1968 did not see many changes to the Firebird. Pontiac implemented a new multi-leaf and staggered shock absorber system, which improved rear-axle control. One of the major changes for the Firebird was the dropping of the 326 V8 and in place was the 350 V8. This effected all Pontiacs as well.

The Magnificent Five was back again for 1968. The Base Firebird could be had with the 175 hp OHC six. The Sprint included the 4-barrel 215 hp OHC six. New was the Firebird 350 and Firebird HO, with the 265 hp and 320 hp 350 V8. Next was the Firebird 400 which could be had with the 330 hp 400 V8 as standard with options of the 400 HO at 335 hp and the Ram Air 400 at the same 335 hp (underrated). Mid year the Ram Air II replaced the Ram Air 400 and it put out 340 hp. This same engine put our 366 hp in the GTO, the difference was mainly due to GM's 10 lbs to 1 hp non-racing stand. Many learned quickly how to adjust the throttle linkage to bring instant horsepower to this engine

Visual Changes

Changes for 1968 were are hardly noticeable and not really changes but refinements that never made it to production the year before. On the inside the changes included redesigned door panels, new expanded vinyl seat inserts for custom trim, and burled woodgrain trim on the centers of the dash and console. The exterior for the 1968 Firebird saw the lost its side ventilation windows now known as Astro-Ventilation. To meet new Federal regulations the Firebird now had wrap around front turn signals (safety side-markers) and the Pontiac crest for rear side markers. Also gone for 1968 was the Rally I wheel, however the Rally II was still an option for the Firebird. Production for 1968 was up, for a total of 107,112 units.

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This Home Page was created Sunday, January 05, 1997
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