400-Equipped: 1972 Pontiac Firebird

One of the great attractions of many American classics is that they offer scope for owners to personalize their ride with a vast array of factory and aftermarket components. This 1972 Pontiac Firebird is a perfect example of that thinking because the current owner made a series of changes during what has been a long-term build. The finish line is in sight, but changed circumstances mean it must find a new home. It would be ideal for someone unable to complete a full-blown restoration but doesn’t mind tackling some minor tinkering in their garage or workshop.

The seller has been this Firebird’s custodian for a few years, working through the build process as time and circumstances have allowed. It remains unfinished, but it appears most of the difficult and expensive work is complete. He includes receipts totaling $25,000, and considering he saved on labor costs because he is a mechanic, it appears he has spared no expense with the build. The car recently received a professional repaint in Cameo White. It isn’t perfect, but is comfortably acceptable for a driver-grade classic. The seller added a new nose because the original showed age deterioration. The alignment is slightly out on the front left corner, but it should improve with minor tweaking. The lack of rust is a positive attribute. The floors are rock-solid, and the only known steel corrosion is this small spot in one drop-off. I can’t spot any panel imperfections beyond a small dent below the rear bumper. The windshield is new, and the remaining glass looks excellent. Rounding out the exterior are freshly restored Rally II wheels.

The VIN confirms the original owner ordered this Firebird powered by the 350ci V8 developing 160hp and 270 ft/lbs of torque. Much has changed since then because the buyer receives a 400ci powerplant, a three-speed automatic transmission, and power assistance for the steering and brakes. The specifications of the upgraded V8 are unknown, but it will undoubtedly produce more power. It is also worth noting that the seller is a master mechanic, meaning any changes or modifications should be of a high standard. The Firebird hasn’t seen active service for a while, with the seller only recently coaxing it back to life after a year of sitting untouched. The 400 sprang to life easily, although it appears the float in the Edelbrock carburetor is stuck. Otherwise, this Pontiac features a wide range of new suspension and brake components, further explaining where the seller’s money went on the build.

This Firebird’s interior demonstrates how condition is often a matter of interpretation. The seller says it has been “redone,” but then indicates it requires a headliner and that the dashpad is cracked. I also noted a split on the upper door trim to add to the missing console lid and passenger armrest cap identified by the seller. The parts to improve the situation are available and affordable, meaning whipping the interior into shape shouldn’t be challenging. The lack of a compressor belt suggests the air conditioning requires TLC, while someone cut the door trims to accommodate speakers for the aftermarket stereo.

The seller listed this 1972 Pontiac Firebird here on eBay in Las Vegas, Nevada. Bidding has raced past the reserve, sitting at $10,277. The auction is heading towards its conclusion, meaning this classic will head to a new home in a few days. The car has no immediate or significant shortcomings, making returning it to active service a realistic short-term goal. Considering how much the seller has spent on this build, any remaining costs should be insignificant. That makes it worth a close look.