1979 Pontiac Trans Am – A Muscle Car Icon with Classic Styling
The 1979 Pontiac Trans Am stands as one of the most recognizable and celebrated muscle cars of its era. With its aggressive styling, potent V8 engine options, and a legacy cemented by pop culture—most notably in Smokey and the Bandit II—this Trans Am embodies the spirit of late-'70s American performance. That year marked a peak in Trans Am popularity, with Pontiac selling over 116,000 units, making it one of the best-selling performance cars of its time.
For 1979, Pontiac gave the Trans Am a fresh front-end design, featuring bold quad rectangular headlamps and a new grille layout. Under the hood, buyers had multiple engine options, including the Oldsmobile-built 403 V8, which was the powerplant of choice for automatic transmission models. While the muscle car era was transitioning into a more restrained time due to emissions regulations, the Trans Am remained one of the last true performers of its generation, boasting a blend of aggressive styling and reliable power.
A Stunning Example of Late-'70s American Muscle
This particular 1979 Pontiac Trans Am, finished in its factory-correct Cameo White (Code 11) paint, presents an outstanding blend of originality and tasteful upgrades. Its numbers-matching 403 cubic-inch V8 runs strong, paired with the TH350 automatic transmission for smooth shifting and classic Pontiac performance.
Adding to its appeal, the car retains its factory bucket seats and center console, surrounded by the original Carmine Red interior (Code 74R)—a striking contrast to the white exterior. While the car has undergone a repaint in its original color, it maintains its factory charm, including the iconic hood bird decal, which remains a signature feature of the Trans Am lineup.
Despite the lack of factory air conditioning, this Trans Am comes with a well-preserved interior, including an AC Delco AM/FM radio, a factory tachometer, and rear defrost, offering a period-correct driving experience.
Performance Upgrades & Mechanical Highlights
This Trans Am isn't just about looks—it offers enhanced braking and handling, thanks to modern upgrades that improve its drivability:
Wilwood front disc brakes with drilled and slotted rotors for superior stopping power
18” US Mag Rambler wheels wrapped in 245/45 (front) and 275/40 (rear) tires, giving it an aggressive stance
Dual exhaust with Magnaflow mufflers and full tailpipes, ensuring the V8 has a deep, authoritative rumble
Power steering for smooth handling
Factory front and rear sway bars, reinforcing its muscle car heritage
Underneath, this Trans Am remains very solid, with original floor pans and undercoating intact. The 10-bolt rear endfurther solidifies its durability and performance.
A Classic That Drives as Good as It Looks
With an odometer reading 89,604 miles (believed to be actual), this Trans Am remains a well-preserved example of Pontiac’s performance legacy. The numbers-matching 403 V8 and smooth TH350 automatic transmission ensure a strong driving experience, while the iconic styling and subtle performance enhancements make it a standout example of late-'70s muscle.
This 1979 Trans Am is a timeless classic that continues to turn heads, whether parked at a car show or cruising down the highway.
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At PC Classic Cars, we are passionate about preserving and showcasing the best in classic American muscle. With a reputation for carefully selected and well-documented vehicles, we strive to bring enthusiasts the finest examples of automotive history. Whether you're searching for your next dream car or just admiring these legends, our dedication to classic cars remains unmatched.