180 bhp, 400.0 cu. in. OHV V-8 engine, four-speed manual transmission, coil spring independent front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel power hydraulic disc brakes. Wheelbase: 108.0 in.

When Ford realized incredible success with their Mustang in 1964, the Pony-car market was born and every manufacturer scrambled to produce their own offering. Pontiac hoped to produce a two-seater based on their Banshee concept car, but GM feared that it would compete with the Corvette. It was decided that Pontiac could restyle the Camaro that was based on GM’s F-body platform. The designers at Pontiac went about re-making the F-body in their own image, with both styling and engineering changes. The bumpers were integrated into the design of the front end and its rear “slit” taillights were inspired by Pontiac’s GTO. The treatment was a huge success and Pontiac had a share of the Pony-car market.

While not one of the special 10th Anniversary Trans Am models, this 1979 example is equally loaded with options and is a remarkable survivor condition car that shows approximately 46,000 miles on the odometer, which is believed to be from new. Records indicate that it was originally delivered to Sharon Hamilton, of Kansas, who retained the car for most of its life until it found its way to Florida, where it eventually joined the Cars of Dreams Museum.

It is one of the rare and desirable four-speed manual transmission equipped examples, which is mated to the 400-cubic inch W72 engine and is finished in Harvest Gold with a tan interior. Both the paintwork and interior are in outstanding overall condition and are commensurate with the car’s low mileage, as is the engine, bay, and underbody. Accompanied with a highly informative dossier of documentation, this excellent, well cared for Trans Am is a highly worthwhile alternative for the enthusiast who prefers the luster and allure of gold rather than “anniversary silver.”