This 1989 Pontiac Firebird Formula is a nicely presented driver with fresh paint and the rare five-speed manual gearbox. The seller reports that it runs and drives well with ice-cold air conditioning, and that it comes with upgraded suspension components. Overall, this looks like an awesome alternative to the classic Fox body that tends to be what most enthusiasts gravitate towards in the affordable muscle car space. The asking price is $16,500, which is definitely at the upper end of the driver-grade market, but I’d argue this one is slightly better than that – and the manual gearbox is a serious bonus given how many of these are equipped with automatics. Find the Firebird here on the Barn Finds classifieds.

The photos aren’t the best, but do reveal that the Firebird does indeed have the rarely seen manual gearbox. I get that most muscle car owners would prefer to have the cruising-friendly automatic installed, but there’s something to be said for having a V8 coupe that you can row yourself. Plus, while the 305 wasn’t the most powerful version of the Firebird, the manual gearbox will wake things up nicely, at least making it feel faster than it is. I would go so far as to say you’d be justified in swapping out the exhaust, too, for something with a little more volume to let that V8 soundtrack sing, which sounds so much better when you’re able to rev-match on the downshifts. The cloth buckets appear to be in good shape, with the rear seat looking largely unused.

The engine bay isn’t overly detailed and it clearly shows the aesthetical impact of having just over 80,000 original miles. Translation: it’s not a show car, and that’s OK. This is a great candidate for driving for a full three seasons if you live somewhere that gets winter, and all year round if you’re fortunate to live where the roads don’t get salted and sanded. Values of third generation Firebirds and Camaros are on the rise, for sure, as the asking price for this one goes to show. But it’s not so high that you’ll be scared to use it, and it sounds like it’s already been repainted so it’s not like you’re risking damage to an original paint car. The seller notes it has been updated with new freeze plugs and a fresh clutch, which should offer years’ worth of reliable cruising.

The exterior looks sharp, especially with the factory red pinstripe and “Formula” graphics on the body. The seller doesn’t specify why it needed a paintjob, and an in-person inspection will be needed to assess the quality of the work. The factory alloy wheels appear to be in outstanding cosmetic condition, and while the tinted windows won’t be to everyone’s liking, they likely helped to keep the interior in fine shape. The Firebird Formula is located in San Jose, California, and the seller notes that it passed California’s stringent smog testing with ease. This looks like a fun driver, and one that won’t lose any value any time soon.