Pontiac produced a number of limited-edition versions of its Trans Am over the years, but it was external companies that rolled out cars in truly low numbers. Some of these vehicles have become well known and desirable classics, while others have been more obscure. This 1983 Trans Am is a Motor Sport Edition, and these were produced by Mecham Racing. This one is an original survivor, although it is now looking tired. Someone will have to choose whether to treat it to a cosmetic refresh or retain its survivor status. It is located in Gillette, Wyoming, and has been listed for sale here on eBay. Bidding has reached $5,600 in what is a No Reserve auction.

The Motor Sport Edition (MSE) was built by Mecham Racing between 1982 and 1986, and it sold in ever-decreasing numbers throughout its production life. The 1983 model year saw 150 cars roll out of the factory, and this car is #123. It is finished in a combination of Red and Silver. Cosmetically, the MSE package brought unique front and rear spoilers, along with special alloy wheels, a rear louver, and special decals. The only one of these features that is missing is the louver, but the spoilers and wheels are present and in good condition. The decals, like the paint, are now looking very tired, and a cosmetic refresh is undoubtedly warranted. However, the majority of the paint is said to be original, which might prompt someone to preserve the car as an unmolested survivor. The panels sport a few dings and marks, but there are no rust problems to address. The vehicle features a glass T-Top, and this seems to be in good condition. A look at the interior reveals no signs of leaking seals.

Powering the MSE is the standard 305ci HO V8, which produces 190hp. This is backed by a 5-speed manual transmission. The drivetrain is all standard Pontiac equipment, although the package did include a functional ram air induction system. It also included Koni shocks and struts, urethane suspension bushes, along with a 1″ lower ride height. The Pontiac has come in for some recent mechanical work, which should help stand it in good stead. This includes a full fluid flush, all new hoses, a new fan, and a new thermostat. The owner does admit that the Trans Am will run warm on hot days with the A/C running, so that is something to consider. The car rolls on a fresh set of BF Goodrich tires. The owner doesn’t indicate how well the MSE drives, as it has only been moved on and off a trailer since the work was completed. Included in the sale is PHS documentation on the vehicle.

The interior of the Pontiac presents reasonably well, and it has received a bit of recent work. The seats have all been treated to new covers, while a fresh headliner has been installed. The dash is in good condition, as is most of the remaining plastic and the carpet. There appears to be an issue with the console lid, so a replacement might need to be found. As well as air conditioning, the Pontiac is equipped with power windows and power locks. Looking around the interior reveals a few more of the unique MSE components. These include a dash insert, a numbered plaque on the console, a unique leather-wrapped wheel, and a 170mph Mecham Racing speedometer. Most of these items are in good condition, although the leather on the wheel looks quite aged. It isn’t clear whether this could be revived or whether it would need to be fully restored.

Mecham Racing produced the Motor Sport Edition for two reasons. The first of these was to celebrate the organization’s success in the 1982 SCCA Trans Am Series. In a similar approach to that of Enzo Ferrari, they also used the sale of the model to raise funds for their racing effort. Sales results were probably indicative of their success in the Trans Am Series because after selling 500 cars in their first year, the 1983 model year saw 150 cars find new homes. The following years saw the number drop to around 50 vehicles, while the final years saw numbers fall even further. Mecham Racing could see no financial benefit in maintaining production, so the MSE was quietly axed. Some of these third-part modified Trans Ams can command a premium over a standard vehicle, but the presence of the MSE package doesn’t make a huge difference here. The low production numbers mean that they don’t hit the market very often. When they do, excellent examples sell for around $10,000. That means that these are more of a motoring curiosity today than a highly-sought classic. Still, if the bidding stays low, it might not be a bad buy.