Schwab Trans Am

1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am

The "Schwab Trans Am" was commissioned by Charles Schwab as the grand prize for the winner of the 2022 Charles Schwab Challenge (won by Sam Burns).

True to Pure Vision's "fictional history" style, the car was designed to look like a factory-special edition that never was, blending high-end luxury with modern performance.

Powertrain & Performance

  • Engine: GM Performance LS3 V8 crate engine.

  • Power: 430 hp and 425 lb-ft of torque.

  • Induction: Custom air intake system designed to integrate with the functional "shaker" hood scoop.

  • Transmission: Bowler Performance 4L70E 4-speed automatic transmission.

  • Exhaust: Custom stainless steel exhaust system with a focus on a refined, muscular tone rather than a raw race sound.

Chassis & Suspension

  • Front Suspension: Modernized with Detroit Speed components, including a specialized front subframe, tubular control arms, and coilover shocks for sports-car handling.

  • Rear Suspension: Detroit Speed QUADRALink rear suspension system, which replaces the factory leaf springs for superior traction and geometry.

  • Brakes: Wilwood 4-wheel disc brakes featuring large rotors and multi-piston calipers, hidden behind the wheels for a "stealth" look.

  • Steering: Modern power rack-and-pinion steering conversion.

Wheels & Tires

  • Wheels: Custom-made 18-inch snowflake wheels by HRE Performance Wheels. These are oversized billet aluminum versions of the classic 15-inch Pontiac design.

  • Tires: Michelin Pilot Sport 4S performance tires.

Exterior & Aesthetics

  • Paint: A custom "Schwab Blue" metallic finish with gold accents.

  • Graphics: The iconic "Screaming Chicken" hood decal was reimagined in a subtle gold and bronze palette to match the Charles Schwab branding.

  • Body: Retains the 1979 four-rectangular-headlight front fascia but with tightened gaps and perfected body lines.

Interior & Tech

  • Theme: Inspired by the Colonial Country Club (home of the tournament) and Charles Schwab’s heritage.

  • Upholstery: Custom tan leather interior with tartan/plaid fabric inserts, a nod to golf tradition and the tournament's "Leonard Trophy" jacket.

  • Gauges: Custom-faced Dakota Digital gauges that maintain a period-correct font but utilize modern electronic precision.

  • Climate: Vintage Air Gen IV climate control system.

  • AR Integration: The car was famously launched with an Augmented Reality (AR) experience that allowed fans to view the mechanical upgrades virtually.