The 1973 Pontiac Trans AM Super Duty stands as the final, defiant scream of the original muscle car era. While other manufacturers were detuning engines to meet emissions standards, Pontiac unleashed the SD 455, a race-prepared powerplant for the street. This particular example carries an extraordinary story, having remained with its original owner from 1973 until very recently. Originally ordered through VanderZee Buick-Pontiac, the first owner famously chose this car over a used Shelby Cobra because the Cobra’s $9,000 price tag seemed too high. Today, with just 56,160 actual miles, this documented two-owner gem represents a nearly irreplaceable piece of automotive history. It is one of only 180 Super Duty models equipped with the Hydramatic transmission, making it a true collector’s unicorn.
Buccaneer Red Sheet Metal and Restored Honeycomb Alloys
Dressed in striking Buccaneer Red, the body of this Trans Am underwent a high-quality, bare-metal restoration approximately ten years ago. The refinish achieved show-quality results, complemented by fresh decals and the iconic Ram Air hood. Despite the restoration, the structural integrity remains visible as the original floors still retain their factory red oxide primer. This coupe features the optional Lamp Group, tinted glass, and roof moldings to round out its aggressive 1970s silhouette. It sits correctly on restored factory Honeycomb wheels fitted with period-correct GR70-15 tires. Every inch of the exterior, from the polished trim to the iconic hood bird, reflects the care of a lifelong enthusiast.
Black Vinyl Heritage with 8-Track Nostalgia
The interior remains a focused cockpit finished in Black vinyl with a classic center console and bucket seats. While the seat covers and carpeting were refreshed during the restoration, the majority of the cabin components remain original and well-preserved. A factory AM radio with a functional 8-track stereo provides the perfect period-correct soundtrack for highway cruising. Power windows and an electronic rear defroster add a layer of luxury rarely found in such a performance-oriented machine. All gauges remain clear and fully functional, including the tachometer that monitors the massive V-8 under the hood. It is a space that feels remarkably tight and rattle-free, consistent with its low-mileage history.
Numbers Matching SD 455 and Hydramatic Fluidity
The heart of this legend is the numbers-matching SD 455 V-8, an engine Pontiac installed in only 252 total vehicles. This high-performance powerplant produces 290 hp / 294 PS and 395 lb-ft / 536 Nm. Expert authentication has confirmed that the engine, transmission, and differential are all original to this specific chassis. To verify its identity, a borescope was used to inspect hidden VIN stampings, ensuring absolute certainty for the next owner. The original XD-code engine was rebuilt to factory specifications in 2000 and continues to deliver tremendous, smooth power. Shifting is handled by the original PQ-code Hydramatic transmission, which provides the effortless delivery expected of a premier grand tourer.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | SD 455 V-8 (Numbers Matching) |
| Transmission | 3-Speed Hydramatic Automatic |
| Exterior Color | Buccaneer Red |
| Interior Color | Black |
| Mileage | 56,160 Actual Miles |
| Wheels | 15-inch Honeycomb |
| Documentation | PHS, Bill of Sale, Service Bulletin |
Extensive Provenance and Original Documentation
Documentation for this 1973 Pontiac Trans AM Super Duty is exhaustive, covering nearly every day of its existence since March 1973. Included in the sale are the original handwritten bill of sale, the 1977 title, and the original owner’s manual. It even retains the original Super Duty 455 dealer service bulletin and the PHS window sticker. Priced at $174,900, this car represents an investment-grade opportunity to own a verified survivor of the muscle car wars. Its combination of rarity, low mileage, and two-owner history makes it a cornerstone piece for any serious Pontiac collection. Rare is an understatement for a car with this level of mechanical and historical integrity.
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Source: motorcarclassics.com
