Description
It’s an evocative name, Firebird. The mythical bird that rises from the ashes, a symbol of immortality. Whilst Pontiac’s firebird isn’t immortal, it does exist in a mythical way in the hearts and minds of us car enthusiasts.
The Firebird has always coexisted with the Camaro, sharing the same platform and some components. No doubt thanks to GM’s unique array of brands, they needed a way to supply a car for everyone, for every brand. For those loyal to the likes of the GTO, the Firebird answered that call.
The second generation of Firebird was launched in 1970, designed by Bill Porter the lines were more aggressive. Second gen Firebird popularity was staunchly boosted by the use of a Firebird Trans-Am by Burt Reynolds in Smokey and The Bandit and no-doubt that product placement would help convince GM bosses to keep producing them right up until 2002, always remaining a close relative of the Chevrolet Camaro.
This Firebird, in a way, is just as mythical as the bird it’s named after. It was ordered new in 1979 to be delivered in Hong Kong. Already not a common car in Hong Kong, it did receive some GM approved updates that make it even more unique, namely a right-hand-drive conversion.
Built in 1979 at the Norwood, Ohio plant this Trans Am is externally finished in an interesting shade of Gold. The paintwork is in OK condition, whilst the body is free from rust thanks to the majority of its life being spent on the unsalted roads of Hong Kong, it has been repainted and thus there are some areas of bubbling and poor finish.
Overall though, it doesn’t detract from what is a spectacular looking car. At the front the slanted aerodynamic nose cone and chin spoiler are playing second fiddle to the “Screaming Chicken” that adorns the bonnet. Just above the Firebird decal’s head is the shaker style intake. The wheels are original “Snowflake” items, colour coded to match the bodywork. They’re wrapped in a matching set of Bridgestone tyres.
The rear panel is complete with a Nascar style ducktail rear wing and a full-width slatted set of tail lights. The rear end is aggressive, and unlike any modern car features no indication of the manufacturer. Instead just a bold “Trans Am” logo is posted to the rear.
Step inside, and you’re greeted by an equally Golden interior, with that all important right-hand drive conversion. The conversion, which was approved by General Motors, was completed by the dealer that originally imported the car to Hong Kong. It’s a serious piece of work too, with the steering box relocated to the right hand side, and a crossover bar used to transfer your input to the opposite side for the brake system.
Unfortunately, due to the steering column now being where the heater would be, that functionality is not available. Though modern developments in compact under-dash heaters mean that it is certainly possible to retrofit. Likewise, due to a failed air-conditioning compressor, the air con doesn’t work.
It’s no matter though, because thanks to the Trans Am’s removable glass T-top panels, there is plenty of airflow into the cabin, and plenty of light. The interior is in excellent shape, now doubt thanks to the fact that his car had just 4 owners, and just one in the UK, all of whom have used it sparingly.
Under the bonnet, you’ll find a 6. 6-litre or 403 ci V8, mated to a 3-speed automatic. Due to the complex nature of the late 1970s fuel crisis, US V8s didn’t make a huge amount of power. But, they still have an amazing soundtrack and thanks to the amazing nature of aftermarket support, you could quite easily have this engine tuned up to create the power it may have originally deserved.
Overall then, this car represents an opportunity that will likely never re-appear. Right-hand-drive muscle cars are not a common sight and especially not ones that have lived such interesting lives, retaining so many original features and being maintained regularly. Featured in a number of Hong Kong magazines and loved and maintained by its previous owners, this Firebird gives you an opportunity to live out your Smokey and The Bandit Dreams.
T-tops off, ‘tache on, your Sunday drive through the countryside is about to become a wild ride.
As with all our vehicles, a full digital folder is available on request containing more images, walk-around videos, and scans of the service history. The car can also be viewed by appointment at our West London showroom.
