It is not unusual for parents to buy their child a first car because this helps them to ensure their most prized asset will slip behind the wheel of something safe and appropriate. However, to find a classic where it has happened twice is less common. That is the story behind this two-owner 1979 Pontiac Firebird Esprit. It isn’t perfect, but its overall condition and the 350ci V8 under the hood make it a strong candidate for a first restoration project. The Esprit is listed here on Craigslist in Long Beach, California. The seller set a price of $9,925, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Rocco B. for spotting it.

Some paint shades are subtle and restrained, which are two words that have probably never been used to describe the Code 51 Bright Yellow paint gracing this Firebird’s panels. Its impact is heightened by the color-codes Rally II wheels with their chrome trim rings and center caps. I would love to say the exterior is perfect, but the photos and listing text confirm the clearcoat is lifting in many areas. It remains presentable, but I would wager a repaint will be on the agenda for the new owner. The lack of significant panel bumps and bruises and the car’s rust-free status mean it is a prime candidate for a first or hands-on restoration. Since the issues aren’t urgent, enjoying the Esprit in its current guise in the short term is viable, with the cosmetic refresh a perfect way to occupy the time once the weather turns cold again.

The original owner purchased this Firebird for their daughter, although she rarely ventured out behind the wheel. It spent most of its life hidden away in her garage until purchased by the seller two years ago for their son. This lack of use is reflected inside this classic, with the interior presenting well for its age. The driver’s seat is split, and new covers will go onto the buyer’s shopping list. However, apart from the $430 for a replacement pair of front covers, they can keep their wallet in their pocket. The remaining upholstered surfaces are excellent, and there is no evidence of UV damage or crumbling plastic. It isn’t highly optioned, but nor are there aftermarket additions. I’m surprised the original owner didn’t order it equipped with air conditioning, but it retains its factory rear defogger and AM/FM radio/8-track player.

The seller supplies no engine photos but confirms this classic features its numbers-matching 350ci V8 and three-speed automatic transmission. The small-block should produce 165hp and 260 ft/lbs of torque. That is enough to launch the car through the ¼-mile in 17.5 seconds. The first consideration for potential buyers is that although the car retains its original catalytic converter, it requires work to pass its California smog test. The seller recently replaced every belt and hose, flushed the brake and cooling system, and installed a new master cylinder. They fitted new brakes, a new radiator, and a few new steering components. The car functions effectively as a daily driver, and while they claim it has a genuine 50,000 miles on the clock, they don’t mention supporting evidence.

The 1979 Pontiac Firebird Esprit is not as coveted as an equivalent Trans Am, but that doesn’t make it less worthy of preservation. Returning this one to its former glory should not be difficult, and with the work complete, the new owner will emerge from their workshop in a classic destined to turn heads. With the Pontiac brand nothing but a distant memory, carrying the torch with cars like this is becoming more important so future generations can understand what the automotive world lost with the company’s demise. I think that will happen, but will you be the person to ensure it does?