Customer Reviews

Illustrated Buyer's Guide Firebird (Motorbooks International Illustrated Buyer's Guide)

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I enjoyed this book very much, even though I've pretty much just cares for 4th generation Firebirds (and the 91s and 92s of the 3rd). But I must say that I expected a FULL coverage of the modells of the 4th generation. Did I find it - NO!. The Comp T/A hasn't been included in the book, maybe the author considered it to be a so special project car that it isn't a Trans Am. But the Firehawk and the Ram Air cars has been included in the book, thanks to all.

I am glad to have this book in my collection. Very detailed year by year. Nice factory photos. Much better than the firebird red book. Lists options available, and most of the special editions. Even if you think you know it all, You will learn something you did not know about these cars...

As all "Illustrated Buyer Guides" so is this one a top notch resource for the numbers and detail guy or gal. One problem is that the version is getting outdated. Covers only up to the 1998 production year. Now that the f-body died, why not update it one more time for all enthusiasts. otherwise great book !!!

On the one hand I think it could be a very useful tool when looking to purchase a used Firebird. However I found it confusing when the Author (Gunnell) on Page 183 states, "Starting with cars built to 1987 specifications, Firebird buyers were offered more models, more performance, more aerodynamic styling and more quality." But he gives only 1 & 2 stars for those cars built in 1987, and gives 4 stars to the 86 Trans Am with TPI see page 146.
I know of no one who would choose a car with less quality & less performance. So either he likes the 86 Trans Am better for some odd reason, Or he is just using words to make the book thicker. The 87 & 86 Trans Am's with TPI were essentially the same, with some minor upgrades.

Besides the critisizm, I would suggest this book that wants to do some good research, I would dismiss his opinion however.

This book provides an excellent overview of the subject. Well written

Mr. Gunnell's Firebird Buyer's Guide is an excellent source of information on Firebirds, as well as an informative, practical guide to puchasing these collectible muscle cars.

IT NEVER CEASES TO AMAZE ME HOW SOME PEOPLE CAN PASS THEMSELVES OFF AS EXPERTS IN A FIELD THAT THEY OBVIOUSLY KNOW NOTHING ABOUT. MR GUNNELL POSES AS AN AUTHORITY USING HIS POSITION AT KRAUSE PUBLICATIONS AS A SHIELD. IN REALITY HE JUST REGURGITATES WHAT OTHERS HAVE WRITTEN BEFORE HIM.