The Pontiac Sunbird isn’t one of those cars that typically still gets a lot of attention, at least not in stock form, unless it happens to be one of those that came from the factory with a 305 V8 provided by Chevrolet. The thought of stuffing any V8 into a subcompact sounds like a rewarding idea, and while it’s unknown what was originally under the hood of this 1979 Pontiac Sunbird here on Craigslist, the present powerplant is larger than anything that could have been had when this one was new. If you’ve been searching for something affordable and different, this one might be worth considering. Priced at $6,500, this little Pontiac is located in Supulpa, Oklahoma, and we’d like to thank reader Tony Primo for finding it and sending in the tip!
The Sunbird was introduced into the Pontiac lineup as a 1976 model, with first-generation production lasting through 1980. Typical engine choices were either an inline 4 or a Buick-sourced V6, but for 1978 and 1979 only, buyers could choose a V8. However, it was of the 305 variety, and power here is provided by an upgraded 350. The seller doesn’t go into many details regarding the engine, only describing it as mild, but this still sounds enticing for such a small automobile. There’s also an automatic transmission and a narrowed 9” Ford rear end, with the seller believing this car could be a lot faster with some additional work performed.
This one also features some custom touches outside, including the elimination of the rear side glass, with the body extended over this area from the top of the quarters to the roof. Although the front bumper is still present, the rear unit has been removed, with a custom molding covering where it once resided. The sheet metal appears solid, and while the exterior isn’t quite perfect, it seems fine for just a fun driver. Down below, the tri-shade blue stripes provide a nice accent to the white that appears nearly everywhere else.
Those hoping for more of a race-car vibe inside won’t be disappointed, as the original door panels have been replaced with steel materials, a roll bar has been installed, and some dash mods have also been made. Out back, wheel tubs have been added to house those large Mickey Thompson tires safely underneath the car, instead of having them sticking out the sides. For $6,500, this seems like a fun cruiser, and I’d probably just enjoy it as-is without investing a lot of additional work and money. What are your thoughts on this 1979 Pontiac Sunbird?
Looks like a a lot of money for a questionable build. And why delete the rear quarter windows? They add character to the cars body lines.
This is a nice project. Car to make a nice street machine like to no what kind of rear end and transmission behind the 350 Chevy.
Narrowed Ford 9″ rear, not sure about transmission
What’s questionable about it?
Having owned several factory V8 Monzas and a few that got 350/355 transplants I can attest to the fact that these cars fly with V8s
I have not lost many races in my 60 years but always remember the waxing I got from a boss of mine in a 75 with a 350, in my Camaro 350. I don’t remember it being that lopey either, just a weight advantage.
This thing is absolutely hilarious lol! I agree the rear window delete makes an already less than attractive car pretty much ugly as hell, but I bet you it’s fast, and suitably terrifying to drive fast.
This has all or the earmarks of an old race car that was returned to the street. Its rough and many styling decisions were made that are questionable, but it’s inexpensive for a running car that will turn heads at a coffee and cars. It might even be fun. You could do a lot worse, if you have thick skin and don’t care that random people are going to poke fun at it.
Steve R
For 6,500.00 I would rather have this, that i can drive and have fun, than some rusted out pile for four times the money. I have a camaro that was built for drag racing that I put back on the street and I have a blast driving it and at 69 years old I would rather spend my time having a blast.
I’m with Kek on this, no time to waste have fun now. I don’t like the quarter window delete either but one could have one airbrushed in just for the looks and that wouldn’t require any cutting or welding etc. potentially a lot of fun for 6 grand which these days isn’t much.
I’ve seen worse messes but not today.
Hey, maybe the addition torque and traction flexed the body enough to break the quarter glass that is only glued in anyway. If done correctly the replacement sheet metal will add stiffness to the body. It looks like a fun toy (can you say bracket racing at the local drag strip? I knew you could!) at a reasonable price.
I’m not sure you could buy a good running 350 for $6500 assuming it runs good. If I had space in the garage, I’d take a chance.
If I had a Monza fastback , I would take all the good parts off this and put on good car . I do not like the messed with side windows and the parachute rear bumper. This would be my parts car.
The missing rear side glass presents a visibility problem. So I suggest the buyer stop by Western Auto on the way home and buy a pair of chrome West Coast mirrors. Nice offset to the white paint. No thanks.
Straight outta the 90’s
Kool and differrent! What could be better fun b to money ratio?