Original Paint: 1978 Pontiac Trans Am

We’re no strangers to Second Generation Pontiac Trans Ams at Barn Finds, with some better than others. This 1978 example will appeal to purists as a numbers-matching survivor wearing its original paint. Its presentation is quite impressive, but there is scope for a minor, affordable improvement if the new owner wishes to enhance the appearance. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Trans Am listed here on eBay in Cheswick, Pennsylvania. The solitary bid of $500 is, unsurprisingly, below the reserve. The seller also provides a BIN option of $55,995 for those wishing to bypass the auction process.

After performing a fairly significant facelift for the 1977 model year, Pontiac only performed a few minor cosmetic updates to the Firebird range for 1978. These included a revised grille and a new font style for the decals on the Trans Am. This car features those updates and presents nicely in iconic Starlight Black. The seller states that the paint is original, making its appearance particularly noteworthy if that is the case. It retains a warm shine, and any defects are relatively minor. The panels are as straight as an arrow, and the underside shots reveal no rust in the typically prone locations. It features the “Screaming Chicken” on the hood, and like the remaining decals, it looks impressively crisp. The first owner ordered the car with a T-Top, and since it is a Fisher Top, this confirms that the Trans Am left the factory later in the model year, after the company transitioned from the original Hurst T-Top. The tinted glass looks clear, and the Snowflake wheels are excellent.

Many readers will welcome the news that lifting the Trans Am’s hood will reveal Pontiac’s 400ci V8. The first owner teamed that motor with a three-speed Hydramatic transmission, a Safe-T-Track rear end, power steering, and power front disc brakes. Those considering the investment potential of this Trans Am will welcome the news that it is numbers-matching. The listing indicates an odometer reading of 44,300 miles. While the seller doesn’t mention any verification, the fact that this survivor spent decades with its original owner might mean the sale includes Service Records as documentation. There is PHS paperwork, and the original Window Sticker, and potential buyers will undoubtedly welcome both items. Otherwise, the buyer will slip behind the wheel of a classic that is a turnkey proposition.

The first owner obviously craved a comfortable motoring experience, loading this Trans Am’s interior with desirable factory options. The buyer receives air conditioning, power windows, “Custom” velour trim, cruise control, a remote trunk release, a tilt wheel, and a Delco AM/FM stereo radio/8-track player. The seller confirms that the A/C doesn’t blow cold, which appears to be the only functional issue. The seats look remarkably good for their age, seemingly supporting the seller’s mileage claim. The remaining upholstered surfaces are equally impressive, and there are no issues with the dash or pad. If I were to mark the interior harshly, I would note that the carpet exhibits wear and fading. It is comfortably acceptable for a survivor-grade vehicle, although some potential buyers might consider spending around $220 on a carpet set to improve the appearance. Beyond that, the interior needs nothing.

Although it isn’t perfect, this 1978 Pontiac Trans Am is a wonderful survivor deserving respect. Its condition tells the story of a classic that has been cherished throughout its life. It has avoided the scourge of aftermarket additions, and its rust-free state and mechanical good health should provide the new owner with years of motoring joy. The seller’s BIN is at the top end of the market, but it isn’t unprecedented. I hope that it heads to a new home with someone who will continue to treat it respectfully. If that person is a Barn Finds reader, it is guaranteed.