During the second generation of the Pontiac Firebird, the Formula was a bridge between the standard/Esprit models and the Trans Am. As such, in 1972, a 350 cubic inch V8 was standard with 400s and 455s being optional. The seller’s beautiful 400 example may only have 36,000 miles and is unmolested, as close to its build date as possible. Located in Massapequa, New York, this low-production muscle car is available here on eBay. $17,101 is the current level of interest, and the seller has set a reserve north of that.
You could instantly spot a Formula from a regular Firebird by the simulated twin air scoops on the hood. The level of trim was also higher, and of course, the car had that rubberier Endura front bumper. Disc brakes were standard, as was a dual exhaust. Due to labor issues at GM, 1972 production was a down year compared to 1971. Less than 30,000 Firebirds were built compared to 53,000 units the year before, and the Formula went from just under 8,000 to a tick over 5,000 copies.
This Formula has the 400, a 4-speed “Rock Crusher” manual, and either a 10-bolt or 12-bolt rear end (the seller indicates both). Somehow, the car has only managed to cover 37,000 miles. The paint, which is original, is Shadow Gold Poly with a beige interior with black accents. A little wear and tear is here and there, but the car is 54 years old, after all. New parts include fluids, shocks, a fuel pump, a tune-up, and a rebuild of the carburetor. Also, the seller has added Ram Air Induction.
As a garage queen for years, the car also has plenty of documentation. And its original license plate from New York State. If you’re a fan of the second-gen Firebirds, they probably don’t come this nice in original condition with low miles. How high do you think the bidding will go?
It definitely has a 10 bolt, the window sticker does not show limited slip nor which Muncie it came with. It’s a nice car, but as always, any car from an area prone to rust needs a thorough inspection.
These early second generation Formulas are great drivers, I’ve had a couple, so have several friends. If it’s as nice as it looks on the pictures it will be a nice car to own.
Steve R
The build sheet shows the 4 speed as option code 35G which is the M22. The M20 is 35E, and the M21 is 35B. It is odd that the car has an M22 and no posi from the factory… still, a nice car. I also owned several 71-73’s including a T/A, but would certainly enjoy this car the way it sits, after removing the air cleaner sticker!
Thanks for the clarification on the codes.
Steve R
Actually had a 1974 Firebird 400…..always liked these early years.
I have always thought that the formulas were cooler than the TAs but I don’t think that the market agrees. Cooler hood. No corny thunder chicken decal. Anyone else think that, or am I completely bonkers on that issue (in addition to everything else in my medical record)?
You are not completely bonkers. I prefer them as well. Good looking cars
I prefer the T/A hood and scoop WITHOUT the puking chicken. We had a white special order T/A come in with the decal delete. It was beautiful! The customer traded in a ’69 White 350 HO Firebird.
Why are these cars always way across the country?
Any idea what that brass tag is on the dash, just right of the lighter, maybe a car show plaque…but it looks like it was made for that spot. Nice car!!
Likely something like that. If I’m not incorrect that’s where the rear window defroster and the early-1970’s power door lock switches would have gone.
Steve R
Tbone you are absolutely right I would rather have this than a TA Nothing against a TA I also like the little scoops better
Love the stick shift Formulas, no spoiler on them is even more a slick look.
I would take a Formula over a TA any day of the week. Just love the hoods and the lower production numbers. Growing up in the 70s it seemed everyone had a TA but you rarely seen a Formula. Even at the end of the run Formula were special. Take 1999, a Formula with the WS6 is a rare bird. I think the numbered production was like 1600 or so. Rare bird indeed. This Formula is a sweet car and I’m sure the price tag is high!
You can tell that it’s definitely for sale!
I forgot how big the doors are on those coupes. It looks like its 4-5 feet long!
It’s a little surprising that whoever ordered this Firebird didn’t include safe-t-track, but this is still a really nice Ponch. It’s currently at $33.9k, reserve unmet with 4 days left. Love to find this in my garage.
Didn’t the ’70-73 Pontiac Formulas have a small rectangular vent just behind the front wheels?
If I remember correctly, they were a 1971 only feature.
what a great color and it wears it well. looks clean as a pin. i bet the reserve is close to 50k. i guess it worth it if the miles are real. it has a ton of docs too which is a big help.
Currently $33,900 with 4 days to go. Reserve still unmet.
I find it highly unlikely that the original buyer would order what in reality is a fairly tame bit of transportation with an M-22. Someone willing to put up with the gear whine would have almost certainly have gone with the bigger motor.
It’s sitting at $39 and a lot of change K right now
39,700 now, can only imagine what the price will be at auctions end.
I too like these over the ta’s anyday. It’s like the difference between an LX or GT fox bodied mustang, LX for me.
Nice Firebird, especially with the owner added ram air. Have always liked early birds. This will make somebody very happy.
Other than that nasty crease in the left quarter she sure looks good. Great colors and features. Was positraction included in the Formula package? I can’t picture the manufacturers not charging you for something.
Trans Am yes, Formula no. Both of the Formulas I had came with open differentials.
Steve R
My enduring memory of the Firebird Formula was the third generation gold model James Garner drove as Jim Rockford in “The Rockford Files”. They had me at the opening, with the telephone message that was left on Jim Rockford’s answering machine in the opening credits every week, LOL!
Jim Rockford: [answering machine picks up] This is Jim Rockford. At the tone leave your name and message, I’ll get back to you.
Angel Martin: Jimmy, old buddy buddy! It’s Angel! You know how they allow you one phone call? Well, this is it.
Auction ended on 7/23/2026 with a high bid of $45,000 RNM, there were 37 bids from 12 bidders.
Steve R