1978 Pontiac Trans Am – A True American Muscle Icon
Few cars define late 1970s American muscle like the 1978 Pontiac Trans Am. With its aggressive styling, legendary performance, and starring role in pop culture, the Trans Am cemented itself as one of the most celebrated vehicles of its era. This particular Mayan Red example with a 400 V8 and Borg Warner T-10 4-speed manual transmission captures everything that made these second-generation Firebirds such a thrill to drive.
The Legend of the 1978 Trans Am
The 1978 model year marked one of the most significant in the second-generation Trans Am's history. Thanks in large part to the success of Smokey and the Bandit, sales skyrocketed, making it one of Pontiac’s best-selling performance cars. This year also saw key refinements, including a revised front grille, new interior appointments, and improved suspension. While emissions regulations had choked many muscle cars of the era, the Trans Am stood defiant, delivering real power and performance that enthusiasts still admire today.
A Well-Preserved Muscle Car with Classic Appeal
This 1978 Pontiac Trans Am is a head-turner in its original Code “75” Mayan Red paint, which has been refreshed to maintain its striking factory look. Complementing the bold red exterior are the legendary 15-inch Snowflake wheels, wrapped in 245/60 Cooper Cobra radial tires. This Trans Am still embodies the muscle car spirit with its full dual exhaust system with DynoMax mufflers and OE-style tips, ensuring it sounds as good as it looks.
Under the hood sits a great-running 400 cubic-inch V8, featuring a WC block. While not the original engine, this powerhouse is true to the Trans Am’s performance heritage. Paired with the Borg Warner T-10 4-speed manual transmission, it delivers an exhilarating, hands-on driving experience that enthusiasts crave. Power steering and power front disc brakes ensure a confident and controlled ride, making this Trans Am just as enjoyable on the highway as it is on winding backroads.
Loaded with Factory Features
The cabin retains its original Code “19” black cloth interior, offering a nostalgic, driver-focused experience. Classic bucket seats with a center console set the stage for spirited driving, while the factory 4-speed floor shifter keeps you engaged with every gear change. A tilt steering column, power windows, and a driver-side remote mirror add convenience, while the rear defroster enhances all-season drivability.
One of the standout features of this Trans Am is its factory air conditioning, which has been converted to R134A refrigerant and still blows cold—a rare and desirable trait in a classic muscle car. Other original features include the tachometer, dash clock (inoperable), and Pioneer stereo system, which provides a modern sound upgrade while maintaining a vintage aesthetic.
Built for Performance and Longevity
Beneath the striking exterior, this Trans Am remains structurally solid, with a well-maintained undercarriage that reflects its careful ownership. The frame, floor pans, and suspension components show only minor aging, and key mechanical upgrades, such as an aluminum radiator, ensure optimal cooling performance. The front and rear sway bars enhance handling, making this Trans Am a confident performer on the road.
A Timeless Piece of Pontiac History
With an odometer reading of 19,594 miles (though unverified), this Mayan Red 1978 Pontiac Trans Am is a striking blend of performance, comfort, and muscle car nostalgia. It embodies the era when Pontiac was at the peak of its performance game, offering both thrilling power and unmistakable style. Whether you remember these cars from their heyday or are discovering their charm for the first time, this Trans Am is a beautiful tribute to the golden age of American muscle.
About PC Classic Cars
At PC Classic Cars, we celebrate and preserve the legacy of classic American muscle. Our passion for vintage vehicles ensures that every classic we showcase is treated with the respect it deserves. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or an enthusiast looking for your dream ride, our collection is a tribute to the craftsmanship, history, and thrill of classic cars.