The Firebird was Pontiac’s variation on the Chevy Camaro which had been conceived to do battle with the successful new Ford Mustang. Because they shared the same platform, the Firebird and Camaro were on the same production cycle, 1967-69 for the first generation. This ’69 Firebird is said to be a running car that you could fix up while you drive it, but the “fix-ups” largely pertain to the body and paint. Located in Manahawkin, New Jersey, this project is available here on eBay where the bidding has only reached $2,419 with the reserve still in play.
Pontiac’s 350 cubic inch V8 was in its second year of the Firebird, which replaced the 326 used in 1967. The seller doesn’t mention which version of the 350 is in this car (2 vs. 4-barrel carburetor). We’re going to go with the former which – with a 4-speed manual – saw production of under 8,500 units, while more than five times as many had an automatic transmission. So, the seller’s car would be somewhere in the minority when it comes to the number surviving today.
When I look at this rusty automobile, I see old burgundy paint that has plenty of patina. Yet the seller says, “The car is painted in a striking red color that is sure to turn heads”. Are we talking about the same vehicle? While the patina is one thing, the corrosion is another. The passenger side quarter panel has been mostly chewed away and the other side is headed in that direction. But the seller is including new quarters and front fenders (which must need swapping, as well). BTW, it wears the 1970s Chevy Rally wheels nicely!
On the other hand, the interior looks to be in mostly good condition. You might want to replace the carpeting, but that’s not at the top of the to-do list. The seller has had the car for about two years and claims that it has been well-maintained and runs as it should. It’s a numbers-matching auto that will require some brake work before using it very much. If the indicated mileage of 70,000 is accurate, this Pontiac should have some mechanical life left before any dismantling should be required.
That underside looks pretty crusty. I would pass.
Are they Chevy rally wheels?
Never mind. Read the article after looking at the pics.
At $7500 or less this is a great project. Expect the worst from the underside but when you get done you will have a very desirable car with that factory 4 speed.
$8,467 was the last bid as it closed without the reserve being met!
Almost bought one with a 326 for my first bought by me car. 1750usd was too much for that nose.
I saw 1st gen firebirds on tv or movies but the nose I remember and liked best is flush across the front.
Anyone else like the older 1st gen nose when this model came out but like them both now too? 😊
Who wrote that EBay car description? Stevie Wonder? It’s a good potential project, but keep the sales BS out of the car’s condition …. Wow!