Vehicle Description
This was one of three Firebird Formulas provided by Pontiac Motor
Division to the TV show "The Rockford Files," and was used from
1978 until the series ended in 1980. With a special Sierra Gold
exterior and tan interior, the factory Formula 400 model was
modified to look like an Esprit for the show. This car was the
sound car, used for close-ups while driving, and still has the
original mic box, holes drilled to run recording wiring, and a skid
plate to protect the engine and transmission from damage during
stunts. It's powered by a 6.6-liter V8 engine mated to an automatic
transmission, and features air conditioning and Rally gauges, as
well as power windows, steering and brakes. This car, which was
purchased by actor James Garner at the conclusion of the series and
driven by him until May 1981, was the only one used in the show
that had power windows and an AM/FM radio. It was recently frame-on
restored by noted Pontiac restorer Mike Flaherty and presents just
as it would be to start a season of filming "The Rockford Files."
Included is a copy of the dealer invoice showing the car was
delivered to Pontiac Motor Division in Sherman Oaks, CA (the
location Vista Group/Product Placement used to get their vehicles
from GM), as well as a letter from James Garner's production
company identifying the car as an actual screen-used Firebird
Formula 400, and that he drove this car during the filming of "The
Rockford Files."
