The scenario of a stalled project is one we’re all familiar with. Usually, you hope to find out before you invest too much money that a project isn’t for you, but life doesn’t always work out that way. This 1975 Pontiac Ventura Sprint appears to have been a well-preserved survivor before it underwent a partial restoration by its owner, who did pony up and spend almost $6,000 on an engine rebuild. However, according to the listing, the seller’s partner in crime – his son – moved out of state for work and he’s since lost interest in the restoration. Find the Ventura here on craigslist for $6,000. Thanks to Barn Finds reader T.J. for the find. 

I like this car just for having its original “Sprint” decals still adhered to the body; there can’t be many of those left. However, there’s a lot more than just some stickers to appreciate, as the Pontiac is in respectable shape overall for not having been completely restored. The interior isn’t perfect but there’s nothing here you can’t live with indefinitely. The black vinyl upholstery has some tears and splits but surprisingly, the driver’s seat is in better shape than the passenger bucket. The console appears to be in excellent nick, and the seller confirms that the dash is uncracked.

Now, to the engine: the seller had the Buick 350 four-barrel engine rebuilt and it’s now sitting, ready for installation. The engine was rebuilt by Pacific Auto Machine in Renton, Washington. According to the invoice, the seller did indeed put down close to $6,000 for the rebuild, so he’s into this project for a fair amount – in fact, the asking price just covers that expense and not anything else he’s rebuilt or repaired. The paint is said to be original, so the good news is the next owner won’t have to worry about freshening up the cosmetics. The windshield is cracked, but it hasn’t happened recently: the seller admits the Pontiac has been off the road and in storage for 20 years.

The Pontiac comes equipped with a floor shift automatic transmission with a center console; tilt steering column; dual racing mirrors; TH350 transmission; 2:73 Posi-Traction rear end; Rally II wheels with trim rings; and a hood tachometer added post-factory. While there is some moderately heavy lifting required to get this Pontiac back on the road, the asking price seems quite fair for what you’re getting. While this model is not likely to appreciate much over the next few years, you also likely won’t lose any money, especially with the previous owner eating the cost of the engine rebuild.