1978 Pontiac Firebird Solar Gold Trans Am Coupe

When it comes to “Bandit”-era Trans Ams, one of the first questions asked is about the powertrain. When it comes to this Solar Gold 1978 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, the answer is “yes”: It has the W72-code Pontiac 400 V8 engine and a four-speed manual transmission. The engine has a few internal upgrades but appears mostly stock on the outside. The car is also a longtime Southwest car, according to selling dealer West Coast Classics, that was sold originally in Arizona and migrated to California. “This Trans Am is ridiculously attractive and runs and drives as good as it looks,” says the seller. 

• Per the “Z” in the VIN, this Trans Am was built with the four-barrel, 400-cu.in. OHV V8.
• Beneath the shaker-style hood scoop, the engine was rated new at 220 horsepower.
• A previous owner upgraded the engine with the cylinder heads and intake manifold from a GTO.
• An Edelbrock four-barrel carburetor has replaced the original Quadrajet.
• The engine has also been fitted with a Ram Air III camshaft and an aftermarket dual exhausts.
• The exhaust components include turbo mufflers from Pypes.
• Backing the engine is the factory four-speed manual transmission.
• It reportedly shifts smoothly and the clutch and related components were previously replaced.
• The 50U-code Solar Gold paintwork appears to be a respray of the original color.
• Per the seller, the finish is in “very good condition,” with a few “minor imperfections.”
• The five-color “hood bird” graphic is correct for a 1978 Trans Am in Solar Gold.
• Inside, the car is equipped with the up-level trim, including “doeskin” Camel vinyl upholstery.
• The seat covers, carpet, door panels, dash pad, and center console show light apparent wear.
• The Fisher Body emblem on the passenger-side sill plate is missing.
• The car was also originally equipped with air conditioning, but it has been removed.
• Additional equipment includes an 8-track radio and additional acoustical insulation.
• There are no known modifications or upgrades to the chassis, suspension, or braking systems.
• The previous owner reportedly serviced the brakes with replacement calipers and wheel cylinders.
• The brake master cylinder was also replaced.
• BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires are mounted on the factory 15-inch “snowflake” wheels.

• Nothing additional is included.

• The air conditioning system has been removed.

• This second-generation Trans Am was originally sold in Arizona and also lived in California.
• It’s an original W72 400/four-speed car that’s said to run and drive very well.
• The engine has GTO-derived heads, a Ram Air III camshaft, and an Edelbrock carburetor.
• The original Solar Gold exterior color appears to have been resprayed and shows well.
• Inside, the Camel vinyl interior also appears in very good shape and features a factory 8-track player.

The selling dealer states that it will provide a clean and open California title for the proper transfer of ownership for this vehicle. A true 400/four-speed car with a few discreet engine upgrades, this 1978 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am is an F-body that’s said to run and drive very well. “It’s a very striking car that’s been well cared for,” notes the seller. 

Please note: If the winning bidder is a California resident, the selling dealer is required by California law to register the vehicle in the buyer’s name and collect the appropriate sales tax and registration fees. Out of state buyers will have the title assigned to them but will not be charged the California taxes and fees.