mad. I'm definitely a Pontiac guy.
I know, right. Just seems so short sighted to kill Pontiac. They really flat lined a HUGE loyalty base when the did that.
GM is like Biden. Catering to China by keeping the Buick brand.
Obama killed Pontiac , look it up.
Pontiac and Plymouth, two great brands killed by idiots.
They “killed” Pontiac because no one was buying their bland and identity less products. Chevrolet easily filled the void with their bland and identity less products.
Find it ironic that often people in charge cannot see a great concept. The now iconic firebird plus the spoilers on the Trans Am's of that era, made every young man (including me) want one.
100%!
I know...they will fight tooth and nail against something that is plainly the right choice. Shows how blind corporate is.
Fear is one hell of a motivator .
it was by far one of the coolest cars of the time...
I was born in 1974. I still remember that hood bird. It made a massive impression on me in the first five years of my life. To this day I still think it is one of the coolest paint jobs any car has ever had… and I still want one.
Thanks for sharing the feeling! We couldn’t agree more!
"Absolutely riveting! Exploring the backstory of the Pontiac Firebird Hood Bird is like taking a thrilling journey through automotive history. The twists and turns, from initial rejection to the ingenious transformation showcased on a black car with gold stripes, paint a vivid picture of innovation and perseverance in the world of car design. As a passionate car enthusiast, I'm eagerly seeking more captivating stories like this. Are there other tales of automotive evolution waiting to be uncovered on this channel? Can't wait to dive into more intriguing narratives from the fascinating world of automobiles!"
Thanks so much for the kind comments. We definitely have more stories coming, so check back, and please share with anyone else you think might be interested! Again, many thanks!
I have heard this story many times and it never gets old 👍
Glad it was brought into the documentary for all us enthusiasts to find out about it!
Thanks, Dan. Appreciate the comment and support! :)
I worked at the Baltimore Assembly Plant. Muscle car Heaven! During plant tours the visitors were flabbergasted to watch the "Body Drop." That was when the completed body, from the firewall to the rear bumper, was lowered to meet the chassis on the first floor. One body was dropped onto the frame at a rate of one per minute. I think this would make a good feature for this channel. These were the years we built the Buick, Pontiac, Oldsmobile and Chevrolet "A" bodies all on the same assembly line. In later years we converted to the M-Vans.
Being a car enthusiast, stories like this about the design evolution of iconic cars like the Pontiac Firebird Hood Bird really resonate. It's remarkable how even a seemingly small design element can have such a significant impact on the overall appeal and legacy of a vehicle. The blend of artistry from Tiffany vases and feathers with the practicality of automotive design showcases the intersection of creativity and engineering in the automotive world. It's a testament to how every detail, even on the hood of a car, can become a piece of automotive history
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Edit : 108377
Absolutely, and we’ll put! Thanks for the great comment!
108377
It's your email right , "drew money " ?
reads like something from a magazine?
I’m 73 and never heard this story before. Thanks
Glad we could bring it to you!
I miss mine. Had a '79. The 1st car I bought on my own. Good memories.
My first car was a brand new '79 trans am gold edition. Had it for a year. Never let a girl you just met drive your car 😢😢
Yeah I miss mine as well😊
@user-bi9fo3sx6l lol. My ex blew the motor. Had a small oil leak and she overfilled it.
What is wrong with you people ? Letting new girls drive your Trans Am’s and put oil in them when they clearly didn’t know how !
@terryoquinn8199 I know brother your 100 💯 right. Not only did she total my car but it was brand new and taken to a shop and had so much dine to it including a blower out of the hood. Like you said, never let them drive your car...but I was young
Same!
We always referred to the bird as “Screaming Chicken” or “Fire Chicken”.
Former owner of Trans Am.
Yep, she goes by many names!
Super Chicken. Back in the day, I had a red '75.👍
As a multi Trans Am owner over the years, I always detested that nickname especially from Chevy guys. It morphed to include all second gens with the possible exception of the early Formulas where people now ask, ‘What’s that?’.
It's not a screaming chicken
I always thought Screaming Chicken was the official name
Great video! Love the interviews with Bill Porter and John Schinella. It’s not a Trans Am without the Firebird on the hood!
Thanks and we agree 100%! We’re so happy both of those amazing guys sat with us to talk about their careers at GM and the development of the bird! Really interesting that it went through so many iterations.
Great story, my best friend bought a black firebird in 1980 and brought it over to show me and take a ride into Westwood. Everyone who saw us were waving and yelling Awesome ride guys. That was some good times.
I had a 1974 Formula 400 4-Speed Manual. I did not have the Bird, but I did have the Coolest RAM AIR HOOD SCOOPS. Man, I always loved Firebirds. As a Old Guy now, my Wife and I have a few Corvettes.
Sounds like a nice stable of cars over the years!
I had a 76 formula those were rare to find loved those hoods
Only reason I went to a Corvette later in life was it was so hard to find a nice Formula
Great video !
It was neat hearing it straight from the designers mouths!
I look forward to the documentary.
Thanks for the comment. Full doc releases later this year so stay tuned!
Those '70-'73 front ends are the best looking.
Agreed. Are used to be partial to the 79, 80, and 81, but it’s hard to beat the original!
The blue and white 70 T/A is one of the most beautiful cars ever made, imo.
they remind me of my last wife pissed off and gorgeous
The passenger-side bucket of a '72 Formula was the seat I literally grew up in, from 0-13 years.
@@RecklessFables ha ha nice
312802 I like the large hood bird. It's bold and in your face with no apologies. When Bill Porter said he doodled the idea on a napkin is pretty awesome. I bet alot of good ideas start out that way.
Hey man, did you got the reply
Not since I put the code up, but it's the holidays so I'm being patient.
@@Exclaimer_Gamer me toooo
Thanks guys and congratulations again! Appreciate the support!!
I love when Burt Reynolds drove the trans am out of the semi-trailer.
One of the greatest movie car reveal scenes of all time!
"Honey hush".
Yea it looked like a Lion stepping out of a cage.
I don't know man, a certain DeLorean had a pretty bit*hin reveal from a step van too. Lol
We all did!!! 😁
I'm 50 years old now, I remember this car when it first came out, I loved that bird so much! And so did my dad!
The world really could use a new Firebird right about now.
I wanna say the world needs a big bird about now 😂 j/k you’re right, I would love one.
Fantastic production ! Loved seeing the archived video footage of the GM plant .I have been a fan of the Transam hood graphic design ever since its release.I installed them and we developed a generic version to install on owners cars and at the dealers . I worked for a autographics company called Trimline. here in Atlantic Canada.Thank you for the well researched content in this video.
I was 17 yrs when I saw the Firebird Trans Am in dark green and gold, it was a thing of beauty, I went bonkers, I mean, I couldn't sleep, had to get one. Love at❤ first sight, couldn't live without the bird/ decal on the car.
Nice! Did you end up getting one?
Thanks for the story from the designer's view. Fire chicken on the cover Hotrod magazine had me sold at first sight. A diehard Pontiac man, for life, the only manufacturer that had its head cut and still doesn't know it's dead.
This was a truly fascinating video. The history of the bird’s origin, the behind-the-scenes stories (“a poet of profanity”) and the archival photos were fantastic. Bravo!
Had a 75 Firebird. Really liked that car. Saw a 77 Trans Am and fell in love. Was able to get a 78 a few years later. Loved it and miss it a lot.
The question I've tried answer is which style bird for which year. From what I can tell the flame style wing was up to 78 and the feather wing was from 79-81, with the wildcard is the gold special edition 78 had a feather style bird . I've seen a few other 77/78 with a feather style but don't know if that was done in a restoration and not period correct. I was 8/9 when they first came out so wasn't in the market to buy but love the car.
We’ll try and do a story about this. I have some folks I can talk to that can get it straightened out. The confusion comes in when people swap the bird during restoration. I am a fan of putting the correct bird on for the year of the car if you’re restoring it for sale or collecting, but if you’re restoring it to keep and drive, put your favorite version on regardless of year!
Great story. It is now and forever will be a BIG part of American muscle car history.
Yup, the Pontiac Fire Chicken
@@Beauloqs
🔥 🐔. 😆
🔥 🐔. 😁😆
100%! Thanks for watching!
@OriginalMotorCar
70-73 were the best nose and body with a taller shaker than later years. I had a '79 W30 403.
LOVE THE BIG BIRD! It had its followers and copycats! The Firebird screaming chicken is as iconic as the racing stripes everybody else had. And those special edition Trans Ams only made them more spectacular! Thanks for being bold guys!
Ooh...this was so excellent!!! Every time I see a Firebird on the road, I smile...not only are they totally sexy, phenomenal machines...but, I have known since 1978, that I am a second-cousin to John Schinella. He totally rocks!!! 💗💗💗
Love the Firebird decal, it's what made the Pontiac Firebird such a iconic car. I got Pontiac Transam made in Norwood, love the car, from South Africa. Great video, never knew the history of the Firebird decal, thank you 👍
That’s really cool to hear that some of these Norwood cars wound up half way around the world! Thanks for sharing!
I never knew the story until now! I remember being a little kid and watching Smokey amd the Bandit and falling in love with the TA.
Years later when the 4th gen was out my mom and I test drove a WS6 and she was this close to buying it but didn't. Later a friend of a kid I went to school with bought it and I drooled over that thing!
Then the 98 model came out and I was mesmerized seeing it on the cover of Motor Trend. I HAD to have one. I finally did get one a few years back and have been going back and forth on putting a Screaming Chicken on it for fun. I've seen the hood decals and t top decals and can't decide, but after watching this I am leaning towards the hood decal! Great video!!!
Definitely do the hood decal and send us an email with a picture when you do! Send it to hello@originalmotorcar.com!
@@OriginalMotorCar I'll keep you posted if/when I do it. Wouldn't be for awhile as I work for a local school district and the end of the year is crazy!
Thank you OMC for posting this video. The Bucky Red Pontiac ad in 72, for the 73 car really grabbed my attention. Was 18 at the time, loved GTOs, but the early T/As, ('Specially the 73 hood bird cars,) IMHO was Detroit's best work of art. thanks for the memories. :)
Really appreciate the comment. Definitely subscribe so you can see more on your RUclips feed. We’ll be posting some great videos in the next few weeks and months!
@@OriginalMotorCar Anything, (Pontiac related) I'll be lookin fwd to. Thanks again.
Had a 75 with the bird. It was about 3 years old at the time, but still one of the best driving machines I've ever owned. The way that car made me feel was like nothing else.
They really were fun to drive!
I bought a used one when I was 16 - my first car! High School was a lot of fun that year!
So sweet! 400 small block, turbo 400 transmission, 4 barrel Rodchester carburetor and a 411 rear end! Man… I miss that car. I got rid of it when my wife wrecked it when I was forced to let her drive it. Such a sad day.
This is a great interview, thank you for publishing this! I started watching the video wondering if Bill would talk a bit about John Schinella also, since he was in the Pontiac Design Studio also around the same time. AH! You mention John at 4:08...fantastic, thank you! And 4:36 Here John is! What a great interview sequence!!!
Iconic piece of automotive history. Right up there with The Mustang logo, Jaguar cat emblem etc.
Yep, it’s definitely become one of the most iconic symbols in all of automotive history. Don’t know a single person that couldn’t identify it. No doubt helped by the popularity of Smokey and the Bandit.
Excellent history on this vehicle thank you I had a green 70 455 four speed wish I had that now.😕
Great video! Bill and John are great guys and have fantastic stories. Both of them have come to Trans Am Nationals many times and I love their lectures. I have many items John has signed for me, including my map pocket in my '89 Formula 350.
Thank you for this video! I've owned several Firebirds and Trans Ams, and never knew this story. Very cool!
It’s pretty great as far as design evolution goes. It’s always interesting to hear the story behind something so iconic!
In 1977 there was a dealership in Plymouth, MA that had a brand new Goldenrod Yellow Firebird - rare even back then. I was only 5 years old at the time, but that's the car that got me to fall in love with cars, and the Firebird in particular. I hope whoever bought that beauty enjoyed it.
Never owned a Trans Am...but did have a Firemist/white vinyl interior/rooftop '72 Firebird Formula 400 with 14 inch rear slicks. Was the fastest ponycar that I have ever had.
The other 3 were Camaros from the "Malaise" era. A '77 Type LT (new) a '79 Z28 (used) and an '80 Berlinetta (used).
Wish that I would have known about those '81 Yenko Turbo Z (28s) as I would have driven to wherever they were being modded and paid for one!
PA?
"We kept the bird." Priceless.
" Corvette Summer" clips. Nice touch.
Thanks! Yeah, they really fit the tone of what John Schinella was talking about with the cruising culture.
Enjoyed the video. When I was a kid the guy down the street graduated from Ole Miss and was signed by the NE Patriots. His first purchase after signing was a 1978 TA; beautiful car. Going forward, I'd like to see a video on how the Pontiac Banshee concept car morphed into the C3 "coke bottle" Corvette.
My mom had a White 1984 15th Anniversary TA, it was a great looking car from the exterior the interior was a bit well Plastic with fake plastic rivot/bolts on the dashboard. But damn did it sound great on I-77…heading to the Richfield Coliseum.
Absolute love!!!!! Why does corporate not know already that people like wild stuff?
Loved my first year first generation Firebird. I liked the native bird but first fell in love with the flaming bird on a mid 70s a gorgeous neighbor girl had. I never knew of the first generation until Dad decided to check mine out. 326 2 speed powerglide. Loved it.
Fun to hear,
Fun to learn.
Con’t let go of the past, so that we can inspire the future.
I hope to see &/or own another Pontiac before I die.
Solid work.
Thank you!
I bought a 1973 Formula 400 brand new in 73, that car had a punch, one of my favorite cars that I have owned.
Great story! As a kid I remember my neighbor pulling up with his Trans Am. The bird was the coolest thing. I also remember the sticker bubbled a little and my neighbor trying to work the bubbles out.
Trans am!!! Love this car!!
Agreed!
It's hard to imagine those 70s T/As without the screaming chicken decal but to this day my favorite T/A is the Duke's Brewster green '73 in McQ. Just the small bird on the nose. This is the classiest Trans Am made in my opinion.
I have to agree. The big bird is fun, but the smaller nose bird with the formula hood is the classiest!
It's not a screaming chicken though
I love the fire bird!
Has always been a favourite of mine and a dream car.
Very interesting how the team got the bird going.
Thanks very much for sharing these great stories.
Thanks so much for watching! We really appreciate it!
My mum got a second hand 1973 Pontiac Trans AM in the 80's, as a kid it was awesome going down to Santa Pod raceway for a day out in the UK and I've loved American muscle cars since
Really cool channel. I really enjoyed learning about the history of the hood bird, i love it always have. Also, I didn't know that Norwood was where these cars were made and I lived there for 10 years and grew up in a neighborhood close by. So learned something new today and thats always a plus😂 thanks and stay safe and blessed 🙏
I was 13 years old when I happened upon one of these cars, it left an indelible impression on me which lasts till this day, so a big thank you to those that bought it to fruition and many thanks for creating this documentary. 👍
Couldn't agree more! Thanks for the comment and the support!
Awesome video 💯💯 my pops and I have a 2002 WS6 TA now. My pops had a 70 firebird back in the day as well. Wish the Pontiac brand would come back.
In 1975 I was 11 and I had a neighbour around the corner (here in Melbourne Australia) that had both a red and a silver Trans Am. He must’ve had really deep pockets. I’d see them very occasionally as I rode past on my bike. I just loved the look of those cars. In 2013 I bought my Stellar Blue, early build, 1975 400 4speed Trans Am and absolutely love that hood scoop and light blue bird emblem. Not to mention the sound of that V8. Dreams really do come true. 👍
Keep dropping videos it really helps understand the what happend as a younger person that likes cars it keeps the knowledge being passed around can you do a Dodge daytona and the plymouth superbird please I think it would be a good edition to the channel
We actually have a SuperBird video coming out next! Stay tuned.
Good article. I will always remember the hood bird being called the "Screaming Chicken." I had an '84 Trans Am at one time, there was a mini hood bird on the Ram Air scoop.
Very nice! What color was it?
@@OriginalMotorCar My 84 HO was red with a black bird and stripes
Very cool new channel great work on this video! Looks like you are definitely on to something with the viewership this video has, and as a Pontiac guy really appreciate the interviews and information! Keep up the good work!
Very informative about the story of the hood bird know as the Firebird Phoenix
As a former owner of a Trans Am GTA, in our circles we never referred to it as Phoenix, instead it’s either “Screaming Chicken” or “Fire Chicken”. It’s because of its American Indian origin.
Yeah, it goes by many names, but it’s an unmistakable icon in automotive history!
That 72 pearl white with the blue bird on the hood is one of favorites!
Thanks for sharing this interesting story! I own a 71 455ho trans am and dive it often
REALLY nice video! Many photos I have never seen before, along with great info from the very folks responsible. I guess I gotta subscribe now, don't I? :-)
I had a 79 Trans Am Silver Anniversary Edition. The bird was phenomenal - very large, even went onto the fenders. No small bird here.
Those 79 SEs were awesome!
I bought a new fire bird with hood painting in 1979. my favorite car of all time.
That black and gold one and the red one look awesome. I would love to have one
My mom made these, along with many other automotive transfers, like woody sides of the classic station wagons. My name is Bicycle Bob and I approved this message and working around those chemicals gave her cancer.
Thanks and extremely sorry for your loss .
My dad had a 81, 301 turbo rts. White with beige interior. Great highway cruiser.
Love the "Screaming Chicken" I've got a 1979 Y84 Special Edition Black and Gold 400 4spd that I need to restore. My 1st car in High School was a 79 Y84 SE B&G with the 403 Automatic. I loved that car but it didn't survive my teenaged years. Totaled it before I graduated HS.
Interesting to know the story behind the bird! I've been a fan of the Firebirds since I was a kid. They just looked better than the Camaros and Mustangs to me. And I liked that they were a little less common than the Mustangs and Camaros. I've had 2 of them. My second one, which was a 97 Formula model, I got a Firebird decal myself and put it on. It wasn't quite as big as the decal on the 70s models, but it still made mine stand out among the others on the road from the 90s era that didn't have the decal.
This was an awesome peice of GM history. Thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks so much for watching!
Such a great story. The upcoming generation can find a great takeaway from this. Stepping out and finding new ideas isn't easy and you will face adversity, but believe in yourself and push through. You may be the next great idea instead of settling for remaking something that is already established. If you haven't found your opportunity, you haven't looked around enough corners.
Our maroon 86 TA had a black outline onlyone. Our white 85 had the same design but in a silver\grey. Loved the bird.
Nice work on this video. Looking forward to more content. 👍🇨🇦
This was cool! I always wondered about this. My Dad worked for the GM plant Anderson, IN in the late 70's early 80's. He started on the "line" and worked his way up to Plant Manager, that was pretty cool in itself. One day he brought home the Firebird resin pieces that go on the outside by the window. I was a kid with little or no interest in cars at the time. I wasn't sure what to do with them. By this time he was remarried (parents divorced around '80) I was visiting him at his "other" home and instead of taking them home with me when I left, I just gave them to my step-sister. I never saw them again! Oh, I wish I had those NOW!!! UGH!!
That's an impressive career for your dad! Plant managers had a LOT of responsibility!
@@OriginalMotorCar Yes and this was in the 80's. My uncle (on my mom's side) and I were having a conversation about that. My uncle said-"Do you know how much your dad was making?" I had no clue. "about $25 an hour." Now I understand how we could afford a brick house (we had built) on 2 acres of land, just outside of town. It all makes since now! Hmm.
Had a white '75 with the red, black & silver bird. Loved that ride.
So cool, my first new car was a 1978 Pontiac Trans Am in Martinique blue, ordered it with out the bird decal, wanted a 'sleeper' looking car, had no t-tops, no a/c, 4 spd manual, WS6 pkg, & no radio.
Hi Drew! I love the hood bird. My '84 Norwood Trans Am has the optional decal. Keep up the videos! Firebirds forever!!!
Thanks for the support! Send us a pic to hello@originalmotorcar.com. Would love to see it!!!
Cool, I'm a big time TA lover and former owner the Bird is what has always made the car for me
It really does make the car!
GREAT VIDEO! Thank you for this. Keep up the great work.
Thanks so much! Glad you liked it! We have some more great content in the works!
My brother had the 75 Trans Am with white and Blue bird. I loved that car
White and blue is classic trans am!
@@OriginalMotorCar sad story about the car may he RIP .
I grew up in Norwood. Everyday on the way to and from practice I walked passed the storage lot. Man I wanted one so bad!
That’s cool! I can only imagine seeing all those Camaros and Firebirds as a kid!
I miss Pontiac cars !!! I loved the hood bird as soon as I seen it . Back in 1976 ish .
Love the story of the hood bird ,especially the part about the pearl white prototype
Yeah, it's a beautiful car, isn't it?! Is that a Monte Carlo in your profile pic? What year?
I'm a Mopar guy and never cared much for these cars, but that was a great story. The Firebird hood bird was a quintessential and iconic design element, it would seem strange to not have the decal there.
At the end of my first deployment I ordered a Trans Am through an on-site AFEES sales rep. Carousel red, white oxen (if I’m remembering rightly) interior, and 455/4 spd…..bird delete. To be accepted at a dealership in Columbia, SC. Beautiful automobile…had 8 miles on it. I thought the bird decal was a bit over the top and never regretted ordering the car without it. I had lots and lots of fun with that car (bat turns and such) but the wife kept knocking the front air dams off.
I own a 1968 Firebird 400 and a 1971 Trans Am 455HO. I was impressed by this video the first time I saw it; in fact I shared the details of the origin of the First Gen and Second Gen Firebird logos with my wife. I always suspected the First Gen was of American Indian origin but was surprised to learn that the Second Gen came from a Tiffany vase design! In fact I took a photo of the vase to share with the guys in my Pontiac Club. Even though it's early in the video the origin of the graphic design concepts are discussed, that is my favorite part. The lighting discussion at the end is interesting too on how the bird was design retained and offered on the 73's - 81. I've been a Firebird owner for 46 years going back to my 1972 Firebird Formula 400... keep up the great stories!
Thanks so much for sharing your story with us, and sharing this story with others! Can't thank you enough. Would love to see your '68 and '71? Do you still own your '72 Formula 400?
In Europe you do not see this cars often. Netherlands, must be late 80's. I was a kid. My mom sometimes took me and my brother and sister to a larger city to buy clothing. Next to a xxx shop, in front of a tiny parking garage. There was a black car. It had a golden bird on the hood. I was sold. I had never seen such a car and the bird was incredibly awesome. I will never forget.
Is there any way to know what the exact take rate was for the hood bird? I've never seen a Trans-am without it.
I'd love to know more about the decal process at Lordstown in the late 70's ' Formula' Sunbirds, Monza 'Spyder' Olds Starfire 'Firenza' and Buick Nighthawk, and more!
Subscribed. This channel is going to blow up.
We hope you’re right! Thanks for the support!
It's interesting how the first generation Firebird used a native American bird emblem, which is actually the Thunderbird. The Firebird and the legend of the Firebird isn't even native American at all.
The Phoenix or firebird originates from ancient Greek mythology. However, some Native American tribes may have adopted the Phoenix or firebird as a symbol or incorporated it into their culture through modern cultural exchange.
I had a 77 Firebird, and I actually made my own bird for the hood, keeping in a similar style but sweeping the wings even further towards the mirrors (more like flames) and tapering into a stripe that went along the body towards the tail. I miss that car.
photos?
@@Iamivana1 I really wish I had some. I only had 2, one of them was with my girlfriend at the time and when we broke up I tossed the pic, and the other one... I should look for that, probably in my sea trunk.
When I was a kid of 20, I had a 75 Stellar Blue TA, 400 4 speed. No hood bird, it had a trans am decal on the spoiler and 400 on the shaker but otherwise no other decals. That was sweet... At the same time my Father had a an Atlantis Blue 79 TA 403 auto, that one had a bird of course.
I had a silver 1975 Trans Am, a yellow '76 TA, a blue '78. and a silver '79 10th Anniversary TA. All had the big bird on the hood.
What a story, I love American cars from the 1970s to 1980s, they were probably the best of times 👍👍👍 bravo
My step dad was one of those tote the note dealers when this car came out. I told him, as a kid, that he should buy and sell the Trans Ams and he thought it was a dumb idea but he grabbed a black one and made good money....next thing you know we had gone through multiple colors of these cars and ir was the first car i ever tried to sneak out. I was in the 7th or 8th grade and had visions of how kewl i would be driving around. Damn... those are some good memories
Thanks for sharing the memories! Those hood birds were definitely an acquired taste. Took some getting used to, but once you did, it was hard to imagine a world without them!
Thanks for sharing the memories! The hod bird was definitely an acquired taste! But once you got used to it, it was hard to image a world without them!
What was the 27,274 on the windshield of that car? was that how many that were build that year?