Rust-Free Survivor: 1978 Pontiac Trans Am

Some enthusiasts cannot tackle a restoration project, meaning a solid classic is their best option when choosing a candidate to park in their garage. The next task is to devise a list of desirable attributes. Some crave a pristine vehicle, while others focus on tidy drivers offering a relaxed ownership experience. This 1978 Pontiac Trans Am falls neatly into the second category, allowing the winning bidder to slip behind the wheel for classic motoring fun. However, lifting its presentation would be an easy and affordable task, helping this Pontiac turn heads.

The 1978 model year was one of evolution for the Second Generation Trans Am, with Pontiac performing only minor cosmetic changes. Our feature car is described as a survivor and, apart from the front bumper and a couple of minor touch-ups, is said to wear its original Cameo White paint. It is unquestionably presentable, holding a consistent shine. A close inspection reveals a few minor imperfections, but I believe that a reputable shop should be able to address these without resorting to a complete repaint. The decals look very crisp for their age, and the panels are straight. However, the best news is how remarkably clean and rust-free this Trans Am is. There is no evidence of exterior problems in prone areas like the lower quarters and rear window surround. Climbing under the car reveals floors that you could eat off. The tinted glass is clear, and the Rally II wheels continue the theme of tidy presentation.

The seller and supplied images confirm that the original owner ordered this Trans Am with the company’s 400ci V8. However, it is unclear which version it is. That means the driver could have 180hp and 325 ft/lbs of torque at their disposal, although the power figure could climb to 220hp if it is the W72 version. I have been able to confirm that the car is numbers-matching via a listing on another site, which is an important consideration if the subject turns to future investment potential. Performance was all that buyers expected at the height of The Malaise Era, with the Trans Am’s ability to produce a sub-16-second ¼-mile ET a distant memory. It isn’t all doom and gloom, because this classic has some positive attributes that increase its attractiveness. The listing suggests an odometer reading of 53,000 miles, although the seller doesn’t mention verifying evidence. They do confirm that it runs and drives perfectly, with no mechanical vices or shortcomings.

The interior images confirm that this Trans Am isn’t a trailer queen, but a survivor that has been enjoyed as its creators intended. The seller admits the carpet is beyond its best, and may require replacement if it doesn’t respond to a deep clean. Someone installed an aftermarket radio/cassette player, cutting the door trims to accommodate speakers in the process. Otherwise, the interior is unmolested and extremely tidy. The Light Blue vinyl trim is free from wear and damage, with the dash, pad, headliner, and gauge fascia equally impressive. The seller confirms that the air conditioning blows ice-cold, while the winning bidder benefits from power windows and a tilt wheel.

The demise of Pontiac means that preserving some of the company’s more iconic models has become more important if future generations are to gain insight into what the automotive world has lost. This 1978 Pontiac Tran Am is an ideal candidate because while it isn’t a trailer queen, it is a solid survivor that can see the light of day, rather than spending its days squirreled away in a garage beyond human sight. The seller has listed this Trans Am here on eBay in Pompano Beach, Florida. Forty-six bids have pushed the price beyond the reserve to $16,800. That means it is days away from finding a new home. I hope its new owner continues to preserve and appreciate this classic because it deserves nothing less.