Beauty is often more than skin-deep, which is undoubtedly the case with this 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. Its paint shade is iconic, but the seller’s decision to add fuel injection and other upgrades to its 400ci V8 will attract enthusiasts who prize nothing more than outright performance. The new owner can choose to preserve this classic or to perform a cosmetic refresh to lift the overall appearance. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this Pontiac listed here on eBay in Severna Park, Maryland. The seller set their BIN at $20,000 with the option to make an offer.

The word “iconic” is one of the most overused in the classic world, but there are few better to describe a Trans Am from this period featuring Starlight Black paint and Gold decals. This car ticks those boxes, but I’m undecided about the addition of Corvette alloy wheels. Viewed from a distance, this Pontiac makes a positive impression. However, a close inspection reveals numerous minor paint flaws and imperfections. The seller is candid about these issues, but with no significant dings or dents, this classic is a prime candidate for a mild cosmetic restoration. One piece of positive news is that the process won’t involve a grinder or a welder, because this Pontiac is rust-free. The plastic hasn’t succumbed to UV exposure or age, and the glass is clear.

Okay, we’ve reached the point where things become serious with this Trans Am. Lifting the hood reveals a 1967-vintage 400ci V8 that inhales via an FI-Tech fuel injection system for better response and usability. The motor also features an upgraded camshaft and headers. Improved breathing is the best way to unleash extra ponies, which will undoubtedly prove the case with this Pontiac. The power feeds to a 3.73 Posi rear end via a three-speed automatic transmission, with power-assisted steering and brakes lightening the driver’s load. The seller didn’t limit their attention to the drivetrain, because they also fitted new suspension bushings, brake lines, and other components. They supply no information regarding the Trans Am’s health, but I see nothing to suggest that the news would be anything but positive.

This Pontiac’s interior is a sea of Red in cloth, vinyl, and plastic. The exception is the headliner, which is Black. The interior is very presentable, with wheel deterioration the only apparent issue. The dash and pad are excellent, the cloth and vinyl are free from wear, and there is no UV damage. This classic no longer features air conditioning, but the buyer receives power windows, a tilt wheel, and an upgraded CD stereo.

The fact that this 1979 Pontiac Trans Am is rock-solid is a notable achievement, considering many have developed rust in the floors and trunk pan. Its paint isn’t great, but the lack of panel imperfections means that lifting the car’s appearance would be straightforward and relatively inexpensive. The engine is the undoubted star of the show, promising exceptional performance. That is why I believe that this Trans Am deserves a cosmetic refresh, because that would make it a “total” package.