Hello, I just obtained this 1989 firebird not too long ago to do a project with. It came preloaded with a JDM turbo and a few other performance mods (Which were not optimized or installed correctly and the turbo was blown) I bought the car knowing that it would be a pain to fix. Not running condition and managed to get it to run.. I know very little about it other than that the VIN on the registration doesn't match the car (NOT STOLEN, I CHECKED!!) and it has wraparound spoiler formula 350 written on the doors asymmetrical bulge hood (Which I hate!) and trimmings inside that say performance sound and suspension (which would point to it being formula model). Everything screams formula 350, yet the VIN starts with 1G2FS2188KL Which literally means that its a BASE firebird from van nuys plant with an l98 350 v8.... But.... When I ran the vin to check if stolen it ALSO came up as a formula model... So I know its a firebird.. Anyone else have this issue? Perhaps the vin check for information was incorrect?? Does anyone know how to check if the suspension is formula 'quality' or whatever? Also the car has power windows locks mirrors rear defrost AC (before turbo) cruise control and power steering

PS: End goal is ls7 swap with TT or 105mm ST sleeper style :-)

 

There were no 350 TPI base birds to my understanding. (happy to be corrected, mind you)

The bulge hood is amazing, btw. <3

 

Thanks for the quick response, Yea.. Idk why it comes up as base. It's just weird. and I can't stand asymmetry.. personal preference :P I love the car though! Fun drive and fast (When it's not failed on by multiple mechanics..) Can't wait to install a new turbo xD

 

You cannot tell if a Firebird is a Formula (or if a Trans Am is a GTA) directly from the VIN. The fifth digit will be "S" for Firebirds and for Formulas, or "W" for Trans Ams and GTAs. The only way to tell a Formula or GTA is from the RPO sheet.

To the best of my knowledge, there were no base Firebirds with a 350. That eighth digit being an "8" shows that the TPI 350 came with the car. My initial assessment is that yes, you have a Formula.

 

Hey, Thanks! So the site I used was a little off. I was really scratching my head at that one! Well, at least now I know for sure what model it is and whether or not I will run into issues trying to redo the suspension (not that I think it will matter because I plan on redoing the whole setup). All things in good time!

 

Yup, you have a formula 350. In the console you may or may not still have the rpo code decal which will tell what options it came with.
The hood is one of the best design features on the formula. IMO

 

I still have the original. Keep it in case I spin out like a mustang driver or something :P but I like the GTA and Trans Am hood (Especially the older shaker hoods!!). I have to say I did like having the vent though.. So.. interesting thing to try. I mentioned I plan to go with TT setup on this build, Imagine the GTA vents up near the window being active exhaust running rich? xD That is in the works! Fire-Breathing-Firebird! just.. Rain seems to be the downfall.. How to configure to avoid rust and water into turbos?? Flaps?? Or could run DC motor to open / close w/ ign switch slider style so noone will see ugly flaps.. Thoughts?