It may not possess quite the cachet of a Trans Am, but this 1975 Pontiac Firebird Esprit deserves a close look. Its overall condition is extremely tidy, and its engine bay houses a 350ci V8. With 60,000 original miles on the clock, the seller’s claim that it drives like it did when it rolled off the showroom floor is believable. It appears to be a turnkey classic, and I must say, a big thank you to Barn Finder Rocco B for spotting the Firebird listed here on Craigslist in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The seller set their price for this frisky Firebird at $22,000 OBO.
The 1975 model year saw Pontiac make one of the most significant styling changes to the Second Generation Firebird range since its 1970 model year introduction. It modified the C-Pillars to accommodate a wrap-around rear window. This not only gave cars a lighter appearance but also improved rearward visibility. Otherwise, it was essentially business as usual. Ordered in Cameo White, this ’75 Firebird is the Esprit variant. The seller describes the car as largely original, and the vintage wheels appear to be the only exterior upgrade. The paint shines nicely and hasn’t become baked by the New Mexico sun. It isn’t perfect, but if this Esprit is a genuine survivor, the lack of deterioration is impressive. The dry climate has protected this classic from rust, and the panels are straight. There are no glaring trim issues, and the glass is clear.
Powering this Firebird is a 350ci V8 that is a slight mystery. Buyers ordering a ’75 Esprit could select from two versions, and it is unclear which one this is. The two-barrel version delivered 155hp, and the four-barrel placed 175hp at the driver’s disposal. The car also features a three-speed Hydramatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The seller let their wallet do the talking in April, splashing their cash on new tires, brake rotors, drums, shoes, and pads, wheel bearings, shocks, a dual exhaust, plugs, oil, and a filter. Therefore, it is unsurprising that this beauty runs and drives as nicely as it did in 1975. They don’t mention evidence supporting their mileage claim, but the car’s overall condition makes the figure plausible.
This Firebird’s interior adds a further layer of mystery. It is trimmed in what appears to be Saddle cloth. That material appears on the seats, the headliner, and the door trim inserts. The reason it stands out is that my resources suggest that this material wasn’t an option in 1975. However, I am happy to be corrected if I’ve made a glaring error. Overall, the presentation is extremely nice, and the seller even lifts the dash cover to reveal a crack-free pad. It should also be pretty comfortable, thanks to the air conditioning, tilt wheel, and the aftermarket stereo.
This 1975 Pontiac Firebird Esprit could be ideal for enthusiasts seeking a turnkey classic. It has no significant cosmetic shortcomings, and life in New Mexico has allowed it to avoid the rust issues that often plague these vehicles. The V8 will ensure effortless motoring, while turning on the A/C will keep occupants as cool as a cucumber. The seller’s price seems slightly optimistic, but that statement probably deserves qualification. If the mileage claim is verifiable, that could be enough to justify the figure. Otherwise, with the seller appearing flexible, negotiating a lower price might be possible. It is worth asking that question. After all, what’s the worst they can say?
It’s nice, but the asking price is optimistic, the ad now reads $23,500. This is a low option car, yes it has AC, but no power windows, power door locks or even a tilt column. There is a lot of competition at that price range.
Steve R