1976 Pontiac Firebird

Description

Pontiac was still in the performance business when this 1976 Pontiac Firebird was built, complete with a 350 cubic inch V8, making it as much fun to drive as it is to look at. The market is moving on these cars, and this high-visibility example still attracts attention everywhere it goes.

Recently repainted a vivid shade of bright orange that sure looks like traditional Carousel Red, this Firebird is exactly the opposite of subtle. Forget all the jokes about flying chickens on the hood, because this one has a clean, chiseled look that suggests horsepower without the added graphics. It was apparently a clean, honest car before the repaint, too, and has ended up as an ultra-sharp reminder of what performance was like in the '70s. Gaps are good all around, and Pontiac gave it a great look with a modestly aggressive front bumper, a set of Formula badges, and a ducktail spoiler out back, all of which remain in excellent shape. The paint is two-stage urethane, so it has a great shine that's virtually indestructible, and the shiny trim along the lower edges emphasizes the length of the car, making it long and low. It's not perfect, of course, but it's got an awesome look that'll stand out among all the Trans Ams you see at shows.

Tan buckets were the best way to travel in 1976, and the classic color combination ensures that this Poncho will always be in demand by collectors. The seats are comfortable and supportive thanks to firm foam underneath, and the seat covers themselves are nice reproductions that show very little wear since the restoration. The center console houses the original shifter for the TH350 3-speed automatic transmission as well as a handy storage bin, and the gauges look quite good considering their age. The original AM radio is gone, replaced by an AM/FM/cassette head unit, but the factory 8-trcack is still hanging underneath. Other options include factory A/C (needs service) and power windows. The trunk is in nice shape with a reproduction mat and a vintage-looking spare tire with jack assembly.

While a lot of engines were down on horsepower in the mid-70s, Pontiac engineers were better than most at keeping their top engines at the top of the horsepower charts, and the 350 cubic inch V8 in this Firebird is a good runner. Thanks to proper maintenance and minimal modifications, it runs great, so it's ready to enjoy without worries. It wears Pontiac Turquoise paint, a Rochester 4-barrel under the original air cleaner, and a brand new dual exhaust system that probably adds a few horsepower. The chassis is in fantastic condition with shiny black floors and a new gas tank, and a set of reasonable gears in back make it an effortless cruiser. Wheels are the traditional Pontiac Rally IIs which wear 235/70/15 blackwall radials at all four corners.

Five years ago, we told you that this day was coming, and now it's here. '70s Firebirds are red hot and climbing the market faster than almost anything else. Don't wait another day, call us now!