I'm planning on buying an 87 Formula Firebird while my Chevelle is in the shop, and I was curious if I could change the body style to that of a 79 T/A with relative ease. I'm assuming you may have input on possible collector value of a formula firebird, and reasons to not change it even if it is possible, and I'd like to hear it all. The Chevelle is my baby, this is will be my driver, I don't plan on doing any extensive restoration or customizing work on the firebird any time soon, but if there's not going to be a lot of value in the formulas anyway, and it's a simple clip or panel change to convert to the 79 style, please let me know. All input is appreciated.

Thanks.

I hope this isn't being ignored because it's not a Chevy, at least it's GM. I'm not gonna sink low enough to buy a rustang, I'd just like to know how possible this is. I realize there're gonna be differences between 2nd and 3rd generations, but I'd think something would be possible? :confused:

Being there is MAJOR body diferences between the the 2 birds your talking about I think you'd be hard pressed to pull the deal off. I am betting there are no interchangeable body pieces, or even suspension beyond brake setups. Why not just buy a 79? If you're looking for a driver I bet one could had for less than trying to do you ill-fated swap. The other thing you could do is if you can find a donor formula transplant the motor/tranny in a 79. Good Luck

They are two totally differnet cars, with no interchangable parts. :confused:

Thanks.

I think I might just grab a 77-79 if at all possible. If anyone knows of a good driver for sale near ohio and wants to let me know about it, please do.

garrison, as far as the 77-79 t/a goes there are two different nose and front bumper styles. ace841 is correct about 2nd and 3rd gen components. it wouldnt work. the formula was between the base firebird/esprit and the trans am in terms of options. formula was the affordable model but with the option to get some of the features a t/a would standard such as spoiler, bigger engine and handling package. while a base firebird didnt have those options

77-78
the 78 was basically a cary over of 77. heres a a few pics.
http://www.firebirdgallery.com/2nd%20Gen%20Images/77ta17.jpg
http://www.firebirdgallery.com/2nd%20Gen%20Images/78ta36.1.jpg
79
http://www.firebirdgallery.com/2nd%20Gen%20Images/79ta23.1.jpg

the 70-73 t/a is more rare than the 74-81(many of the black and gold SE "bandit" t/a models) if thats a concern to you. but a numbers matching early first gen you be starting around mid to high teens. you should have good luck finding a numbers matching 77-79 t/a at a more reasonable price, starting around 7000, but i have seen lower. if this is a driver maybe numbers matching isnt a concern to you? i kno many 77-79 trans ams for sale and i have some great 2nd gen firebird and t/a connections. if youd like any help with your search and finding ones near you, feel free to ask me. hope this helps.

nathaniel