Considering what a mundane period the mid-seventies was in the domestic auto industry, it’s almost hard to believe a car like the Pontiac Can Am even existed, and it just barely did. Introduced midway through the 1977 cycle, the Pontiac had originally been intended to produce 5,000 units, but that number was cut way short when a mold for the rear spoiler broke. While the exact number made remains a mystery, estimates suggest that between 1,133 and 1,377 of these cars were manufactured, making it an exciting rarity among Poncho enthusiasts. This 1977 Can-Am here on Craigslist needs a complete restoration, so if you’ve got the skills and funds, it’s in Londonderry, New Hampshire, and priced at $7,500. Jack M., thanks for finding this rarity and sending us the tip here!
This car was based on the Pontiac LeMans, and selecting code WW3 on the options list got you the Can-Am package, which exponentially improved the exterior appearance. The bodies were painted Cameo White and originally featured yellow, red, and orange decals, along with side window louvers and a rear deck spoiler. The seller is quick to point out that he realizes this one is ugly in its present state, but he also assures potential buyers that the metal remains solid throughout. Hopefully, the panels will all be salvageable and smooth out without too much effort, and then receive some fresh paint.
California buyers got the Oldsmobile-sourced 403 V8, but most of these came with Pontiac’s 400 powerplant, corporately known as the W72. It was borrowed from the Trans Am and produced 200 horsepower, 20 more than the standard 400 found in the base LeMans. The Can-Am also featured a hole in its hood for the shaker to protrude through, but that component is missing here, and the seller also indicates that the engine is locked up. In addition, he reveals that this car has been sitting for the past 32 years, so it’s been a very long time since this Pontiac was last on the road.
Although the interior will need attention, most of it still appears to be there, and a photograph shows a replacement dashboard that has yet to be installed. This one also includes power windows, door locks, cruise control, and a tilt steering column, so there are some desirable accessories that weren’t found on nearly all vehicles back then. Plenty of work awaits the buyer here, but this one deserves to be saved, and I hope this car ends up in the hands of someone who will make it like new again. Is this 1977 Pontiac Can-Am one you’d consider taking on as a project?
I’ve always been a closeted fan of this particular colonnade. I hope someone steps up to give it a fresh start.
looks like its missing the inner fender on dr side ?
When you’re done touching ever inch of this car? You’ll have a beautiful $25,000 Pontiac Can-Am.