1971 Pontiac Firebird Formula 350

Description

Another amazing find for fans of original cars, this 1971 Pontiac Firebird Formula 350 isn't just rare, it's also incredibly well-preserved. Aside from one early repaint and routine maintenance items, it is completely as the factory built it more than 40 years ago. If authenticity matters to you, this car delivers in every possible way.

Hailing from a collection of similar unusual, low-mile cars, this awesome Pontiac perfectly encapsulates the early 1970s. Aggressive F-body lines, that radical hood with twin snorkels, and a padded roof combine to make for an interesting combination of options, and it's authentic and documented. With just 54,078 original miles showing on the odometer, you know it hasn't been worn out, beaten up, or hastily restored, but rather lovingly maintained by guys who seemed to know that keeping it in good order was of primary importance. The code 67B Castilian Brown repaint has a bit of patina, just enough so that it looks right and could almost pass for original paint, and the tape stripes look quite authentic. Everything else is 1971 GM, including the bumpers, glass, stainless trim, and even that padded top which is not only rare, but in excellent condition. For fans of the unusual, this car is a total slam-dunk.

The interior is more 1970s awesome, with high-back buckets in code 214 Sandalwood, which actually looks rich and inviting after all these years. There's some evidence of use, but it's entirely in line with the car's age and mileage and the gentle creases in the driver's seat only seem to enhance its look. A center console with power window switches, the shifter for the TH350 3-speed automatic transmission, and an ultra-rare 8-track player adds to the Pontiac's sporty look and there's a full complement of instruments in a woodgrained dash panel. Of all the interior components, the steering wheel seems to have had the hardest time with the passing years, but as an original car, it just isn't right to replace it and the only reason it stands out is because everything else is so nice. This loaded-up Firebird also includes factory A/C (converted to R134a), power locks, and a tilt column, all part of the Formula's sport/luxury image. Carpets, door panels, and even the trunk mat are completely original and shockingly nice.

The original, numbers-matching 350 cubic inch V8 remains under the hood and has never been opened. It's been maintained, with a lot of recent parts like belts, hoses, and a tune-up, so it's ready to run, but all the hardware is vintage 1971. Clearly someone made an effort to keep things clean, and the show-level detailing under the hood makes this car a sure bet in preservation classes. The transmission was recently removed and re-sealed, but needed nothing else so it went back in, and the factory 10-bolt rear end with 3.08s inside still hangs out back. The Flowmaster dual exhaust system is obviously new, but aside from some chrome tips, it doesn't really call attention to itself until you're underneath. Factory Rally II wheels are virtually unmarked and carry right-sized 215/70/14 Dunlop radials.

This is a show-quality survivor that can hold its head high among trailer queens at any level, yet costs under $25,000. Even better, take it to a show and watch where the crowd forms, because it won't be around the high-dollar restorations. Call today!