Pontiac's upmarket version of Chevrolet's Camaro ponycar appeared in mid-1967. Brought to market under John Z. DeLorean's watch at Pontiac, the original Firebird offered deluxe accoutrements in addition competitive ponycar performance. From 1967 to '69, Firebird offered an unusual single overhead camshaft inline six, available with a four-barrel. carburetor in Sprint models. Pontiac's 326- and 400-cid engines comprised the V-8 offerings.

Firebird was little changed for ’68, with deleted vent windows and added side-marker lamps among its minor updates. A redesigned SOHC six was touted, while the mid-year 340-hp Ram Air II 400 V-8 reigned as the year's most powerful engine.

The Firebird was restyled for 1969, as was the Camaro. During the year, the first Trans Am Firebird was released. 689 coupes plus eight convertibles were produced. A 400-cid V-8 was standard in Trans Am and Firebird 400 models. The 400 model’s optional Ram Air IV V-8 promised 100 mph quarter-mile acceleration.

The 1967-'69 Firebirds are relatively scarce, especially compared to Camaros of the same vintage. The '69 trades just slightly more often than '67-'68 versions. Genuine ’69 Trans Ams will always be blue-chip Firebirds.