In 1978, the Trans Am variant dominated Pontiac Firebird sales, outselling the Esprit by more than 2:1. Its starring role in the 1977 film Smokey and the Bandit undoubtedly helped the Trans Am’s cause. The seller suggests that with the additional parts they hold, the buyer could easily transform this 1978 Firebird Esprit into a Bandit Tribute. However, some readers will believe that preservation is a better option, considering how nicely it presents. The seller has listed the Esprit here on eBay in Bunker Hill, West Virginia. They’ve set their BIN at $18,500 with the option to make an offer.
After a fairly major restyle in 1977, Pontiac made only minor cosmetic changes to its Firebird range in 1978. The grille was the main beneficiary, receiving a cross-hatch design to replace the previous honeycomb appearance. The Trans Am continued to dominate production numbers, with the company selling 93,341 examples compared to the Esprit’s 36,926. This 1978 Esprit looks stunning in Platinum, with the T-Top and Snowflake wheels accentuating its good looks. The hood features a “screaming chicken” decal that looks crisp and clean. The paint shines impressively, with no evidence of patchiness. The panels are straight, and although the images are quite poor, I see no obvious signs of rust problems. The seller raises an intriguing possibility for potential buyers to consider. They have a selection of parts, including a Trans Am hood scoop and fender spoilers, suggesting the buyer could use these items to build a Bandit Tribute. They aren’t included and would be extra-cost items.
Powering this Firebird is a 350ci V8 producing a factory-claimed 170hp and 270 ft/lbs of torque when the car was new. A three-speed automatic transmission handles shifting, and the car also has power steering and power front disc brakes. The seller states that this classic is no longer numbers-matching. The 350 is a Crate Motor installed by the previous owner. It is unclear how many miles it has clocked since, but the seller states that the odometer reading of 110,000 miles is accurate. They include significant original paperwork such as the Build Sheet and confirm that this Esprit runs and drives extremely well.
I admire the consistency of this Pontiac, because its interior is as impressive as its exterior. Trimmed in Black vinyl, it is almost beyond criticism. The upholstered surfaces and carpet appear free from wear, and usually prone items like the dash, pad, console, and plastic haven’t succumbed to UV exposure or abuse. The faux woodgrain is excellent, and those seeking a comfortable motoring experience will welcome the air conditioning, power windows, cruise control, and AM/FM radio/cassette player.
It will be fascinating to gauge your response, because I know that we have many readers who prize nothing more than a classic’s originality. I want to know how many of you would buy the additional parts the seller offers to transform this 1978 Firebird Esprit into a Bandit Tribute. The process would involve more than simply fitting the parts, because it would also require a color change to Starlight Black. We’re potentially getting into expensive territory if the buyer isn’t into DIY, and once you factor in the seller’s price, you could buy a nice genuine Trans Am for about the same amount. That makes me wonder whether it’s worth it. What do you think?
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