The second-generation debut for the 1970 model year was delayed until February 26, 1970, because of tooling and engineering problems; thus, its popular designation as a 1970½ model, while leftover 1969s were listed in early Pontiac literature without a model-year identification. This generation of Firebirds was available in coupe form only; convertibles disappeared until 1991 after the 1969 model year.

Models
Firebird Base
Firebird Esprit
Firebird Formula
Firebird Trans-Am

Special versions and appearance packages
Formula Appearance Package “W50” (1976–1981) Black-and-Gold Trans Am Pontiac 50th Anniversary Limited Edition (1976) Black-and-Gold Trans Am Special Edition (1977–1978, 1980–1981) Sky Bird Esprit Appearance Package “W60” (1977–1978) Gold Trans Am Special Edition “Y88” (1978) Red Bird Esprit Appearance Package “W68” (1978–1979) Black Trans Am Special Edition “Y84” (1979) Trans Am 10th Anniversary Edition (1979) Yellow Bird Esprit Appearance Package “W73” (1980) Trans Am Turbo Indy Pace Car Edition (1980) Trans Am Turbo NASCAR Pace Car Edition (1981).

Macho Trans-Am (Package offered only by the dealership Mecham Pontiac in Glendale, AZ). Replacing the “Coke bottle” styling was a more “swoopy” body style, while still retaining some traditional elements. The top of the rear window line going almost straight down to the lip of the trunk lid, a look that was to epitomizes F-body styling for the longest period during the Firebird’s lifetime. The new design was initially characterized with a large C-pillar, until 1975 when the rear window was enlarged.