Trans Am Build: Eric Biran's Passion Project

A Complete Refresh

Few people know the ins and outs of the fourth generation Trans Am as well as Eric Biran. If there is a part to repair or replace on the 98 model, chances are, South Pasadena's eb110americana has done it. Although the effects of his designer touch will be visible at first glance, his extensive rebuild goes well beyond visual modifications. Virtually every mechanical component of the car has been or will be replaced and upgraded. When it's finished, it will feel like an entirely new car.

>>Join the conversation about Eric's 1998 Firebird right here in LS1Tech.

The Beginnings

A life-long Pontiac fanatic, Eric had owned a Bonneville SSEi in his early college years. But when it came time for him to replace it in 2003, he decided to make his move. "I saw this opportune time to finally own the car I had been lusting after since high school." Being a student meant his goal of finding the perfect LS1 powered Trans Am within his budget was going to be a tall order. Ultimately, his search led him to Illinois, where he purchased his dream car and drove it back to California over two days. He believes the car fits him perfectly. "It's indulgently fast, yet reliable and affordable to maintain," Eric raves. "And it not only looks unique, but it also makes you feel that each drive is special." The level of comfort and space it provides while also delivering amazing power are the characteristics that Eric absolutely loves about the Trans Am.

>>Join the conversation about Eric's 1998 Firebird right here in LS1Tech.

For the Love of the Trans Am

Eric cites 80's classics like Smokey & the Bandit and Knight Rider as the sources that ignited his life-long love for the Trans Am. When the fourth generation was introduced in 93, he was hooked. "It looked like a spaceship from the future, a piece of rolling sculpture, a concept car for the street" remembers Eric of his first impression of the 93 Firebird. With the refresh in 98 however, he was originally disappointed. "I actually hated it," Biran says. "It didn't translate well in photos, so I figured it might be time to go back to the Camaro."

When he finally saw one in person though, his mind changed entirely. He fell in love with the new styling, as well as the improved performance, having moved on from the LT1 engine in the earlier models to the new, more powerful, and more reliable LS1. This change of heart set Eric on a mission to find one for himself.

>>Join the conversation about Eric's 1998 Firebird right here in LS1Tech.

Chapter One

When Eric brought his new Firebird back home to southern California, it was configured very much as a grand tourer. It had an automatic transmission, tall 2.73 gears, 12-disk changer, and 16" wheels. Although it was only 5 years old at the time, it had over 100 thousand miles on it. Eric is sure they were all commuter miles and the car had had an easy life. 

His first round of modifications started in 2012. He was contemplating doing an engine rebuild when the idea of upgrading to an LS3 entered his mind. "Why rebuild when you can go for newer and better?" Eric thought. "Afterall, it's only a ton more money, right?"

He started out by giving his car new Sam Strano lowering springs for a 1.25" drop, hollow anti-roll bars, and Koni single-adjustable shocks. Most notably, he upgraded from the 275/40-17 WS-6 wheels to a set 275/30-19 XXRs. 

>>Join the conversation about Eric's 1998 Firebird right here in LS1Tech.

Chapter Two: Powertrain

The second part of the resto/mod process started in 2015 when he stopped driving the car and it is now in its final stages. Eric has been documenting every step of it extensively, taking photos of each session of the build. The most significant upgrade, of course, is the motor. Eric has replaced the LS1 with a new LS3 and mounted the new D&D T56 Magnum 6-speed manual transmission onto it. Other improvements will include TurnOne rebuilt steering rack with MOOG "Problem Solver" inner and outer tie rods, Wilwood slotted 6-piston 14" brake kit for the front wheels, and MWC 9" rear end. In addition, a new ECU, manual pedals, and Flowmaster Super 44 mufflers will be among the many modifications incorporated into the Trans Am.

>>Join the conversation about Eric's 1998 Firebird right here in LS1Tech.

Chapter Two: Aesthetics

From a new Ram Air hood and widening his rear 19" XXR wheels by 1", all the way down to building his own interior trims such as the center console and the steering wheel, Eric's Pontiac will have gone through a bit of a facelift. An automotive design major and an alumnus of the well-known design school, Art Center College of Design, Eric knows a thing or two about the intricacies of automotive proportions and exterior and interior styling. He has been putting his skills to the test redesigning certain aspects of this car to match his personality. 

>>Join the conversation about Eric's 1998 Firebird right here in LS1Tech.

An Experience In Progress

As Eric approaches the final steps toward completing his resto/mod, here at LS1tech.com we are eagerly keeping an eye on his progress. We look forward to following his next steps and bringing you updates as Eric Biran inches closer to the culmination of his passion project and puts the finishing touches on it.

Stay tuned for the next part of this story right here on LS1Tech.com.

>>Join the conversation about Eric's 1998 Firebird right here in LS1Tech.

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