Classic Classified: 1969 Pontiac Trans Am
From: Hemmings Motor News
Date: December 1983
Price then: $6,500 ($15,500 adjusted for inflation – about the cost of a new 2015 Hyundai Accent today)
Price now: $54,500-$127,000
Approximate dollar difference: $65,000 (assuming No. 3 condition)
Approximate annual rate of return: 5.2%
Trans Am: 1969 Ram Air III, 4-speed, 75% restored, $6,500
1969 was the first year for Pontiac’s iconic model named for the racing series it was designed to compete in. Back in 1969 the Trans Am was more of a hardcore version of the Firebird with upgraded styling and improved handling. This car is a rare find considering that it is one of 697 built for that first year. They are highly sought after among Pontiac enthusiasts and even considering that this car is not 100% restored, the buyer may have unknowingly picked up a goldmine.