It is easy to be cynical about mileage claims, especially those that are extraordinarily low. However, this 1977 Pontiac Trans Am raises no such doubts, because its odometer reading of 36,000 miles is documented as original. The sale includes an excellent selection of paperwork, tracing this classic’s journey from the day it left the showroom floor. The auction action has been very respectable for the Trans Am, which is listed here on eBay in Decatur, Illinois. Bidding currently sits at $32,600, which is below the reserve.
Pontiac performed a styling update to its Second Generation Firebird range for the 1977 model year. The most obvious change was to the nose, with more aggressive styling and rectangular headlights the order of the day. This Trans Am rolled off the line that year and is a true survivor that presents exceptionally well. Its Buccaneer Red paint shines impressively, cloaking laser-straight panels. The seller supplies several underside shots, confirming this classic’s rust-free status. They describe the car’s overall condition as flawless, and it is hard to argue with their assessment. The decals, including the iconic Screaming Chicken, are crisp, with no evidence of shrinkage or checking. There are no signs of deteriorating plastic, the tinted glass is clear, and the Snowflake wheels aren’t stained or marked.
Life for performance-oriented enthusiasts was pretty tough by 1977, with engine power suffering under harsh emission regulations. The first owner ordered this Trans Am with the W72 version of the company’s 400ci V8, providing better-than-average power and torque for a vehicle from this era. It sends 200hp and 325 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission. Add power assistance for the steering and brakes to the mix, and this Trans Am should provide an effortless driving experience. The seller states that this classic has a genuine 36,000 miles on the clock, and with documentation supporting the claim, this Pontiac is a special vehicle. The deal includes a selection of paperwork, comprising the Owner’s Manual, Window Sticker, Car Credentials Folio, and Service Records. Unsurprisingly, the Trans Am is a turnkey proposition that runs and drives perfectly.
The first owner didn’t restrict their cash splash to the range-topping engine. They equipped this Trans Am’s interior with air conditioning that blows ice-cold, power windows, a tilt wheel, cruise control, a rear defogger, factory floor mats, an AM/FM stereo radio, and an 8-track player. Trimmed in White and Firethorn Red, the interior is in as-new condition. There is no evidence of wear, stains, or yellowing. The dash is immaculate, and the crack-free pad hasn’t faded or succumbed to UV exposure. If Pontiac still existed, it wouldn’t look out of place on a showroom floor.
I was raised in a household where Ford ruled the roost. Therefore, it is unsurprising that I prefer classics wearing a Blue-Oval badge. However, I have always had a soft spot for Pontiac’s Second Generation Firebird range. Although closely related to the Chevrolet Camaro, I have always felt that the Firebird held an indefinable styling edge. That means that readers won’t be surprised to learn that I love this ’77 Trans Am, and would like nothing more than to park it in my garage. Sadly, I am not in a position to make it happen. If you are the successful bidder, I admit that I will feel envious. Are you tempted to make me turn green by joining the bidding war? I wish you luck if you do.
Would “Smokey and the Bandit” have been the same with a Buccaneer Red Trans Am?
The shims for the striker bolts should not be painted. The cover for the console bin would not be a radically different color than the rest of the interior. There are used car dealers and then there are used car dealers. Some will blatantly misrepresent ‘all original’ the vehicles they’re trying to sell.