This 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am is a running and driving project that still needs some finishing work but has several key updates already completed. It’s powered by a 403 cubic inch V8 and comes with a clean title. The car is listed here on eBay and located with a dealer seller. Bidding is active, and the listing notes that it may sell locally before the auction ends.

From the photos, the Trans Am presents in its classic black-on-black color scheme, which always looks the part—especially with the aggressive styling of the late second-generation cars. This one isn’t fully buttoned up, but it does run and drive, which gives it a leg up over true basket cases. The seller has installed a new exhaust system and fuel pump, and the floor pans have already been replaced, two jobs that many would rather avoid tackling themselves.

The interior still needs some attention. The carpet is included with the sale but hasn’t been installed, and there’s no mention of the condition of the seats, dash, or door panels. While those parts are generally available on the aftermarket, restoring a Trans Am cabin can get pricey if you’re aiming for originality. Still, the bones appear solid enough to build on.

The 403 V8, mated to an automatic transmission, was one of the more common drivetrains found in the ’79 Trans Am, especially in cars built for California or high-altitude regions. While not the most powerful option offered, it still provides respectable performance and a great soundtrack when paired with a free-flowing exhaust.

1979 marked the final year for the second-gen Firebird’s popular front-end styling before the refresh in 1980. As such, these cars are becoming more sought-after, especially ones that haven’t been heavily modified. This example falls into a sweet spot for a budget-minded enthusiast who’s ready to take on a project that doesn’t require starting from scratch.

So, what do you think, is this the right balance of work and reward? Or would you hold out for something more turnkey?