One of the unfortunate realities for pop-up headlights is the fact that if they look sleek when not in use, they look in the way when in use. Because of the inward slant on the frame surrounding the 97's lights, the lights while on give the Firebird a look of surprise or insecurity. This is true of most cars with pop-up headlights, like Probes, Stealths, etc. But the 98 has widened the look, so now when the lights are up, the frame seems to frown, as if the Firebird is stalking prey awaiting the order to pounce.

Other differences include the taillights and backup lights. They now have a honeycomb look to them, and better define the back of the car than the 97's. (Which is of course important, considering Firebirds are faster than roughly 95% of production cars sold in America today.) Also I noticed they changed the Firebird symbol, which up to now, had stayed the same since 93. It seems that in the 32 years of Firebird the symbol has only been changed with the birth of a new generation. Maybe this is Pontiac's subtle way of saying this car is vastly different than its predecessor. Some may think that it is wrong, but I am not in that mind frame. The car IS a lot different, and much more aggressive, something Firebird's have always been known for.

One major difference in driving the car is handling. I have driven both a 97 and a 98, and both were impressive, although the 98 was more glued to the ground. It drove well, handled great, and was very easy to drive hard. (My thanks to Christensen Pontiac for letting me DRIVE their only 98 at the time, and I do mean DRIVE.) The 97 was great, but the 98 better still, and with simple innovations and tons of bells and whistles, I was convinced this is the better car.

My one and only complaint with the 98 Firebird is the gas cap cover. Every other car in existence has figured out the advantage of having an inside release for the gas cover. I hope that maybe for 99 they turn a near perfect car into perfection.

By: Flamberge ©1998