400/4-Speed: 1968 Pontiac Firebird

I have always considered pre-1970 pony cars as some of the best-looking vehicles to roll off American production lines. They possessed a purity of style that was lost as the later examples grew larger and less elegant. They also represented genuine marketing genius, allowing buyers to select relatively modest and affordable entry-level drivetrains if their budget didn’t allow access to more potent mechanical combinations. This 1968 Pontiac Firebird demonstrates what was possible with a healthy budget, with the engine bay housing the desirable 400ci V8. It appears to be a stalled project needing a new home, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Ted for spotting a classic that seems to offer a lot to its next owner.

Pontiac introduced the Firebird for the 1967 model year, with the car selling in respectable numbers. However, it really hit its stride in 1968, with volumes climbing into six-figure territory for the first time. Our feature car emerged during that year, although the seller is short on specific details surrounding its history. Its panels wear a Brown primer, and there are no shots allowing us to determine its factory paint shade. The images suggest this is a stalled restoration project that is begging for someone to return it to its former glory. The panels are straight, but the most reassuring aspect is the lack of visible rust issues. It is possible that if this is a stalled build, any issues may have been eliminated. Only an in-person inspection will reveal the truth, a strategy that I always recommend before handing over hard-earned cash. The seller confirms that any removed trim pieces are in the trunk, while the glass appears to be in good order if the buyer plans a driver-grade restoration.

Lifting the hood reveals what could be the ace up this Firebird’s sleeve. The engine bay houses the iconic 400ci V8, which is teamed with a four-speed manual transmission. That powerplant produced 330hp and 430 ft/lbs of torque in its prime, allowing this classic to storm the ¼-mile in 14.3 seconds. There are a couple of things for potential buyers to consider, with the first being that the seller doesn’t indicate whether this Pontiac is numbers-matching. Engine upgrades and transplants are common, meaning this car may have rolled off the line with something less potent under the hood. That is a question worth asking, because, while this Firebird should command a respectable value once restored, it can only achieve a top-end price if it retains its factory drivetrain. The other factor will cause some readers to grind their teeth, with the seller stating that this project ran when parked. It is unclear how long it has hibernated, or if the engine turns freely. However, the robust nature of the Pontiac 400 may allow a revival with minimal effort.

Keeping it short and sweet, this Firebird’s interior requires a complete retrim. The front seats aren’t original, while the dash houses an aftermarket radio/cassette player and a graphic equalizer. However, the console and hood tach are both features that most enthusiasts will welcome. Locating a correct pair of seats shouldn’t be a problem, and with high-quality trim kits retailing for under $2,000, returning this interior to its former glory is an achievable goal.

One of the greatest challenges when searching for a First Generation pony car project candidate is locating an affordable option. That term can mean different things to different people, and this 1968 Pontiac Firebird might tick that box for many enthusiasts. The seller has listed it here on Facebook Marketplace in Onsted, Michigan. Their asking price of $16,000 might be appealing, especially if it is as free from significant rust as the photos seem to suggest. It could be out of the financial reach of some readers, but are you prepared to bite the bullet and park this Firebird project in your workshop?