You can sometimes look at a classic and ask yourself what’s not to like about it. This 1975 Pontiac Trans Am is an example of that philosophy, because apart from a single interior flaw, it ticks the boxes as a low-mileage survivor. Lifting its hood reveals a 400ci V8, teamed with the desirable four-speed manual transmission. The odometer reading of 65,000 miles and the excellent presentation are the icing on the cake. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Trans Am listed here on Craigslist in Spokane, Washington. The seller set their price for this classic at $25,750.
The 1975 model year brought one of the most profound changes to Pontiac’s Second Generation Firebird range. The company changed the rear window configuration, installing wrap-around glass that would remain a feature until production ended in 1981. The company also relocated the front turning signals from the valance to the split grilles, helping buyers to distinguish the latest offering from the previous model year. The seller indicates that this ’75 Trans Am is a survivor, stating that its panels are original. It has never suffered rust or accident damage, but it is unclear whether it has ever been cosmetically refreshed. The Sterling Silver paint is consistent across the exterior, with no evidence of significant deterioration. The panels are straight, and the graphics are crisp and clean. The trim and glass are impressive, and the iconic Honeycomb wheels are spotless.
Opening this Trans Am’s doors reveals one of the car’s few genuine flaws. The driver’s side seatcover has split badly and has reached the point of no return. Slipcovers would hide the problem. However, when a classic presents this impressively, I believe an investment of approximately $460 for a pair of replacement front covers is justified. If the new owner wished to throw caution to the wind, they could spend an extra $330 on a matching rear cover to ensure color and wear consistency. Otherwise, the presentation is extremely tidy, and I would consider it above-average for a car of this vintage. The dash and pad are excellent, the plastic is in good condition, and the carpet is very presentable. The seller added a modern CD stereo in place of the factory AM/FM radio. However, it remains largely original, featuring power windows, power locks, a tilt wheel, a rear console, and a factory 8-track player.
Pontiac offered 1975 Trans Am buyers the 400ci V8 as the sole engine at the start of the model year, although the 455 returned mid-year and remained available through the end of 1976. This Trans Am features its numbers-matching 400ci V8, four-speed manual transmission, power steering, and power front disc brakes. The seller admits that the V8 wears a different intake and cylinder heads, but doesn’t explain why. The 400 delivered a respectable 185hp and 315 ft/lbs of torque at a time when many V8s could do little but transform fuel into noise. The seller doesn’t mention evidence verifying their mileage claim, but the overall condition makes the figure plausible. The Trans Am drives exceptionally well, potentially allowing the buyer to fly in and drive it home.
The question I raised initially is what is not to like about this 1975 Trans Am. If the buyer replaced the front seatcovers, there is little about its appearance warranting criticism. Although cars from this period weren’t fire-breathing monsters, this Pontiac’s drivetrain configuration would still provide enjoyable motoring, with the V8 making all of the right noises. The seller’s price looks quite competitive, especially at a time when values are rising steadily. The Trans Am has only been on the market for around one day, but are you tempted to give it a new home?
I’ve often wondered what those honey comb rims would look like on a 1970 dodge super bee, the two themes match.
Very nicely preserved Trans Am with great color combination. I would repair the front seat and remove the T/A from the front of 400 on the hood scoop. Pontiac didn’t add that until the 77 model and it read T/A 6.6.