autoevolution
 

1972 Pontiac Firebird Flaunts Original V8 Power, Needs Little TLC

Leaving aside the “fake” power drop, which resulted from the U.S. government’s new net ratings system required for the automotive industry, the 1972 Pontiac Firebird was pretty similar to its predecessor, coming with very little changes outside, inside, and under the hood.
1972 Pontiac Firebird 19 photos
Photo: eBay seller moparhunter71
1972 Pontiac Firebird1972 Pontiac Firebird1972 Pontiac Firebird1972 Pontiac Firebird1972 Pontiac Firebird1972 Pontiac Firebird1972 Pontiac Firebird1972 Pontiac Firebird1972 Pontiac Firebird1972 Pontiac Firebird1972 Pontiac Firebird1972 Pontiac Firebird1972 Pontiac Firebird1972 Pontiac Firebird1972 Pontiac Firebird1972 Pontiac Firebird1972 Pontiac Firebird1972 Pontiac Firebird
Like before, the Firebird was offered in four different versions, namely Coupe, Esprit, Formula and Trans Am, with the 250ci (4.1-liter) six-cylinder still coming as the standard unit on the base models. This engine was rated at 110 horsepower, but again, that was the output according to the new ratings system.

Pontiac also offered four more powerful V8 engines in the lineup. First, it was the L30 350ci (5.7-liter) with a net power of 160 horsepower and fitted on the Esprit.

Then, the 400ci (6.6-liter) came in two different versions—L65 (two-barrel) and L78 (four-barrel), with 175 and 250 horsepower, respectively—while the top-of-the-line was the LS5 455ci (7.5-liter) with 300 horsepower, installed on the Trans Am.

The Firebird that we have here is 99 percent original, and best of all, it retains the factory 350 V8 under the hood. Few specifics have been shared on the engine, other than it’s the original unit. Still, we’re told the car “is a joy to drive,” so we’re guessing it has never been rebuilt and is still working properly.

The odometer also seems to suggest the engine hasn’t received any major fixes, as the car comes with a little over 51,000 miles (82,000 km) on the clock.

The only thing that’s not original is the paint, but overall, this Firebird looks to be a pretty solid example of the 1972 lineup, despite the rust in the rear quarters. The ProtectO plate, the owner’s manual, and even the original warranty policy still go with the car.

Without a doubt, it’s a rare Firebird, and what’s even more surprising is that eBay seller moparhunter71 has listed the car online as part of a no-reserve auction. In other words, whoever pays the most can take the car home, and at the time of writing, the top offer is $12,000 out of close to 30 bids.
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
About the author: Bogdan Popa
Bogdan Popa profile photo

Bogdan keeps an eye on how technology is taking over the car world. His long-term goals are buying an 18-wheeler because he needs more space for his kid’s toys, and convincing Google and Apple that Android Auto and CarPlay deserve at least as much attention as their phones.
Full profile

 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories