By 1971, the writing was on the wall, with manufacturers and the buying public aware that upcoming legislative changes would have a profound impact on high-performance models. However, there were still some pretty impressive cars available that satisfied the need for speed felt by genuine enthusiasts. This 1971 Pontiac Trans Am demonstrates that graphically, courtesy of the 455ci “HO” V8 lurking under the hood. It presents nicely as a survivor-grade classic that the new owner can enjoy immediately. I want to extend a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting the Trans Am listed here on eBay in Dearborn, Michigan. The seller set their BIN at $69,000 with the option to make an offer.

With the Second Generation Firebird range having only appeared the previous year, Pontiac saw no reason to reinvent the wheel in 1971. It introduced only relatively minor exterior changes to differentiate it from the 1970 model. This Trans Am features Lucerne Blue paint with contrasting White and Black stripes. The seller doesn’t mention a restoration history, although they confirm that it has been the current owner’s pride and joy for forty-seven years. It presents well, with no visible cosmetic issues or shortcomings beyond a couple of paint chips that the seller reveals in the close-up shots. This gem has spent its life in Arizona, and with that state’s climate enjoying a favorable reputation for steel preservation, this Trans Am’s rust-free status is not only unsurprising but is supported by a comprehensive image gallery. There are no visible glass issues, and the Rally II wheels are free from physical damage.

Lifting the hood reveals what set the 1971 Trans Am apart from mere mortals. Pontiac was playing for keeps, equipping these beasts with the 455ci “HO” V8. That year’s Sales Brochure quotes power and torque figures of 335hp and 480 ft/lbs, while this car also features a four-speed M22 manual transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The seller doesn’t indicate whether the vehicle is numbers-matching, but confirms that it is PHS documented. It is unclear what modifications have been made to this classic. However, the mention of four-wheel disc brakes may indicate that there are other mechanical upgrades that would undermine the Trans Am’s survivor credentials in the eyes of some. The lack of information extends to the overall health, but I would expect any ’71 Trans Am within this price bracket to run and drive perfectly.

The car’s Blue vinyl interior complements this Trans Am’s exterior Lucerne Blue paint. Its condition is generally good for a vehicle of this vintage, with no evidence of abuse or neglect. The only concern that I have is for the state of the dashpad. Someone has dropped a cover over it, which I am itching to lift to determine whether the pad is cracked or showing other signs of UV damage. The dash houses a Pioneer radio/cassette player, although the factory AM radio and 8-track player reside in the trunk. Reinstalling those items would return the interior to a more stock appearance. The first owner equipped this classic with air conditioning, which the seller confirms is inoperative.

With a tally of 2,116 cars in 1971, the Trans Am accounted for only around 4% of Firebird sales that year. The situation would change dramatically throughout the decade, and by 1979, over 55% of all Firebirds leaving the factory wore a Trans Am badge. The production figure in 1971 makes this Trans Am relatively rare in a “big-picture” sense, while its presentation and the performance it promises will attract even the most hardened enthusiast. The seller’s BIN figure appears realistic, although the listing statistics suggest that this Pontiac hasn’t generated the interest typically expected from a classic of this caliber. Still, it only takes one passionate person for this beauty to find a new home. Do you think that will happen?