Debuting in 1967 as a competitor to the Ford Mustang, the Pontiac Firebird hoped to capitalize on the booming muscle car market. However, the 1970 model year proved disastrous for the Firebird, with production significantly impacted by a General Motors strike. Despite hopes for a resurgence in 1971, sales figures remained disappointing.
Pontiac only managed to sell around 53,000 Firebirds, a modest increase from the previous year’s total. Within the 1971 lineup, the base V8 model emerged as the clear favorite, attracting over 20,000 buyers. The iconic Trans Am, still in its early stages of development, struggled to gain traction and saw limited production of just over 2,000 units.
Recognizing the continued appetite for performance, Pontiac made a strategic move. They introduced the mighty 455 V8 as the range-topping engine, boasting 255 horsepower in the standard configuration and an even more impressive 305 horsepower in high-output versions. This engine upgrade signaled Pontiac’s commitment to attracting performance-oriented buyers to the Firebird fold.
A true survivor, this 1972 Pontiac Firebird boasts a unique history. Originally a dealer demonstrator, it found a permanent home with its first owner after just 2,500 miles. Remarkably, the car remained in the same loving hands for the next 27 years before being offered for sale.
Despite the extended storage period, this low-mileage Firebird is in impressive condition. The Cameo White paint received a fresh coat to combat the effects of time, but the rust-free body remains solid. According to the seller, the interior is a time capsule, retaining its original steering wheel, unmolested dashboard, and even the factory AM/FM radio.
While the addition of a new exhaust nudges the car away from complete originality, the odometer reading of 77,000 miles confirms its authenticity. This Pontiac Firebird presents a compelling opportunity for collectors seeking a well-preserved classic with a fascinating story.
