If you’ve been looking for a real-deal “Bandit” Trans Am to bring back to life, this 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am Y84 Special Edition might be the ticket. Finished in classic black with a tan hobnail interior, it’s a legit Y84 SE car and comes packed with options—now it just needs someone willing to do the work. You’ll find it here on eBay.
This one checks a lot of boxes for collectors: it’s a complete Special Edition car with factory power windows, power locks, air conditioning, rear defrost, and even the 8-track stereo option. While it’s a far cry from ready to hit the road, the seller notes that all the original equipment is present. The SE trim, T-top roof, and styling cues made famous by Smokey and the Bandit are all here, waiting for revival.
That said, this is very much a project. The body shows rust in the typical corners and panels, though it’s not clear how deep it runs. The drivetrain’s condition is unknown, and the car hasn’t been tested for running or driving status. It’s been in storage and is described by the seller as “basically a barn find,” so assume a full mechanical and cosmetic restoration will be necessary.
The tan hobnail interior—an iconic design in its own right—is complete but will also need reconditioning. Seats, carpets, and trim all look to have suffered the wear of time and storage, but it’s not beyond saving.
With verified Y84 status and a clean title, this Trans Am offers a solid foundation for someone who wants the real deal. These cars continue to climb in value when well-restored, and SE models are always in demand. Whether you’re dreaming of a faithful factory restoration or building your own street machine with a Bandit twist, this Firebird could be your next big project.
Would you keep the tan interior or switch things up for a modern take on this legendary muscle car?
Slush box and the 403 motor make this a lot less desirable than a 400/4spd. Looks to have the WS6 (the wider wheels are the tell on that one), but really the 79 was probably the least attractive of all the second gen F bodies. If I were looking to restore one i’d be looking for a 78 or earlier as they are a lot better looking.
How can you tell it has the 403 and not the smaller Poncho motor ( 301?)with the automatic?
The quickest way is by the location of the oil filler tube at the front of the engine between the AC compressor and the alternator.
Steve R
I agree, filler tube is in an eBay pic. Also the factory scoop will say 6.6 Litre vs T/A 6.6 for the 400 if I’m not mistaken. 301 scoop will say T/A 4.9 I think. I forget. Not sure about 1979 but I think an ‘81 will say that. I have an ‘81 4.9 scoop buried in the basement from my sisters old Tran’s Am.
Steve R is spot on as always. However, if you don’t know an oil filler tube from an alternator, you would look for a $50 credit on the window sticker (included in the photos for this one) to indicate that it would have the 301.
I didn’t know you could get that older style hood bird(which i prefer) – on a ’79.
SOLD – Best Offer Accepted.