The autocross package gives the Formula a stiffer ride than the basic Firebird -- itself a solid driver -- without becoming kidney-busting. Larger front and rear stabilizer bars, stiffer front and rear springs and control arm bushings and dual adjustable shock absorbers all add to the Formula's rock-solid feel. The result is a car that hugs turns with as much authority as it speeds through the straights.

The car sets up nicely into turns, and the stiffer spring rates do a good job of damping excess body roll. Likewise, compared to less effectively sprung cars, heavy braking results in reduced nosedive, and hard launches from the line produce less rebound.

Get up to speed and the Formula's extra-wide rubber grips the asphalt with authority, making tight cornering possible without fear that the wheels will break away. The antiquated solid rear axle setup displays nervous tendencies, however, especially when driven over uneven surfaces. The more frequent the bumps, the more jittery the back end can become.

The 6-speed works well with the 5.7-liter. Its gears are well-spaced, and the V8's fat torque curve assures ample power through most of the rev range, dropping off only after 5,000 rpm. Working the stock shifter efficiently requires some attention during particularly hard driving. Its long throws tend to bog the shifter when forced and, combined with the Formula's inordinately heavy clutch pedal effort, rush-hour driving turns into a test of endurance -- not to mention a great thigh workout.

As fast as the Formula is, even speed-demons have to slow down once in a while, and it's good to know that it doesn't take much effort to tame the Formula. The same 320 horsepower that propels this beast to 60 mph in just over 5 seconds is all but invisible at low speeds, making it a good daily driver.

The availability of traction control makes it a year-round driver, too. The system works by reducing engine torque and applying individual brakes at the first sign of wheel slippage, at which point the wheel with traction gets more power sent its way. The driver can deactivate the system by pressing a button on the dash. After all, one never knows when the need will arise to muster up a hellacious smoky burnout.

Those interested in a more sedate ride might do well to look elsewhere. Although not too stiff for the driver looking for sporty performance, the Formula's ride is by no means sedan-like.