1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am Ram Air III Four-Speed
Description
General Motors’ first-generation F-body cars were rapidly developed in response to the Ford Mustang, and plans for a second generation were green-lit almost as soon as the first Chevrolet Camaros and Pontiac Firebirds went on sale in 1967. Designed by legendary GM design chief Bill Mitchell, the second-generation F-cars were introduced mid-way through the 1970 model year wearing dramatic, European-influenced bodywork with long hoods and truncated fastback rear ends. The top-level Firebird Trans Am model remained available and was joined by new Firebird Esprit and Firebird Formula packages. Engine options for the Trans Am were carried over from 1969, which included two variants of the 400 cu-in Ram Air V8 – a standard 345 horsepower L74 Ram Air III, and an optional 370 horsepower L67 Ram Air IV. While the Firebird Formula could be had with the Ram Air III engine, the fender flares, “shaker” hood scoop, and spats ahead of the front and rear wheel openings were unique to the Trans Am. Hailing from the heyday of American muscle, early second-generation Trans Ams are collectible for their artful styling, exciting color schemes, and impressive performance figures.
Highlights
Powered by a 400 cu-in, overhead-valve, four-barrel-carburetted L74 Ram Air III V8 rated at 345 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque
Shifted via a Muncie M20 four-speed manual transmission
12-bolt rear axle with 3.73:1 gear ratio
Subject of a restoration reportedly completed in 2015
Refinished in its original factory shade of Polar White (10) with a blue stripe
Black (218) vinyl interior
Rides on 15-inch Rally II wheels mounted with raised white-letter BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires
This Firebird Trans Am Ram Air III is offered with the five-digit odometer currently showing just over 15,500 miles at the time of listing; however, the true mileage is unknown
Features
Front air dam
Chrome rear bumper
Color-keyed dual exterior racing mirrors
Engine-turned aluminum dash panel
“Shaker” hood scoop
Rear ducktail spoiler
Thick stabilizer bars, front and rear
Heavy-duty springs and shocks
Padded three-spoke steering wheel
Voltmeter, water temperature, and oil pressure gauges
Delco push-button AM/FM radio
Hurst shifter
Heater
Bucket seats
Center console
Lap seatbelts
Manually operated windows
Dual-speed windshield wipers
Dual padded sun visors
Locking glove compartment
Lined trunk compartment
Back-up lights
Dual exhaust outlets
Known Imperfections
Cracking in front grille surround
Discoloration of clear coat in some areas, as pictured
Included
PHS Automotive Services, Inc. information packet
Digital copy of original build sheet
Jack
Spare wheel and tire
Ownership History
The accompanying digital build sheet shows that this Firebird Trans Am was originally delivered to All American Pontiac Inc. in San Jose, California. The consignor acquired the car approximately two and a half years ago.
Optional vehicle service contract available for $1,450. Learn more about the program here. *Sales tax may be applicable.
