Factory specifications, fluid capacities, torque values, EPA fuel economy and the federal safety record for the 1980 Phoenix.
The 1980 Pontiac Phoenix Electric emerged as one of General Motors’ earliest forays into mass-market electrification, built on the compact X-body platform shared with its gasoline-powered siblings yet distinguished by its all-electric powertrain. Designed as a two-door hatchback or four-door sedan, the Phoenix Electric relied on a bank of lead-acid batteries to deliver its modest but groundbreaking range, reflecting the technological constraints of the era. While its limited production run and experimental nature meant it never achieved widespread adoption, this model year occupies a pivotal—if flawed—place in the Phoenix’s history, serving as a testament to early EV development rather than a benchmark of reliability. Its legacy lies not in durability but in its role as a stepping stone, illustrating both the ambitions and limitations of 1980s automotive innovation.
Engine, drivetrain, dimensions and economy.
| Overall length | 182.3 in |
| Overall width | 69.3 in |
| Overall height | 52 in |
| Wheelbase | 104.7 in |
| Curb weight | 2526 lb |
Owner-reported issues, recalls, investigations and service bulletins on record with NHTSA — an unfiltered look at what owners actually experience.
Showing 2 of 8 campaigns on record for this vehicle.
THE STEERING GEAR MOUNTING PLATE ON THE INVOLVED VEHICLES MAY DEVELOP FATIGUE CRACKS AT HIGH MILEAGE WHICH WOULD ALLOW THE STEERING GEAR ATTACHMENT TO BECOME LOOSE. IF THIS CONDITION EXISTS, THE DRIVER MAY NOTICE… Remedy: THE DEALER WILL INSTALL AN IMPROVED TYPE OF STEERING GEAR MOUNTING BRACKET WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
THE AUTOMATIC COOLER LINE HOSES ON SOME OF THE SUSPECT VEHICLES MAY CONTAIN MATERIAL VOIDS, WHICH COMBINED WITH A HIGH THERMAL EXPANSION AT ELEVATED TEMPERATURES, COULD RESULT IN HOSE FAILURE AND TRANSMISSION FLUID… Remedy: THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE COOLER LINE HOSES USING HOSES WITH KEVLAR BRAIDED REINFORCEMENT.
Decode factory build data for a specific vehicle by VIN.
Cross-vehicle references for the kinds of data on this page.
NHTSA lists 8 recall campaign(s) for this model year. Check your specific vehicle by VIN.