The '80s were strange, to put it mildly. Big hair, loud colors, and superficiality were all the rage. But if you looked hard enough, you could find truly meaningful moments, particularly in the microcosm of the automotive world. EFI was but an awkward puppy in the performance realm; however, its potential was first demonstrated with the release of the intercooled Turbo Buicks and then enhanced by the lighter, more aerodynamic Turbo Trans Ams. Cutting-edge technology, such as coil pack ignition systems and sequential fuel injection/turbochargers, created one of the most efficient domestic motors of its time-not to mention performance that dwarfed its V-8 competition, despite being two cylinders short.
All of these factors helped forge Steven Ciregna's allegiance to the Turbo Trans Am. The Brooklyn, New York native currently owns three TTAs. And when he decided to build a 10-second drag racer he could think of no better platform, as it seems to respond much better to modification, compared with other Third Gen TPI V-8s he has owned. Unfortunately, he couldn't bear the thought of cutting up his fourth TTA (a high 11-second bolt-on car), so he sold it in favor of an '89 GTA. When the decision was made to trade the GTA's V-8 for a turbo V-6, the NYPD mechanic tracked down a short-block from an '87 Grand National and a set of Turbo TA heads to squeeze between the F-body's strut towers. The block was sent to LAB Engine Specialists in Lindenhurst, New York for a .020 overbore, balancing, and installation of billet main caps and a girdle. Once the machine work was finished, the short-block was assembled with the stock crank, rods, and custom JE forged pistons (dished for the smaller combustion chambers on Pontiac heads). LAB also ported and assembled the iron TTA heads with Manley 1.77 intake and 1.50 exhaust valves, K-Motion springs, bronze guides, and titanium retainers. Steven chose a Crane 214/210 duration, .531/.520-inch lift billet hydraulic roller for its aggressive ramp and lift, streetability, and reliable record.
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A PT-70 helps this LC2-powered GTA command the attention of the FAA. A rebuilt stock block, crank, and rods system, with JE forged pistons and ported stock iron TTA heads from LAB Engine Specialists in Lindenhurst, New York, help the GTA take flight with a best of 10.50 at 128 mph. This powerful street combination is fed by an Aeromotive A1000 fuel pump, Accufab billet fuel pressure regulator with -10 feed lines, and Siemens 83-pound injectors. | 
Steven prefers to keep his interior intact, as his 10-second race car sees quite a bit of street duty, as well. To comply with NHRA regulations, though, he has added an 8-point rollcage from Jegs and lightweight Summit Racing seats with RCI 5-point harnesses. With driver, the Third Gen tips the scales at 3,640 pounds. |
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A fiberglass Harwood 3-inch cowl hood helps shed a few pounds, and provides some much-needed venting for the steamy turbo motor. | 
DOT-legal 28x11.5 Hoosier Quick Time Pro slicks mounted on stock 16x8 mesh wheels carry Steven's GTA to and from the track, as well as to Second Place in the 2005 Englishtown Raceway Park Real Street Saturday Night Points Series. He soon hopes to better his two wins and two runners-up in 2005, advance to Division, and possibly even make National finals. |