The 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am remains one of the most recognizable symbols of American performance, marking the sunset of the traditional big-displacement V8 era. This particular example is a highly specified survivor that bridges the gap between a factory collector piece and a built street machine. Originally ordered with the top-tier WS6 Special Performance Package, the car has since been enhanced with a focus on mechanical engagement and breathability. It stands as a testament to the enduring “Screaming Chicken” legacy, offering a visceral driving experience that modern sports cars often lack.
Cameo White Styling and Side Pipe Aggression
The exterior visual character is defined by its factory Cameo White paintwork, accented by the unmistakable optional Firebird hood graphic. This silhouette is synonymous with late-seventies muscle, further enhanced here by period-correct rear window louvers that sharpen the fastback profile. A previous owner added a set of side-exit exhaust pipes, giving the car a wider, more grounded appearance while promising a raw acoustic signature. The 15×8-inch Snowflake alloy wheels, a signature of the WS6 package, maintain the car’s authentic heritage while filling the wheel arches with a classic performance stance.
Carmine Red Cabin with Driver Focused Upgrades
Inside the cockpit, the environment is finished in a striking Carmine red upholstery, part of the factory Custom Trim Group. The cabin retains its period-correct luxury features, including air conditioning, power windows, and a Delco radio equipped with an 8-track player for a true retro atmosphere. Modern shifts are managed by a Hurst shifter, which serves as the interface for the upgraded five-speed transmission. A fresh headliner was installed in 2020, ensuring the interior remains a clean and comfortable sanctuary for high-speed grand touring.
Built 400 V8 and Five Speed Richmond Swap
Under the hood lies the heart of the machine: an L78 400ci V8 that was rebuilt in the 1980s with a focus on high-performance flow. The engine features ported heads, a Crane camshaft, and BlackJack headers, allowing it to breathe more freely than the factory-choked versions of the era. Power delivery is now managed by a retrofitted Richmond five-speed manual transmission, offering a significant upgrade over the original four-speed for better highway cruising and acceleration. The chassis is equally refined, featuring Koni shocks and an aftermarket rear sway bar to complement the factory WS6 Special Handling Package.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | L78 400ci V-8 |
| Transmission | Richmond 5-Speed Manual (Retrofit) |
| Induction | 4-Barrel Carburetor |
| Drivetrain | Safe-T-Track Limited-Slip Differential |
| Suspension | Koni Shocks and WS6 Handling Package |
| Brakes | Power-Assisted 4-Wheel Disc |
| Wheels | 15×8-inch Snowflake Alloy |
| Odometer | 30,000 Miles (Shown) |
WS6 Rarity and Ownership Heritage
In the current market for second-generation F-bodies, the 1979 model year is highly sought after as the final year of the 400ci engine availability. This Trans Am’s unique selling point is its factory WS6 package, which added four-wheel disc brakes and improved steering geometry, making it a direct competitor to the Chevrolet Corvette of the same year. While many have been neglected, the extensive documentation and service records accompanying this lot, including the original window sticker, place it in a higher tier for collectors who value provenance alongside mechanical upgrades.
A Documented Trans Am Ready for the Open Road
Offered at no reserve in Mississippi, this 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am is a turnkey icon that has been thoughtfully maintained and improved over its 47-year history. With its combination of a five-speed manual, a rebuilt high-performance V8, and the superior handling of the WS6 package, it is a rare find that is ready for the next enthusiast. It offers the perfect opportunity to own a piece of automotive history that is as exciting to drive as it is to look at, capturing the very essence of the Trans Am spirit.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
