If you scroll back through the Barn Finds archives, you will quickly discover that most of Pontiac’s pony car models that have graced the site for over a decade have worn Trans Am badges. That makes our feature car a breath of fresh air because it is the less performance-focused 1991 Firebird Convertible. That isn’t to say it’s an easy touch because the V8 under the hood provides respectable performance. Its strongest attribute is that it is an original and unmolested survivor with a mere 43,000 miles on the clock. The seller feels the time is right for it to find a new home, listing the Firebird here on Craigslist in Erie, Pennsylvania. You could drive it home for $12,995, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder PRA4SNW for spotting this beauty.

The Third Generation Firebird was reaching the end of its production life by the time our feature car rolled off the line in 1991. The 1992 model year would mark the end of an era before an even more aerodynamic Firebird appeared in 1993. The seller claims this Bright White survivor is 1-of-1,505 Firebird Convertibles built in 1991, and they are both right and wrong. That total includes Trans Ams, but the correct figure for Firebirds alone is actually 950. This is a relatively rare beast, considering total Firebird production across all variants was 50,233 cars. It is hard to find anything to criticize with this classic that has been garage-kept throughout its life. The paint retains an impressive shine, coating panels as straight as an arrow. The gaps are tight and consistent, while the underside shots confirm this gem is rust-free. There are no photos or information regarding the state of the soft-top, but the news should be positive if the condition of the rest of the exterior is an accurate guide. The plastic and glass look excellent, and while I don’t find the alloy wheels the most visually appealing, they are free from stains and damage. My opinion regarding the wheels is based on personal preference, and your view may differ from mine.

Buyers could order their 1991 Firebird powered by a 3.1-liter V6, providing surprisingly energetic performance. However, this car’s first owner selected the 5.0-liter TBFI V8, producing 170hp and 255 ft/lbs of torque. The power feeds to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission, while power assistance for the steering and front disc brakes was standard in 1991. Performance figures between the V6 and V8 Firebird variants were closer than most people realize. The auto-equipped V6 covers the ¼-mile in 17.8 seconds on the way to 119mph, while the eight’s figures are 17 seconds and 125mph. Okay, it might not be the fastest car on the planet, but at least the owner can enjoy a wonderful V8 throb whenever they turn the key. The seller claims this Convertible has a genuine 43,000 miles on the clock, but they don’t mention verifying evidence. However, they state that it runs and drives perfectly and that the original Window Sticker is included.

This Firebird’s interior might not be loaded with safety and luxury features. Still, journeys will hardly be unpleasant due to the presence of driver’s airbag, air conditioning, power windows, power locks, sports instrument cluster, cloth seat trim, tilt wheel, and cruise control. The factory AM/FM radio/cassette player has made way for a more modern CD unit, but that seems to be the only modification to an interior that presents exceptionally well. The lack of UV damage supports the “garage-kept” claim, while the absence of wear and physical damage across every aspect suggests the car has been treated respectfully throughout its life. Landing at a Cars & Coffee with the top down and the interior exposed to public scrutiny will cause the new owner no shame.

This 1991 Firebird Convertible looks like a gem, and its relative rarity makes it worth preserving. The seller’s price is pushing towards the top end of the market, but it could be justified if an in-person inspection confirms the condition and the odometer reading is verified beyond doubt. Would you consider pursuing this classic further if that proves the case? I wish you luck if you do.