Representing one of the most exciting performance cars of Pontiac's
late-1990s muscle-car resurgence, this 1999 Pontiac Firebird Trans
Am WS6 Convertible combines aggressive styling, open-air driving
and the legendary LS1 V8 with the involvement of a 6-speed manual
transmission. Finished in striking Bright Red with a contrasting
black convertible top, this exceptionally low-mile WS6 currently
displays just 19,769 miles.
The WS6 Ram Air Performance and Handling Package transformed an
already potent Trans Am into Pontiac's premier Firebird performance
offering. Visually, the WS6 is immediately recognizable by its
aggressive functional Ram Air hood with twin forward-facing air
inlets, distinctive 17-inch wheels and unmistakable
fourth-generation Trans Am bodywork. Combined with the Bright Red
finish and black power convertible top, the result is one of the
most recognizable American performance-car designs of the era.
Under the hood is GM's celebrated 5.7-liter LS1 V8, factory rated
at 320 horsepower and 345 lb-ft of torque in WS6 specification.
Introduced to the Firebird line for 1998, the all-aluminum LS1
represented a major technological leap for Pontiac's performance
flagship and helped establish the fourth-generation Trans Am as a
legitimate competitor to far more expensive sports cars.
Backing the LS1 is the highly desirable Tremec T56 6-speed manual
transmission, putting the driver in complete control of the V8's
broad powerband. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a
limited-slip rear differential, maintaining the traditional
front-engine, rear-wheel-drive formula that defined the Trans Am
throughout its history.
The WS6 package was far more than an appearance upgrade. Its
functional Ram Air induction system provided the LS1 with a
freer-flowing source of outside air, while performance-oriented
suspension tuning gave the car sharper handling and a more
aggressive road feel. The package also included 17-inch wheels and
performance tires, helping make the WS6 one of Pontiac's most
capable production performance cars of the period.
Four-wheel power disc brakes provide confident stopping
performance, while power steering and the performance suspension
give the WS6 responsive handling without sacrificing its ability to
serve as a comfortable road car. Drop the power-operated black
convertible top and the combination of open-air driving, a manual
gearbox and the soundtrack of an LS1 V8 creates an experience that
few modern performance cars can duplicate.
The driver-focused cockpit carries the Trans Am's performance
character inside, with deeply contoured bucket seats, a
leather-wrapped steering wheel, center console-mounted 6-speed
shifter and a full complement of instrumentation. Power accessories
and air conditioning provide the comfort expected from Pontiac's
flagship performance model while retaining the unmistakable
atmosphere of a late-1990s American muscle car.
With only 19,769 miles, this WS6 stands apart from the many
fourth-generation Firebirds that accumulated heavy mileage or were
extensively modified during their lives. Low-mile examples
retaining the appearance and character that made these cars special
have become increasingly desirable as enthusiasts recognize the
significance of the LS1-powered Firebird era.
Rarity adds another layer to the appeal. Only 467
regular-production WS6 Trans Am convertibles were produced for the
1999 model year, making the open-top WS6 a considerably less common
sight than its coupe counterpart. Combine that limited production
with the LS1 V8, 6-speed manual transmission, Bright Red exterior,
black convertible top and fewer than 20,000 miles, and this Trans
Am represents a particularly compelling configuration from
Pontiac's final generation of Firebirds.
The fourth-generation Trans Am was unapologetically Pontiac:
dramatic styling, a big American V8, rear-wheel drive and serious
performance. The WS6 pushed that formula even further, and today
these cars represent an increasingly collectible chapter from the
closing years of Pontiac performance.
Whether destined for weekend cruising, local shows, a Pontiac
collection or simply enjoyed the way it was intended, this 1999
Pontiac Firebird Trans Am WS6 Convertible offers a rare opportunity
to experience an LS1-powered, 6-speed, open-top Trans Am with
remarkably low mileage.
For more information, contact LRA Auto Museum & Sales today at
215-781-3790 or email us at
[email protected].
