Looks wise the 1980 Firebird was a carryover from 1979.  The big news was the addition of the Turbo 4.9 liter V-8 that was a fitting start for the Firebird in the new decade.  This engine made 210hp, only 10 less than the previous years T/A 6.6 engine with 99 less cubic inches.  The turbo is instantly recognizable by the off center driver's side hood scoop found on Trans Ams and Formulas.  The Turbo Trans Am would pace the Indianapolis 500 this year with a new special edition pace car.  The Black and Gold Special Edition was still available and the Esprit offered a Yellow Bird this year replacing the Red Bird of 1979.  In spite of this sales began declining as the second generation Firebird began to age.   

"Just when you thought the days of exciting, sport performance cars were over...POW!  Firebird goes Turbo!  That's right, Trans Am and Formula are now available as the first turbocharged V-8 production cars of the '80s.  Which allows Pontiac to give you the advantages of a smaller block V-8 with the performance boost of a turbo.  But that's just the beginning of the good news!

Just order your new Trans Am turbofied, and get a specially modified hood.  Plus special available decals.  As with Trans Am, new Formula Firebird is available with the new turbo V-8 and sexy new turbo hood.  The new Esprit shows you can have luxury and sporty performance too.  If you drive a hard bargain, you've picked the perfect year to drive our base-priced Firebird."