1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am Limited Edition HardTop Coupe

The Pontiac TransAm production began in 1969 and only a few hundred were sold that year. As the years progressed, the muscle car era and the days of the high-horsepower engine greatly digressed. Emission regulations, increase in oil prices, and increases in safety policy brought this glorious era to its knees. During this time, the popularity of the Trans Am steadily increased, thanks in-part to its relatively powerful engine, good handling, and styling. In 1977, Burt Reynolds' 'Smokey and the Bandit' was released and the car's place in history was secured.

A sub-series of the Firebird began by 1979, including the base Firebird, the luxurious Esprit, and the sporty Formula. The Trans Am still accounted for nearly half of total Firebird production.

This 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am is finished in Starlight Black. It was built at Pontiac's VanNuys, California plant and carried a price of $8,694.45 when new. It has the iconic Firebird hood decal, chrome exhaust splitters, and 'Snowflake' aluminum wheels. It is powered by a 403 cubic-inch Oldsmobile-built V8 engine capable of producing 185 horsepower. There is a three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic transmission and disc brakes in the front and drums in the rear. Other amenities include air conditioning, power steering, and tilt wheel.

In 2008, this vehicle was brought to the 2nd Annual Vintage Motor Cars of Hershey presented by RM Auctions, where it was estimated to sell for $12,000-$18,000. Though there was no reserve, a high bid of $9,900 was enough to secure new ownership. The lot was sold

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2008