Along with the Chevrolet Camaro, the Pontiac Firebird was redesigned in 1970. And would keep that shell and platform for 12 years. Muscle car sales cooled in the early 1970s, and the Firebird was no exception, though it rebounded through the sales success of the Trans Am later in the decade (inspired by the Smokey and the Bandit movie). The seller has a 1973 Firebird that decodes as an Esprit (the luxury model) with a 400 cubic inch V8. But a rebuilt 455 resides under the hood now, and we’re told it performs well. Located in Staten Island, New York, this not-so-mellow yellow Poncho is available here on eBay for $19,500.
The Firebird was largely unchanged in 1973 except for the beefing up of the Endura front bumper section to accommodate tightening Federal safety standards. Four models were still offered, the base, Esprit, Formula, and Trans Am, with the Esprit accounting for 37% of demand (17,250 units). A 400 V8 was the top engine available in the Esprit, but it was replaced in the seller’s car at some point with a souped-up version of a 455 (year unknown). As a result, we’re told this is a vehicle that you can drive home regardless of the distance.
This Pontiac presents very well, except that there may be issues with the lower rear quarter panels, and a set of replacements are in the trunk. A hood scoop with 455 decals is onboard, and we’re guessing that’s an addition the 400 didn’t require, necessitating a hood swap and at least a partial repaint. The black interior looks outstanding in the photos provided.
The seller must be in a hurry to sell, and the listing emphasizes the car’s low asking price compared to what he or she may have paid for it a year ago ($30,000). Perhaps you can get away with just a partial repaint after fixing the rear quarters, as the rest of the bright yellow paint appears to be quite good. Do you consider this Firebird to be a bargain?
Good looking Bird!! The yellow is a nice change!!
This is nicely done and not a bad price. Considering the year, I think a double snorkel Formula ram air hood and 4 speed would have fit the clone job better. Trunk and underneath are a bit crusty but not terrible. Looks like someone sprayed over the trunk instead of replacing the skin. I would do a very good in-person inspection underneath of the rest of it.
Needs a thorough inspection. There are more than a few signs the quality of work isn’t the greatest, but at that price it doesn’t need to be. Potential buyers need to make sure they know what they are getting. Shiny bright color are popular on pigs with lipstick.
Steve R