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455 HO: 1972 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am

The 1972 model year nearly marked the demise of Pontiac’s iconic Firebird range. General Motors considered pulling the pin on its F-Body offerings, including the Firebird and the Camaro, thanks to industrial action. Thankfully, both models received a stay of execution, and the Firebird proceeded to achieve sales records in subsequent years. Our feature car is a 1972 Trans Am, and courtesy of the strike action, it is 1-of-1,286 Trans Ams produced during that model year. It is an unrestored survivor with 38,000 miles on its odometer, and it needs to find its way to a new home. Located in Hialeah, Florida, you will find the Trans Am listed for sale here on eBay. The seller has set a BIN of $72,990, although the option is available to make an offer.

It seems that apart from some (but not all) recently renewed graphics and decals, this Pontiac’s exterior is original and unmolested. Its Cameo White paint shines impressively, with only the occasional small nick and mark visible in the supplied photos. The owner says that he rates it better than driver-quality, but that’s the closest term he can think of to categorize it. The panels appear remarkably straight, with tight and consistent gaps. There is no visible rust in the supplied photos, and the owner states that the floors are original with no undercoating. The tinted glass and honeycomb wheels appear faultless, while most of the trim is above average for a fifty-year-old survivor. There’s no doubt that the Trans Am would respond positively to some cosmetic restoration, but doing so would compromise its high level of originality.

The owner believes that apart from a replacement carpet set, the Dark Blue vinyl trim and upholstery are original. I can spot an aftermarket radio in place of the factory unit, but there seem to be no other additions or changes. The overall condition is pretty impressive, with only a single seam separation on the driver’s seat as a flaw worth noting. However, I believe that a skilled upholsterer may affect a repair without the need for replacement. The dash appears spotless, as does the engine-turned gauge cluster. The interior could also be considered nicely equipped in a 1972 context. It includes air conditioning, a gauge cluster with a factory tach, a tilt wheel, and a factory 8-track player.

If a buyer longed for a Trans Am in 1972, they had to be prepared for its engine bay to house the 455ci “HO” V8. Still, with that motor producing 300hp, it was hardly a hardship. This car also features a three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power front disc brakes. Tightening emission regulations saw performance levels declining in 1972, but it seems that Pontiac didn’t receive that memo. If the owner pointed this classic at a ¼ mile, the journey would take 14.3 seconds, representing a drop of a mere 0.1 second over the figures produced in 1971. To place that into perspective, it is worth comparing that ET with the Pontiac’s cousin, the Camaro SS 396. Over the same distance, the auto-equipped Camaro would take 15.3 seconds, making the Trans Am the king of the F-Bodies. The owner states that not only is this classic numbers-matching, but he describes it as a 1-of-828 car. Since the company produced 1,286 Trans Ams during 1972, I assume that he uses his figure to reference those featuring an automatic transmission. It runs and drives perfectly, and he includes PHS documentation verifying the car’s authenticity. He also supplies this YouTube video providing a detailed walkaround. We hear that glorious 455 starting and running, and it sounds beautiful.

This 1972 Pontiac Trans Am is not perfect, but it would be unreasonable to expect that from a car with five decades and 38,000 miles under its belt. However, it does present beautifully for a vehicle of this type and would garner its share of admiring glances and comments wherever it goes. To describe it as “cheap” would be to insult the intelligence of our readers, but its BIN is not without precedence. It is also worth noting that with values continuing a steady climb, it could represent a pretty good investment opportunity. Hmm, a classic car that will provide an enjoyable motoring experience and will continue to appreciate in coming years. I can’t see a downside to that equation, can you?

Comments

  1. Avatar Stan

    Amazing Pontiac. Wild rear bumper.

    Like 7
  2. Avatar Jim Smith

    Not a true “survivor”, but a very nice example of a good-looking car.

    Like 4
  3. Avatar Lynn Dockey Member

    The 72 strike was tough on the Camaro/Firebird. When the line stopped and then restarted all the cars that were on it were scrapped. New for 73 safety regulations made all the 72’s unsellable. Lots of pieces went to the shredder. Read the book Echoes of Norwood.

    Like 5
    • Avatar Rick

      It’s a wonder someone hasn’t written a book about the fallout from the Norwood Jewell UAW scandal.

      Like 0
      • Avatar Lynn Dockey Member

        Different Norwood. I’m talking about the factory in Ohio where Camaros and firebirds were made. Norwood jewell was a uaw big shot

        Like 1
  4. Avatar Motorcityman

    One of my dream cars.
    Firebirds, 2 seater AMXs and a Challenger/Cuda
    I have a Red 2012 Challenger PLUS 6 speed manual with only 42,000 miles now.

    Like 3
  5. Avatar Jimbosidecar

    The best looking of all Pontiac Trans-Ams in my opinion

    Like 6
  6. Avatar Howie

    Yes very nice but pricey, also has a Camaro 4 sale.

    Like 0
  7. Avatar Tom

    Now that’s what I’m talking about,But my wife says no..haha

    Like 0
    • Avatar Lynn Dockey Member

      They stopped making TA s but they didn’t stop making women.

      Like 5
    • Avatar robert semrad

      Pack her bags…..open the door…..point

      Like 5
  8. Avatar Rick

    @ Lynn Dockey Yep, Norwood Jewell the big shot shot himself in the foot. Big time.

    Like 0
  9. Avatar douglas hunt

    my favorite year for a Trans Am, I love these front ends…..
    I wonder if it came in a 4speed? I was 10 years old, when it was born, and still wanted one when i was 20 but alas it was not to be

    Like 0
  10. Avatar Sfm5

    Other than a ’69 TA, this era would be my choice for a Trans Am. A 3rd pedal with a Super Duty would be the only thing better. Nice clean car that will likely sell at close to this price level!

    Like 0
  11. Avatar Roland Schoenke

    I’d just add a shift kit, and it would be perfect..

    Like 0

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