In a 1968 Car and Driver comparison test, a Firebird 400 HO bested a 390-cid Javelin, a 390 Mustang and 390 Cougar, a Camaro SS 396, and a 340 Barracuda. Not only was the Poncho quickest of the bunch, but its engine was the smoothest and its handling the friendliest.
"For sheer enjoyment and confidence behind the wheel," said Car and Driver, "the Firebird was almost in a class by itself."
"An ignorant man thinks he knows everything, a wise man knows he doesn't."