We’re no strangers to low-mile classics at Barn Finds, although some claims withstand closer scrutiny than others. The seller states that this 1980 Pontiac Turbo Trans Am has a genuine 21,000 miles showing on its odometer. If that can be verified, it makes this a pretty special classic. Its most immediate need is a new home, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting a pony car that might have quite a story to tell.
The seller claims that this Trans Am is a one-owner classic. The listing indicates it was uncovered in a warehouse, a spot it had occupied for many years. The seller doesn’t mention verifying evidence for any of their claims, meaning they must be taken at face value. One fact that is confirmed is that this Trans Am received a repaint at some point in its original shade of Bright Blue. It retains an impressive shine, with no evidence of patchiness. A close inspection reveals a selection of small chips on the front bumper and spoiler, proof that this Pontiac has been driven and enjoyed. A reputable shop could address those shortcomings, and since the car has already received a cosmetic refresh, the new owner won’t be tampering with a genuine survivor. The best news is this Trans Am’s rust-free status. The seller supplies an enormous photo gallery, and apart from some isolated sections of dry surface corrosion on the underside, there is no evidence of steel penetration. The decals look crisp, and the beautiful Turbo wheels are excellent.
The Malaise Era saw many manufacturers adopt imaginative approaches to extract power from their now asthmatic V8 engines, and Pontiac was no exception. This Trans Am features a 301ci V8, but it is the range-topping Turbo variant. Forced induction had taken the motorsport world by storm, and with Japanese and European manufacturers joining the party with showroom models, Pontiac followed the same path. The difference the “hairdryer” made was profound. The “standard” 301 generated 170hp and 230 ft/lbs of torque. This motor lifts those figures to 210hp and 345 ft/lbs. The only disappointment for those craving a “total” driving experience was the company’s decision to not offer a manual transmission version. Everyone received a three-speed automatic, allowing the Trans Am to cover the ¼-mile in 16.1 seconds. That made it the fastest version of the Trans Am offered in that model year, but you must wonder how much better it would have been with a stick shift. Okay, it’s time to draw breath and examine the seller’s claims. They state that this gem spent years in storage and that it has a genuine 21,000 miles on the clock. They don’t mention verifying evidence for those statements, making it a question worth asking. They revived the Pontiac and returned it to a roadworthy state. They are about to fit new tires, which should be the final act of transforming it from a warehouse find to a turnkey classic.
I always emphasize that potential buyers should undertake their homework to confirm everything about a classic before committing their hard-earned cash to take it home. This Trans Am demonstrates that because after emphasizing this car’s originality, the seller states that its interior is trimmed in Black leather. Now, one of those statements is incorrect. Leather wasn’t an option in 1980, meaning that it has either received a retrim or that this is standard Black vinyl. The overall presentation is tidy, with no significant wear anywhere other than on the carpet below the driver’s right foot. The door trim vinyl has wrinkled, but the buyer might be able to stretch it back into shape. There is no crumbling plastic, UV damage, or aftermarket additions. It isn’t loaded with factory options, although the air conditioning, rear defogger, and AM radio/8-track player are welcome touches.
This 1980 Pontiac Turbo Trans Am is a turnkey classic, and although it isn’t perfect, most people would accept its presentation as a survivor-grade vehicle. The seller has listed this beauty here on eBay in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. They set a BIN of $27,750 OBO, which is realistic if their claims are verifiable. I would typically expect a car of this caliber to generate significant interest, but only thirteen people have placed it on their Watch List. The auction is in its early stages, so the situation could change at any time. Are you planning to join the spectators, or is making an offer a tempting idea?
Yep, them rectangle low beams are hard to find, cool car.
Huh? Rockauto has plenty to choose from.
Almost 30K? Should have gotten that trunk lid to line up better.
Gm’s didn’t line up from the factory. Manufacturers moto was, “Ship it and let the dealer finish it”. Some body fit if run on a Friday was atocious. I was working in GM body shops in those days. Not enough hours in the week to fix all of them.
Detailed so it would look good in the pictures. Not buying the mileage claim.
Steve R
how many of those headlights you want? i got plenty.
I had one of these back in the day, Tahitian Yellow. Ahhh, such great memories! I absolutely LOVE this blue. Too bad it doesn’t have t-tops.
If the mileage can be verified, the 27k price tag would be a solid deal.
Gm’s didn’t line up from the factory. Manufacturers moto was, “Ship it and let the dealer finish it”. Some body fit if run on a Friday was atocious. I was working in GM body shops in those days. Not enough hours in the week to fix all of them.
A lot of black paint covering who knows what…