Image of 1987 Pontiac Sunbird, Note: These illustrations use artistic license and may differ from actual historical models.

Rediscovering the 1987 Pontiac Sunbird: A Compact Icon

The 1987 Pontiac Sunbird is a testament to the era of bold style and innovation. Born from the stables of General Motors, this compact car made its mark as a versatile and stylish option for those seeking efficiency without sacrificing personality. As a member of the J-body family, the Sunbird shared its platform with siblings like the Chevrolet Cavalier, but it carved out its own niche with distinctive Pontiac flair. A unique fact that might pique your interest: the Sunbird line was one of the few to offer turbocharged engines in a compact car during its time, making it a sleeper hit among performance enthusiasts.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1987 Pontiac Sunbird is a product of its time, featuring sharp lines and an aerodynamic profile that was all the rage in the '80s. The pop-up headlights and sleek grille added to its sporty demeanor. Inside, occupants were greeted with a straightforward dashboard and controls, with an emphasis on driver-centric ergonomics. Materials ranged from durable fabrics to plush velours, reflecting the era's tastes. Technological features included electronic fuel injection and optional power accessories, which were quite advanced for its class at that time. The color palette offered vibrant choices such as Bright Red and Medium Maui Blue Metallic, with white being a popular pick for its clean look. Body styles included coupe, sedan, convertible, and wagon variants, with the convertible being particularly sought after for its open-air cruising capability.

Historical Significance

The 1987 Sunbird stood out for offering an affordable entry into the sporty compact segment. Its introduction of a turbocharged engine option in later models set it apart from many competitors and hinted at a future where small-displacement forced induction engines would become mainstream. This model year also continued to solidify Pontiac's reputation for creating cars with an edge in style and performance within their respective categories.

Performance and Handling

Performance-wise, the '87 Sunbird wasn't a powerhouse by today's standards but offered respectable figures for its time. The turbocharged 1.8-liter engine could propel the car from 0-60 mph in under 10 seconds—a notable feat for an economy-oriented model. Handling was characterized by predictable front-wheel-drive dynamics, with power steering providing adequate feedback. The ride quality was comfortable enough for daily commutes while still firm enough to convey a sporty intent. Drivers often reminisced about the throaty hum of the turbo spooling up, adding excitement to each acceleration.

Ownership Experience

As a daily driver, the Sunbird was reliable and economical. It found popularity among young professionals and families alike who appreciated its practicality meshed with Pontiac's sportier image. Maintenance was generally straightforward, making it accessible for DIY enthusiasts or less costly for those relying on professional service. Parts availability remained strong due to shared components with other GM models.

Fun Facts

In terms of trivia, some special editions like the GT Turbo are rare finds today that stir up interest among collectors. While not known for breaking speed records, this model did contribute to record sales figures for Pontiac during its production years. Despite common criticisms regarding interior space compared to larger contemporaries, it maintained a loyal following.

Collector's Information

Today's collector market sees varying values for the 1987 Pontiac Sunbird based on condition, mileage, and rarity—with convertibles generally fetching higher prices due to their desirability and lower production numbers. While exact production figures are elusive, estimates suggest tens of thousands were produced across all body styles. Values range widely from a few thousand dollars for well-used examples to potentially over ten thousand for pristine or turbocharged variants.

Conclusion

The 1987 Pontiac Sunbird may not have rewritten history books but certainly left an indelible mark on those who experienced its charm first-hand. With its blend of style, practicality, and available performance options, it encapsulates an era when compact cars began to step out of their utilitarian shadows into more exciting territories—a legacy worth remembering.

1987 Pontiac Sunbird Automatic brake pedal pad fits '78-88 GM A, Spec A, G Body-CB 101-DCB 101-D replaces the automatic brake pedal pad on many 1978-1988 General Motors A, Spec A and G body models. Also fits many 1982-1991 GM J, L, N and P body models. 4-1/2" wide X 2-1/2" long. Each

1987 Pontiac Sunbird Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide-M 30Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide. Sold by the foot

1987 Pontiac Sunbird Windshield Reveal Molding, 82-92 GM F, 82-88 GM A, 82-89 GM J, 85-91 GM N Bodies-VWS 1967-LWindshield Reveal Molding, 82-92 GM F, 82-88 GM A, 82-89 GM J, 85-91 GM N Bodies, Each.