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1969–1981 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am

The screaming chicken on the hood became a pop culture icon, especially after 'Smokey and the Bandit.' The Super Duty 455 of 1973-74 was the last true factory muscle car of the emissions era.

1969–1981 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am — Full Specifications

  • Engine: 400ci / 455ci / 403ci V8
  • Power: 250–345 bhp
  • Torque: 325–500 lb-ft
  • Transmission: Muncie/Borg-Warner 4-speed manual or Turbo Hydra-Matic 350/400 automatic
  • Drivetrain: Front engine, rear-wheel drive
  • Body style: 2-door coupe
  • Wheelbase: 108 inches
  • Curb weight: 3,400–3,700 lbs
  • 0–60 mph: 5.4–8.0 sec
  • Quarter mile: 13.8–15.5 sec
  • Original MSRP: $3,556 (1969); $4,798 (1973 SD-455); $6,611 (1977)
  • Current value: $30,000–$55,000 (standard 400); $60,000–$120,000+ (Super Duty 455); $150,000+ (1969)

Production Notes

The 1969 Trans Am is the rarest with only 689 hardtops and 8 convertibles built. The '73 Super Duty 455 produced 310 net hp during the horsepower drought. 'Smokey and the Bandit' (1977) made the black-and-gold Trans Am the most recognized car in America.

Notable Factory Options

  • Super Duty 455
  • W72 performance package
  • WS6 handling package
  • Shaker hood scoop
  • 8-track stereo
  • Formula steering wheel

Buying Guide

The Trans Am offers a wide range of entry points. 1970½–73 models are the most collectible, with the Super Duty 455 being the ultimate prize. 1974–76 cars are the most affordable and undervalued—they look great and the 455 still makes good power. 1977–78 'Smokey and the Bandit' era cars have a strong following and have appreciated nicely. 1979–81 models with the turbocharged 301 or the detuned 403 Olds engine are less desirable. For value buyers, the Formula Firebird offered most of the Trans Am's mechanicals without the premium price—and they're still undervalued today. The 1969 Trans Am is a top-tier collector car. PHS documentation is essential for pre-1982 cars.

Pros

  • Iconic pop culture status—instantly recognizable
  • Wide range of price points from affordable to investment-grade
  • Super Duty 455 is a genuine high-performance factory engine
  • Strong Pontiac community and club support
  • Second-gen styling ages beautifully

Cons

  • Severe rust issues in floors, trunk, and rear window area
  • 1977–81 models suffered significant power reductions
  • 403 Olds engine (1977–79) is less desirable than Pontiac V8s
  • Super Duty parts are scarce and expensive
  • Popularity means prices have risen significantly

Restoration Tips

Second-gen Firebirds rust in floor pans, trunk, and especially around rear window. Super Duty parts are rare. Original shaker scoops command high prices. PHS documentation covers Trans Am production.