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?