1978 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am HardTop Coupe

Pontiac introduced their second generation of Firebirds in 1970. The Firebird lineup now had four body styles, instead of six. The convertible was no longer offered. The top-of-the-line body style was the Trans Am, which was fitted with air dams across the bottom of the front and in front of the wheels. Completing the package was a large deck lid spoiler and small spoilers in front of the rear wheels.

Throughout the 1970s, the Firebird and Trans Am became an even more refined automobiles and increased in popularity in spite of CAFE restorations that limited Pontiac's ability to increase engine performance. Instead, they focused on appearance and handling.

In 1977, the Trans Am entered a new level of popularity when it played a leading roll along-side Burt Reynolds, Sally Fields, and Jackie Gleason in the movie 'Smokey and the Bandit.' The movie was made in 1976 and used several Trans AMs equipped with what would be the SE package.

Later, Burt Reynolds purchased his own original Trans Am - this car. It is a true W87 Trans Am with factory T-tops and a 6.6-liter 400 cubic-inch engine fitted with an automatic transmission. It has been properly restored and given slight modifications. It is black with gold paint, snowflake rims, and body ground effects with flairs and spoilers. The interior features embroidered Bandit portrait headrests, aftermarket stereo, a leather steering wheel, and a Cobra C.B. radio.

The car was loaned to the Petersen Museum in Los Angeles, where it was a display piece for many years.

In 2009, this Trans Am 'Bandit' Sport Coupe was offered for sale at the Houston Classic Auction presented by Worldwide Auctioneers and held in Seabrook, Texas. The lot was estimated to sell for $55,000 - $75,000. The lot was sold for $47,000 plus the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2009