There is something undeniably attractive about locating a project candidate that can be enjoyed immediately. It provides the best of both worlds; The buyer can indulge in immediate classic motoring pleasure, tackling their build as time and circumstances allow. Such is the case with this 1981 Pontiac Trans Am Turbo. It has avoided the rust issues that often plague these vehicles, and it runs and drives extremely well. Its needs are all cosmetic, and returning it to its former glory could be a rewarding task once we bid goodbye to summer. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Jack M. for spotting the Trans Am listed here on Craigslist in Graham, Washington. The seller set their price at $11,500, indicating they will hand over the keys to the first person to wave cash under their nose.
With production scheduled to conclude at the end of 1981, Pontiac only made minor cosmetic changes to the Second Generation Firebird range for the final model year. That approach made sense because there was little to be gained in the showroom from spending money on a vehicle that would be effectively redundant in under twelve months. This final-year Trans Am features iconic Starlight Black paint and Gold decals. The seller believes that approximately 60% of its paint is original, but the general deterioration will undoubtedly motivate the buyer to undertake a cosmetic refresh. The process could be surprisingly straightforward, because the panels are free from major bumps and bruises. However, the best news hides beneath the surface, because the underside shots confirm the Trans Am’s rust-free status. The first owner equipped the car with a T-Top, and the lack of interior moisture damage suggests the seals are in good condition. Someone added aftermarket wheels, but finding the correct ones via the usual online auction sites shouldn’t be difficult if the buyer follows a faithful approach.
Pontiac was dedicated to remaining the performance marque of the General Motors empire, even during the dreaded Malaise Era. It adopted an unusual approach in 1980 by unveiling a turbocharged version of the 301ci V8. It offered the same motor in 1981, delivering a useful 200hp and 340 ft/lbs of torque. Sadly for performance enthusiasts, buyers could only team the turbo with a three-speed automatic transmission. That was fine if you preferred a relaxed driving experience, but those wishing to squeeze the maximum from that motor undoubtedly longed for a four-speed manual transmission. This Trans Am retains its original 301 Turbo, with the seller indicating that the car runs and drives well. That will allow the buyer to hand over their cash before heading towards the horizon aboard this classic.
When I said that this Trans Am’s needs were cosmetic, I included the interior in that assessment. It must have looked stunning in its prime, with the dazzling Red trim perfectly contrasting the Black exterior. However, time hasn’t treated it kindly. The list of required parts is long, and it would probably make better financial sense to buy an interior trim kit than to purchase individual items to return this classic’s interior to its former glory. Looking beyond its cosmetic needs, the interior features a few welcome creature comforts, including air conditioning, power windows, and a tilt wheel.
Although it isn’t perfect, there is much to like about this 1981 Pontiac Trans Am Turbo. Its rust-free status is a welcome factor, and with no significant panel imperfections, it could be a strong candidate for anyone contemplating a DIY restoration project. It runs and drives well, allowing the buyer to devise a plan of attack and to assemble everything required to achieve a high-end result before delving into their tool cupboard. The seller’s price may seem slightly optimistic when taken at face value, but when you consider that the new owner won’t have to spend hours cutting and welding, it looks quite realistic. It has only been on the market for a few days, but are you tempted to give this Trans Am a new home?
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