The biggest criticism leveled at cars from The Malaise Era is that they typically represented a triumph of style over substance. Classics like this 1980 Pontiac Trans Am possessed the iconic look but were sure to disappoint their owners when pointed at a ¼-mile. However, this particular Trans Am is an exception to that rule courtesy of the supercharger that is bolted to its V8. That should give it the type of performance it deserves, and that will plaster a smile on the new owner’s face. The seller has listed the Pontiac here on eBay in McAllen, Texas. It has received two bids that have pushed the price to $18,600 and, if you are sorely tempted, the seller’s decision to list it with No Reserve could make it irresistible.

There are few American classics more instantly recognizable than the Second Generation Pontiac Trans Am. This is particularly true if the first owner ordered their car in Starlight Black with the Gold decals and the Screaming Chicken on the hood. This car immediately ticks those boxes, along with the one beside the phrase “rust-free.” It has spent its time in a dry climate, and the undercoat has also helped its cause no end. The seller treated the paint to a correction that left it as an 8.5/10 vehicle. There is little to criticize about its appearance, with the paint shining nicely, and the decals crips and clean. The glass is clear, there is no plastic deterioration, and the car rolls on new 17″ Snowflake wheels.

The 1980 Trans Am was unquestionably a triumph of style over substance. The best that an owner could expect from the range-topping turbocharged 4.9-liter V8 was 210hp, 345 ft/lbs of torque, and a ¼-mile ET in the 16-second region. However, this Pontiac should leave the opposition eating its dust, because lifting its hood reveals a 403ci V8 wearing a TorqStorm supercharger. The seller invested $4,000 in the kit alone, adding headers, a dual exhaust, and an MSD ignition system for a strong and consistent spark. They don’t quote a power figure, but it is fair to expect far more ponies under the right foot than the car produced when it left the factory. Further upgrades include a five-speed Tremec transmission, new brakes, and a new Holley carburetor. The seller has clocked 4,000 miles behind the wheel since the conversion, reporting no issues or problems. They supply this YouTube video of the car in action and, although the audio is poor, I didn’t spot anything to cause concerns.

If you look beyond the aftermarket gauges mounted below the dash and within the hood scoop, there is little to indicate the performance potential this Trans Am possesses. The cloth trim looks remarkable for its age, with no significant wear. The dash looks nice, the carpet is clean, and there is no evidence of broken plastic. It isn’t perfect, because the pad has succumbed to the Texas sun. However, throwing on a cover would leave this interior looking presentable if the new owner doesn’t wish to splash $800 on a replacement pad.

I am surprised that this 1980 Pontiac Trans Am has only received two bids because it offers a perfect blend of iconic looks and exceptional performance. However, the situation could change at any time, because the listing has received over 600 views in the past day. Add the Watch List tally of sixty into the mix and it appears that some potential buyers might be biding their time, and will strike in the auction’s dying moments. Would that be your approach, or would you jump in with all guns blazing?