Finding the right Firebird FF14 can be a challenge, as they are a limited production supercar with high demand. However, with some research and persistence, they can be obtained. In this article, we will explore the different options for getting your hands on the coveted FF14.
New from a Dealership
The most straightforward way to get a new FF14 is directly from an authorized Firebird dealership. However, demand dramatically outpaces supply for these vehicles, so expect to join a long waitlist. Some dealerships require deposits just to get on the list. And when your name comes up, be prepared to pay full MSRP or above.
Very few FF14s are allocated to each dealer. So you may need to contact dealerships across the country or even in Canada. Realistically, the wait time for a new FF14 could stretch 2-5 years depending on the dealership. But if you have your heart set on a brand new example with the full warranty, going through a dealer is the way to go.
Pros:
- Get a brand new FF14 direct from the factory
- Full manufacturer’s warranty and support
- Wide configuration options
- Low miles
Cons:
- Extremely long wait times
- Limited allocations
- Pay full MSRP or above
- No choice on colors/options
Order from Factory
Some buyers choose to contact the factory directly and place a custom order for their FF14. This ensures you get the exact color, options, and configuration you want. However, you’ll need to front a large deposit, typically $5,000 – $10,000 or more.
Order time can be 12-18 months or longer before the car is delivered. You’ll need to pay the balance when it arrives at the dealer. Pricing is MSRP, but some dealers may add market adjustments or required add-ons.
Pros:
- Get the exact FF14 you want
- Still gets manufacturer warranty
- Lower miles than pre-owned
Cons:
- Very long build time
- Large upfront deposit required
- Still may pay over MSRP
- No guarantees on delivery date
Exotic Car Dealers
Some high-end exotic car dealers get FF14 inventory through auction, trade-ins, or private acquisition. Their prices are usually marked up over MSRP, but you may be able to get one faster than waiting through a mainstream dealer.
Exotic dealers source FF14s from across the country, so selection is usually better. You can sometimes find rare colors or options. Expect to pay $30,000+ over MSRP, but you may get the car much quicker than ordering new.
Pros:
- Faster acquisition time
- Better selection and availability
- Still gets some warranty coverage
Cons:
- Pay large premium over MSRP
- Higher miles than new
- Less factory warranty remaining
- May still wait several months
Classified Listings
Some FF14s can be found through online classified ads from private sellers. This option takes diligence to find the right car, but you can sometimes get one fairly quickly. Pricing is usually over MSRP, but you may find deals.
Look at listings on sites like AutoTrader, Cars.com, eBay Motors, and enthusiast forums. Reaching out to online Firebird communities can help locate owners selling their cars.
Be sure to carefully vet each car, get a pre-purchase inspection, and check maintenance records. Try to meet the seller in-person and take a test drive when possible.
Pros:
- Quicker purchase time
- No waitlists
- More negotiation on price
- Can get barely used examples
Cons:
- Selection varies greatly
- No factory warranty
- Risk of buying untrustworthy cars
- May still pay over MSRP
Firebird Forums
Dedicated Firebird forums and communities are a great resource to find FF14s for sale. Owners often post their cars when they decide to sell.
Some good forums to check are:
- FFCarForum.com
- TeamFirebird.net
- LS1Tech.com
- TransAmCountry.com
Forums allow you to connect directly with owners, see photos, get details on service history, and ask questions before buying. Pricing depends on condition, miles, and options.
Pros:
- Connect directly with owners
- Can view maintenance records
- More niche selection
- Fair prices when buying from enthusiasts
Cons:
- Limited inventory at any given time
- No factory warranty
- Need to vet sellers carefully
- May still pay above MSRP
Firebird Clubs
Active Firebird clubs and organizations are another avenue to find FF14s for sale. These include:
- International Firebird Club
- POCI (Pontiac Oakland Club International)
- GTOAA (GTO Association of America)
- Local and regional Firebird clubs
Members often post their cars for sale internally before listing them publicly. You may be able to find a well-maintained car owned by an enthusiast through a club. Some may negotiate pricing with serious buyers.
Pros:
- Passionate enthusiast owners
- Often well-maintained
- Reasonable pricing
- Can view service history
Cons:
- Very limited inventory
- No factory warranty
- Membership may be required
- Still likely over MSRP
Firebird Events
Large Firebird events can be places to find FF14s for sale. Owners may bring extra cars to sell, or you can walk the parking areas looking for “for sale” signs.
Some major events to check include:
- POCI Convention
- GTOAA Nationals
- Pontiac Tri-Power Nationals
- Trans Am Nationals
Deals can be found as enthusiasts sell off duplicates from their collection. Inspect cars carefully, and try to take a test drive. Bring tools to do a pre-purchase inspection if possible.
Pros:
- Huge selection in one place
- Owners may give deals to fellow enthusiasts
- Test drive opportunities
- Can inspect closely
Cons:
- Selection varies year-to-year
- No title transfer at events
- No warranty
- Travel required
Auctions
Some FF14s do go to public auction, often through salvage companies or government agencies. Auctions like Mecum, Barrett-Jackson, or smaller regional ones may also have examples.
Auctions carry risk as you can’t test drive or thoroughly inspect cars beforehand. But you can sometimes get FF14s below market value if less knowledgeable bidders are participating.
Set a max bid based on proper valuation. Factor in post-sale inspection, transport, and repair costs before bidding.
Pros:
- Buy below market value
- Thrill of bidding process
- Some auction houses offer post-sale inspections
Cons:
- No test drives or inspection before bidding
- All sales final
- Risk of undisclosed problems
- Additional fees add up quickly
Conclusion
Finding a Firebird FF14 takes dedication and patience, but your dream car is out there. New inventories may free up at dealers in coming years. But contacting dealers now gets you on lists for future allocations.
Enthusiast communities like forums and clubs offer the best balance of speed, transparency, and fair pricing when buying pre-owned. Building connections with other owners often leads to off-market opportunities.
While no path is easy, time and persistence are your best allies for getting your hands on the incredible FF14. With determination, you can soon be driving your very own Firebird!