Listed here on eBay, this 1982 Pontiac Trans Am is a true one-owner survivor with just 38,712 miles and a story that reflects decades of careful preservation. According to the seller, the car remains almost completely untouched since the day it left the factory, wearing its original paint, interior, and drivetrain.
The Trans Am is powered by its original 305-cubic-inch V8, paired with a 4-speed manual transmission. The seller notes that it “runs excellent” and that the transmission shifts “nice and smooth,” suggesting it remains in very good operating condition. The car was reportedly only driven during summer months before being stored away in 2009, helping preserve its originality and structure.
As described, this Trans Am has never had rust issues, and the floors are said to be perfect. The seller acknowledges a few small blemishes from age and use, including some door dings and minor scratches, but nothing that detracts from its authenticity as a survivor. The interior is described as being in amazing condition, with only very minor wear, still showcasing its original tan upholstery and factory layout.
Pontiac’s Trans Am lineup was entering a new era in 1982, marking the debut of the third-generation Firebird. The sleek, aerodynamic styling and pop-up headlights gave it a futuristic look compared to its predecessors, and it quickly became a pop-culture icon. Equipped with T-tops and a manual gearbox, this example reflects the perfect blend of early-’80s flair and driver engagement.
This car is being sold at no reserve, meaning the highest bidder will take it home. The seller emphasizes that it’s being relisted for a friend after a previous high bidder failed to complete the purchase. Interested buyers are encouraged to inspect the car before bidding, as it is being sold as-is, with no warranties.
The seller sums it up simply: “You would be hard pressed to find another 1982 Trans Am in this condition.” For enthusiasts of early-’80s American performance—or anyone who remembers when these cars first hit the streets—this low-mile, unmodified survivor offers a rare chance to experience one just as it was over forty years ago.
Would you preserve this one-owner Trans Am just as it sits, or wake it up for some weekend cruising?
She’s a beauty
It’s nice, last time it was “sold” for $19,955, but the sale was not completed. For close to that price I’d rather get a TPI equipped car.
Steve R
Yes, unfortunately, there’s not a lot to recommend the very early cars.The start of getting a lot more exciting with the L69 5.0 H.O. in ’83, LB9 5.0 TPI in ’85, and of course the L98 5.7 TPI in ’87.
Those were light years ahead of the 145-165 HP 1982/early-1983 cars, which didn’t even have a 5-speed manual (4-speed in the weaker 4-bbl LG4 only). If you’re going to spring the money and garage space, there’s no reason not to upgrade to one of those.
I have an 83 TA with 67,000 miles and the second owner. Have had it for 31 years but had it in storage for the last 8 years. Took it out this summer and put on new tires, brakes, and battery. Runs almost like new and no rust like a lot of survivors have. White with T tops and turbine factory wheels. Only an automatic but still fun to drive. What good is the higher horsepower if you only want to enjoy leisurely cruising? Grandkids love to ride along
I agree. The early 3rd gens have the best looks, IMO. The power is adequate for keeping up with traffic and the torque is good enough to provide a kick in the pants when you need it. I had a couple of ’82s, one of which was a low miles cream puff and you don’t need to go fast to get lots of looks. People loved that car.
The only thing one can do with this one is to turn it into a K.I.T.T. Copy
I had the exact same version (flat hood) in light blue exterior /dark blue interior, except mine had the correct front buckets?? (Hole between the head rest and center cushion) This one doesn’t have the correct front seats?
Four speed, I think only available in 82 until a five speed became standard.
Very nice car, but since it isn’t mentioned, you have to assume that it hasn’t been run in 16 years. That’s a big consideration when bidding.
If it’s been stored since 2009, it needs to be gone through completely. All fluids changed, new tires. Hopefully, the gas tank is ok, and then there’s the carburetor. Even if you squared it away, it’s the low-end V8. I had a 1983 Berlinetta, and I put a 400 SBC in it. That fixed performance issues. Something similar would happen here.
Remember these very well when they came out. This is the last gen. I really liked. They used to be everywhere. Now they’re like unicorns. Overall a very nice, clean car. I thought with the mileage the interior would be a bit nicer and the engine bay cleaner but still a very nice original car overall.
Nice thats its a manual.
SOLD for $18,800.
72 bids.