There are several things that can cause this effect. Ignition timing out of set or worn ignition parts being a large factor. Improperly set or worn valve train being another.
That sounds like your timing is off. Adjust it at the distributor cap with a timing light.
spark plug gap, gas/air mixture on carb.
If it backfires thru the intake/carb the spark arrester prevents this. It is the metal looking air filter on carburetor...
the engine is out of time or the valves are not adjusted right An engine backfires through the carburetor because it's lean. Check all vacuum connections as well as the gasket mating surfaces. Be sure you have the correct parts. Consult any instructional materials available for this particular carburetor.
Try Harley Sportster Screamin Eagle slip-on. Helps eliminate backfires too.
Look for a clogged air filter or a loose intake manifold bolt. If the problem is not there, the fuel mixture may be on the rich side and the carburetor needs adjusting.
check fuil mixture
Perhaps timing chain has jumped, Worn cam lobes, Firing order mixed up, Accelerator pump failure (carburetor), Faulty distributor cap,
The answer is " Backfires ". - Answered
Well your first Problem is that 96 Lumina's ain't got carburetors bud a back fire can be from many things, check your codes and see what it says !!! if all is ok, then you may have a bad crank sensor. it controls the vehicles timing.
you did't specify if it is carburetor or fuel injection.if the backfire is out the exhaust or through the intake. if out the exaust it is usually ignition and if it is through the intake/carb or the plenum/fuel injected it usually is a lean or fuel starvation...
possible need carb rebuild, or a flat cam lobe . Could be timing or bad timing chain.