General Motors arrived late to the pony car party, but that doesn’t mean its Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird weren’t worthy competition for Ford’s Mustang. The two badges stole sales from the Mustang, and buyers could order them with a bewildering assortment of engines, transmissions, and other optional extras. This 1968 Pontiac Firebird 400 Convertible is a perfect example of that philosophy, and it presents superbly following a cosmetic refresh and a few tasteful and reversible upgrades. It would suit an enthusiast seeking a spotless driver and is listed here on eBay in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Bidding has raced beyond the reserve to sit at $25,300.
Spending a five-figure sum on a classic car involves an element of risk, but that appears to be minimized with this Firebird. The seller states it has always been garage-kept, and the lack of visible corrosion across every aspect of the vehicle suggests it is probably rust-free. There are no guarantees, but an in-person inspection should reveal the truth. They say it underwent a recent light cosmetic refresh, including a repaint in its original shade of Mayfair Maize. A hood tach, hood scoops, and a new Black soft-top were fitted during that process, and the result is hard to criticize. The paint possesses an impressive depth of color and shine, with no visible flaws in it or the steel it coats. The panels are laser straight, and the top fits tightly. The chrome is in as-new condition, and the glass appears flawless. The Rally II wheels and redline tires are later additions, but they perfectly suit the character of a car that seems to need nothing.
Pontiac offered 1968 Firebird buyers a broad selection of engines, and this classic hosts its original 400ci V8. It feeds 330hp and 430 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission, and while the photos confirm this car features power steering, it is unclear whether the brakes receive similar assistance. Ford produced faster examples of the Mustang GT in 1968, but this car’s ability to cover the ¼-mile in 14.6 seconds wouldn’t cause shame. It is unclear whether the drivetrain has received any significant work, like a rebuild, but the seller indicates the car is in excellent mechanical health. They describe the driving experience as “amazing,” a statement I have no trouble believing. It appears to be a car where flying in and driving home is viable.
This Firebird’s exterior isn’t the only aspect of the car receiving recent love. The seller lavished attention on the interior, completing a retrim in Black vinyl. Its presentation is all you would expect following such attention, with no evidence of wear or other issues. The dash, pad, and console are spotless, and the faux woodgrain shows no signs of aging. It isn’t weighed down with factory options or aftermarket additions, but the original AM radio should relieve boredom if the new owner tires of the tune being sung by that beautiful V8.
I have never hidden the fact that I prefer my classic cars original and wearing a Blue Oval badge. However, I have never shied away from the fact that I have an affection for the First and Second Generation Firebird. There is something indefinable about the styling that I feel gives them an edge over their Camaro cousins. You may disagree, and I will always respect the thoughts of others where opinions are subjective. This one is a gem and would suit an enthusiast seeking a high-end driver. It has already attracted forty-five bids, confirming my opinion isn’t a lone voice in the wilderness. Even if you aren’t a fan, would you consider making a play for this 1968 Firebird 400 Convertible if you have the available funds? I would hardly blame you if your answer is “yes.” I know I would.
Looks ok, I’d buy a 68 Camaro for the money.
Find one in this shape for 25 grand
I think the person who snags this car will be getting a steal. What a sharp looking car. I’m a Mopar fan who has a soft spot for Pontiacs. A 1st generation Firebird is a favorite. At this juncture I am not able to entertain the thought of purchasing this one. Wish I could, because I would go ahead and get it. I’m also a convertible freak, almost any American built Convertible starts my mouth watering, don’t care if it has a Pentastar, a Blue Oval, GM badge or the AMC emblem. I like convertibles.
Who ever wins this car, enjoy it.
Dash photo’s show it as a factory air car, however it is lacking all the under-hood hardware!
If it were factory air it would have a vent above the HVAC controls.
All ’68 Firebirds had the A/C-style diffusers at either end of the lower dash. If this car had been built with factory A/C, then there would be the addition of a horizontal center vent above the HVAC controls.
Nicely written article! Great looking Pontiac, and the money sounds right…Should be a quick sale
I’d be very careful with the purchase of this one. Beautiful car, no doubt. The price is very reasonable, that being said, my caution flag goes up. This car should be closely inspected in person, and on a lift. What shape is the frame or unibody in? Do the #’s match on the car? Nothing said about the driveline, that’s another question. I say Buyer beware until it’s thoroughly checked out.
With 68 dropping vent windows, they kept the air vents on either end of the dash to provide upper torso airflow. Probably cheaper to manufacture than making 2 separate lower instrument panels, as well
Over 39k now with 3 days left… nice ‘bird but as usual out of reach.
I agree JC…..when first listed it was $25k……now it’s over $40……..
If it wasn’t a convertible.
I would take this over the ’68 GTO convertible also featured here on BF.
This is a very nice looking one in the pictures and the seller seems to have refreshed all of the items needed. However, like all classic cars, you should NEVER buy one without a personal or professional 3rd party inspection. If you don’t know what you are looking at, then bring a friend, or hire someone who does. There are people who specialize in particular makes and models. It’s definitely worth the money to have it looked at, especially when it gets up there in price. There are people who specialize in the history of certain vehicles too. In this case, does this firebird have PHS documentarian? That’s Pontiac Historical Society. Again, it looks like a great car, but like any other classic or specialty vehicle, you should check it out thoroughly.
Cool > Firebird much nicer than a Camaro :)
Engine is painted with an incorrect shade of blue. For the 1966 model year and beyond, Pontiac painted their Pontiac developed/built engines with a medium metallic blue rather than the light powder blue on pre-1966 engines.
You are correct. However, a VERY easy cosmetic fix on this absolute gem. I say hell yes on this bird!!!
Always been partial to these birds, owned one for 20 years
It was too beautiful to use
Couldn’t go anywhere without drawing too much attention and lost the interest for cars and coffee
Sold it when i needed funds for a commercial renovation
Storage and upkeep were minimal but now i get monthly revenue and haven’t worked in 5 years
I loved the firebird but this life is better
As i look at this firebird , i wouldn’t buy it but someone will get a nice cruiser …
Very very nice car but only one thing turns me off from buying it it has no air conditioning
You people should all drive a Gremlin it’s much more you speed….I’ve had a 68 firebird 400 for going on 44 years ! LoL