This first photo tells us a lot about the story behind this 1973 Pontiac Firebird 350. The seller states that it is a garage-kept classic, and if this is the spot where it spends its downtime, it is hardly surprising that it presents so well. It appears to have no pressing needs, with sparkling paint, a healthy drivetrain, and a spotless interior. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting the Firebird listed here on Craigslist in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. You could drive it home after handing the seller $27,000.
The 1973 Firebird is a car that almost “never was.” A 1972 industrial dispute almost led to General Motors discontinuing production of the Firebird and Camaro cousins, but its reluctance to do so proved a wise decision. Firebird sales rebounded strongly in 1973, with the badge setting new records each year for the rest of the decade. New for 1973 was the Buccaneer Red paint that graces this car’s exterior. The seller doesn’t mention a restoration history, but the sparkling paint and lack of cosmetic shortcomings suggest it may have received a refresh. The garage-kept aspect is crucial because it has protected this Firebird from the harsh climactic conditions that can lead to corrosion. There is no evidence of problems, with the underside shots revealing spotlessly clean and solid floors. The trim and glass are in good order, and the Ram Air hood and Rally II wheels add a sense of purpose.
Since this Firebird is a Formula 350, you probably won’t be surprised to learn that this is the capacity of the V8 occupying its engine bay. The first owner teamed the 350 with a three-speed automatic transmission and power-assisted steering and brakes. This engine produces 175hp and 280 ft/lbs of torque, with the second representing a slight improvement over the previous year’s torque number. Interestingly, the 1973 Formula 350 gained over 40 lbs over the 1972 model as Pontiac sought to comply with tighter safety regulations. However, its ability to cover the ¼-mile in 16.6 seconds is marginally better than its predecessor’s 16.9 seconds to complete the same journey. We’ve seen a recent trend where sellers have shortchanged themselves by providing limited information, and this Firebird continues that. Its mechanical health is unknown, and it is unclear whether it is numbers-matching. However, if visual indications are an accurate guide, the news with this classic should be positive.
The first owner ordered this Firebird with the Black deluxe interior, adding air conditioning and an AM radio for greater comfort. Finding anything to criticize is seemingly impossible. The vinyl is free from wear and distress, and the time spent in the garage has protected everything from the UV rays that often exact a heavy toll on items like the dash pad and plastic. The back seat looks like it may never have seen occupants, and I can’t spot any aftermarket additions.
Although values for Pontiac’s 1973 Firebird Formula 350 have dropped marginally during the past year, the fall hasn’t been dramatic. The situation now appears stable, which may indicate a potential rise is on the horizon. The seller’s price is above what both Hagerty and NADA suggest, but it is consistent with recent successful sales. With those thoughts in mind, would you consider paying $27,000 for this classic?
It’s only worth what a buyer is willing to pay for it but frankly this is extraordinarily nicer than more than a few of the same vintage Camaros and Mustangs with like-sized mechanicals being auctioned at the same or higher prices.
Is it too good to be true?
A beautiful car and design. This to me is well worth it as a fair price for a clean vehicle.
Good luck with sale !
I always thought that the Formula was the better looking car, when compared with the TA. I don’t know if the performance was the same, I’m sure the Pontiac guys will know. Other than the graphics, what was the main difference?
The Trans Am always had a shaker hood and the top engines available. Ram Air in 70, HOs in 71 and 72, and the optional SD in 73 and 74.
Depending on the year, the Formula’s base engine was either a smaller displacement engine or lower output if it was the same size as the Trans Am, though the Formula could be ordered with the same higher output engines. The Formula also came standard with an open (non-limited slip) rear end, smaller diameter wheels and sway bars. These differences were for the early-70’s, such as the car featured above, I’m not sure about performance differences in the later 1970’s.
Steve R
WOW . i dont know whether to put in my living room or take it cruising
I love it but the lack of more (clear) photos and not much description makes me wonder. Also, at least for me, the price seems almost too low for this car. If I was thinking about buying it I’d send an inspector to look at it for me as it’s hundreds of miles from where I live. This is a car I should have bought in 1973 when I had the money but bought something else.
Bottom side looks spotless- seller possibly understating this cars condition.
Spectacularly immaculate!……..ESPECIALLY the under-carriage, looking like it just got its red oxide primer undercoat. Didn’t see any shots of the VIN tag but red oxide was the practice @ the Van Nuys Final Assembly Plant.
A nice set of period correct honey comb wheels and it would be perfect
Almost, for me a 4speed would be a dream, even better a 455 but then of course the $$$$ goes thru the roof
The front end/hood treatment is fantastic to me
Beautiful car and fair price
I would be just echoing what others have already said. I think it will sell fast.
I just might have to break down and BUY this girl!
This is an extra clean car at a fair price. I owned a 1970 Formula 400. I wish the Formula Firebird stayed 400. I wonder if this is a Pontiac 350 or a Chevy 350. Someone will get a clean car. A pair of high compression heads for it should be easily found. I would do that.
Love the car, hate the ad.
I have always loved how these look with that hood. This car looks absolutely gorgeous!
It is a beautiful car and would be nice to drive . The down side to this car is it will need a new or rebuild engine and trany soon . the engines from this time were good for about 125000 thousand to 150000 miles. who ever buys this should keep that in mind.