A genuine Bandit Edition Trans Am is always going to turn heads, even when it needs the kind of attention this 1978 example is asking for. Listed as a full-restoration project, this factory black-and-gold Trans Am comes with its Pontiac 400 cubic-inch V8, an automatic transmission, and the unmistakable presence that made these cars icons in the first place. While the seller keeps the description brief, the essentials are there—this is a true Trans Am with the right engine, the right year, and the right look for someone who has the time and vision to bring it back to life. You can see it listed here on eBay, thanks for the tip Curvette!

The car carries a clean title and is equipped with T-tops, power features, and factory air conditioning. The interior is black, and the car is said to have been previously registered overseas before returning stateside. A real Y82/Y84-style Bandit Trans Am is a desirable find, so even a project example like this one is likely to attract collectors or hobbyists who have been hunting for a worthy candidate. The seller notes that a full restoration will be required, but doesn’t elaborate on mechanical or structural condition beyond confirming that the 400 cubic-inch Pontiac engine is present.

Buyers will also want to note that the listing specifies physical pickup only, meaning transport arrangements are entirely on the next owner. Mileage isn’t provided, and with the car having spent time overseas, it may have an interesting ownership trail that a new caretaker could dig into. Still, the core appeal isn’t about numbers—it’s about the chance to revive one of the most recognizable American performance cars of the 1970s.

With features such as power windows, power locks, a rear spoiler, sunroof-style T-tops, climate control, tilt steering, and an AM/FM stereo, this Trans Am carries the equipment buyers expect from a well-optioned ’78. But all of it will need attention, making this a proper ground-up restoration candidate rather than a weekend refresher.

For someone searching for a Bandit Edition they can build exactly how they want—factory-spec, restomod, or something in between—this project opens the door. A real black 400-powered Trans Am doesn’t come along every day, especially one offered as a blank slate for its next chapter.

Would you restore this Bandit to showroom glory or build it into a personalized tribute?