Vehicle Description
We love prototype; we love survivor cars; we love classics with
stories - and this one has the potential for all of that and more!
This 1980 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am Pontiac Development car is a
believed one of one that has documentation on GM's development
program for the famous Indy 500 turbo pace cars. And it even has
the kind of dry desert preservation added to the story to create a
singularly unique classic we've all been searching for.
Take some time to look over all the exterior pictures. It tells the
tale of a car that has been under the dry Arizona sun, and the
ultra-low mileage tells you it has been parked most of this time.
But the lacquer paint still knows how to give off a nice shine, so
you know this special car has been treated with respect. It remains
correct from the special wheels, to the intricate decal package.
And while a surviving Pace Car is already a seriously desirable
T/A, this one takes it to a whole new level. The consignor states
this is a pre-production pace car that was sent to GM's proving
grounds as a development mule. Remember, pace cars are sustained
high speed machines. This is the car that John Callies (GM's
motorsports engineer) used to dial in the suspension and extra wide
track tires so that the short run of special T/As could lead
purebred racecars with ease. So not only is it a real-deal pace
car, but also the one who got to lead the way for the rest of the
legendary handful that were created. We do not have the original
docs or direct proof on hand for the consignor's full claim.
However, the sale does come with emails from Callies, copies of
Pontiac's experimental work orders, PHS (Pontiac Historic Services)
documentation, and title documentation on this car. All of this
does provide corroborating information.
Inside is a well-preserved and loaded interior. The Hobnail cloth
pattern on the seats is practically a legend at Pontiac. So it's
nice to have them looking so clean and complete, right down to the
logo in-between the rear seats. And not only are the T-tops another
iconic touch, but it's also great to take them out so people get a
full look as you tell this unique survivor's tale. This one come
loaded with more great features, like power windows, power locks,
power front seats, power steering, a three-speed automatic
transmission, the factory AM/FM radio, and provisions for air
conditioning. The tilt steering wheel means you get a great view of
the full gauge package in Pontiac's iconic machine-turned metal
panel.
Lift the hood for a very unique presentation. The 4.9-liter
turbocharged V8 motor was only offered for two years, and fans
instantly identify this setup with the offset air topper that makes
room for the turbocharger. Everything looks quite correct in the
engine bay, and we believe this to be the original block. These
unique T/As were a cool addition to the lineup when the big torque
of the V8 would get you off the line and the turbo offered an extra
hit of power in the mid-range. The suspension was specifically
dialed-in for high-speed pace car duties. Plus, you have thick sway
bars front & rear, wide Goodyear Eagle GT tires, and four-wheel
power disc brakes.
This is an amazing piece of history, and it comes with a large
document file. So if you're someone who appreciates a rare car with
a singular history, we know this already has you intrigued. Plus,
we can just imagine taking out the T-tops, putting on a light bar,
and leading every local parade. Call today!!!