The ClassicCars.com Journal recently featured a Pick of the Day that focused on a particular Super Duty Trans Am that aroused the consternation of several enthusiasts who balked at the price. I won’t go on record stating that it was priced reasonably, but Super Dutys have been six-figure cars for quite a long time. However, I have found a Plan B for you: this 455-powered 1973 Pontiac Formula Firebird. It is listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a dealership in Concord, California.
Though the 1973 Pontiac Firebird looks like the 1970-72 iterations, there were several identifiable differences. Easily spotted is the coarse eggcrate grille, which stands out compared to the previous versions; it also was mounted forward more in the nostrils compared to previous years because the Firebird conformed to new federal bumper regulations. Inside, a new high-back seat design was introduced, with the Custom Trim Group being an upgrade featuring perforated Madrid Morrokide or Beige Prado cloth. New carpet choices of Red, Orange, or Blue (in place of black) were an interesting option.
The Formula Firebird continued to play the sporty and/or performance role ever since it replaced the Firebird 400 in 1970. That year, it was only available as a 400, but starting in 1971, an L30 350 two-barrel, L78 400 four-barrel, L75 455 four-barrel (only with an automatic), and LS5 455 HO were available, with the latter having the option of ram air. The L75 disappeared for 1972, only to reappear for 1973. The LS5 evolved into the LS2 455 Super Duty.
Even the Trans Am went through a few changes. Not only was the color palette expanded (three colors in total) with new stripes and markings to make it fresh, but the standard engine was downgraded to the L75, though now it was available with a four-speed manual.
While the 1973 Trans Am garners the spotlight — especially with the 455 Super Duty engine — the Formula has its fans, and it’s often much rarer when equipped similarly. Out of the 10,168 Formula Firebirds built in 1973, only 730 were built with the L75 455. Additionally, only 553 Formula Firebirds were built with ram air. That makes this 455-powered 1973 Pontiac Formula Firebird quite an interesting find. Also worth noting is the lengthy list of options on the below invoice.
“Factory matching numbers 455 Ram Air Formula! Buccaneer Red exterior with Black Deluxe interior and black vinyl top,” says the seller. “Paint is approx. 25 years old but still shows well with a few flaws.” The engine is original, but the TH400 automatic is a replacement.
In retrospect, a Plan B can sometimes pay off as much as a Plan A. For $32.950, you can pick up this Formula Firebird and brag to cruise night spectators that it’s rarer than a Super Duty Trans Am — that may not be an inaccurate statement. And with the money you save, you’ll have ample road-mile opportunities, something a Super Duty owner may not be so keen on.
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com
