This model car we're talking about is based on the classic Pontiac Trans Am Firebird. It belongs to the third generation, which was made from 1982 to 1992. The Pontiac Firebird first hit the streets in 1967, but this third gen was a total game changer in terms of aerodynamics and performance, coming equipped with a lighter chassis and modern engine options compared to its predecessor, the second generation. The designer John De Lorean, who also played a key role in creating the Pontiac GTO, was heavily involved in shaping the very first Firebird models.
The Pontiac Trans Am Firebird was a total icon in the 1980s. Technically, it was ahead of its time, featuring a bunch of engine options, including a 5.0-liter (302 cubic inches) V8 engine with electronic fuel injection. Fun fact: these technologies were initially tested by General Motors engineers and made their way into cars like the Firebird. Coincidentally, 1982 was also the year that "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor rocked the charts globally. Plus, technological advancements like the launch of the Commodore 64, one of the most popular computers back then, set the backdrop for this era.
The model car from Ertl in 1/18 scale is an incredibly accurate replica of the Pontiac Trans Am Firebird. This piece is an important part of collector "Movie-Chris"'s stash. You can really appreciate the meticulous details, like the headlights and that iconic red scanner on the grille. This scanner is instantly recognizable and reminds us of K.A.R.R. from the show Knight Rider. The two-tone paint in black and silver really captures the sporty vibe of the car. The shiny surfaces and clean paint job make this model a cool display piece for sure.
This model is actually a replica of K.A.R.R., which first appeared in the series Knight Rider. The show ran from 1982 to 1986 and followed Michael Knight, played by David Hasselhoff, and his talking car KITT. K.A.R.R. was kind of the "bad guy" version of the hero car, and it showed up in some pretty memorable scenes where it was portrayed as an AI that made some seriously wrong calls. This extra detail makes the model special, especially for fans of the show and collectors of movie replicas.
The awesome wheels have that sharp, edgy design that really resembles the original Trans Am wheels from that generation. If it were a specific wheel model, like the Turbine Wheels or something, that would definitely be worth mentioning. Overall, this Ertl model is super precise and packed with collector-friendly details. The interior, done in a light brown color, is another spot-on recreation of what the originals looked like, especially in that 1/18 scale.