In this week’s feature, we delve into the allure of a truly remarkable classic car, the 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am 10th Anniversary Edition. With just over a hundred miles on the odometer, this pristine muscle car holds a place in history for two distinct reasons. First, it gained fame by appearing in the movie “Joe Dirt,” driven by the renowned rock star, Kid Rock. Second, it stands as a testament to the evolution of Pontiac’s iconic second-generation Firebird body style.
The Evolution of Style
By 1979, Pontiac’s second-generation Firebird body style was approaching its final years, with the design set to change once again in 1982. A noteworthy observation is how the car’s appearance evolved from the early ’70s to the late ’70s. The earlier models exuded a tight and aggressive demeanor, while the late ’70s versions took on a flashy and extravagant look, earning the moniker “disco cars” due to their popularity during the height of the disco era.;
The 1979 10th Anniversary Edition was a sight to behold, instantly distinguishable from its standard counterparts. Its silver and gray two-tone paint job was adorned with a special 5-color hood bird, black and red stripes that adorned the entire body, and captivating turbo-style wheels. The interior was just as lavish, featuring silver leather seats, power windows, power steering, power brakes, power door locks, and an advanced digital stereo 8-track unit with a functioning digital display—a rare find in modern times.
Attention to Detail
The 10th Anniversary Edition of the Pontiac Trans Am is a true testament to exclusivity and attention to detail. Every inch of the car showcases its special status with prominent 10th-anniversary badges and Firebird emblems carefully placed throughout. The distinctive little bird design on the gauge cluster sets it apart from other models, adding a touch of uniqueness to the interior.
Inside the 10th Anniversary Edition, luxury meets nostalgia with thick silver shag carpeting, creating an ambiance of sophistication and style. Even the T-tops receive a special treatment, replacing the traditional smoked grey with mirrored panels, making them stand out as an exclusive feature of this commemorative edition.
The 10th Anniversary Edition of the Pontiac Trans Am is a collector’s dream, with its impeccable design and rare features celebrating a decade of muscle car excellence. It’s a true showcase of craftsmanship and heritage, leaving no surface untouched to highlight its special place in muscle car history.
Performance and Power
The 1979 Pontiac Trans Am may not have been the fastest muscle car of its time, but it still delivered respectable performance. Powering the car was a Pontiac 400 V8 engine, boasting 220 horsepower and 320 foot-pounds of torque. The engine’s design featured a relatively modest 8.1:1 compression ratio and Pontiac 6x cylinder heads, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride. For enthusiasts seeking different driving experiences, they could choose between an Oldsmobile 403 V8 paired with an automatic transmission or the Pontiac 400 V8 with a four-speed manual transmission.
Despite not being an all-out performance machine, the 1979 Pontiac Trans Am offered a satisfying blend of power and comfort, appealing to a wide range of muscle car aficionados. The car’s engine options allowed drivers to select the one that best suited their preferences, whether it be a more relaxed and effortless driving experience with the automatic transmission or the engaging and hands-on feel of the manual gearbox.
Overall, the 1979 Pontiac Trans Am’s performance figures may not have been the most impressive, but its flexibility in engine choices and focus on providing a comfortable and enjoyable ride made it an attractive option for muscle car enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded driving experience.
A Rarity Among Classics
Pontiac manufactured over 116,000 units of the 1979 Trans Am, but the 10th Anniversary Edition stood out as a rare gem, with only 7,500 of these exclusive cars ever produced. Out of that limited number, a mere 1,817 units were fitted with the desirable Pontiac 400 V8 engine coupled to the four-speed manual transmission.
This remarkable 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am 10th Anniversary Edition now resides in the renowned Brothers Collection. Its pristine condition and astonishingly low mileage make it a true time capsule of the second-generation F body. The car’s fascinating history includes ownership by famous car enthusiasts such as Bob Larrivee of the Detroit Autorama and Jim Wangers, known as the Godfather of the GTO, who played a significant role in promoting the Pontiac GTO.
Interior
The interior of the 1979 Pontiac Trans Am offers a perfect blend of sportiness and comfort, reflecting the car’s muscle car heritage. The bucket seats, upholstered in a combination of vinyl and cloth, provide excellent support during spirited driving while ensuring a comfortable ride for long journeys. The attention to detail is evident in the classic Pontiac Firebird emblem embossed on the headrests, adding a touch of nostalgia to the overall interior design.
The dashboard of the Trans Am features a driver-focused layout, with essential controls and gauges easily accessible. The iconic four-spoke steering wheel with the Trans Am logo complements the interior’s sporty vibe, further emphasizing the car’s performance-oriented character. The instrument cluster is clean and straightforward, providing all the necessary information at a glance.
Inside the cabin, thoughtful touches abound, enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality. The center console features an integrated radio and ventilation controls, making it easy for the driver to operate without distractions. Premium options like power windows and air conditioning add to the car’s comfort and convenience, ensuring an enjoyable driving experience.
Furthermore, the interior of the 1979 Trans Am is not just about function but also style. The available deluxe interior package provides upgrades such as soft leather-wrapped steering wheel, door panels with woodgrain accents, and luxurious carpeting, creating an elevated ambiance. Whether cruising down the open road or idling in city traffic, the interior of the 1979 Pontiac Trans Am offers a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and style that leaves a lasting impression on all passengers.
Conclusion
As we explore the captivating story behind the 1979 Pontiac Trans Am 10th Anniversary Edition, we marvel at its allure as a cultural icon from a bygone era. This rare find serves as a testament to Pontiac’s legacy and its lasting impact on the automotive world. Its remarkable history and unmatched condition will undoubtedly captivate collectors and enthusiasts for generations to come.
