Finding and buying this car was totally involved with the white ’73 SD. Bought in 1992, this is simply an extension of that story.
While visiting David at his home in Oklahoma, I did not see all of his cars, since some were under car covers. Therefore, as we negotiated the price of the ’73 SD, I was caught off guard when he countered with selling me two cars. Since I had never seen the ’79 Trans Am, I had to take David’s word about its originality and condition. It did sound intriguing, since he said he purchased a quantity of three identical cars to obtain a special run of cars in paint code number 51—Sundance Yellow.
Once it arrived, we found out from the window sticker that indeed he had been able to order the car in Sundance Yellow. Most publications of that period, including the dealer album, show this color as available in the base Firebird, Esprit, and Formula, but not the Trans Am. A quick check of the firewall tag shows the proper 51 paint code.
The car is excellent. It was always stored in his garage and has original tires showing the correct date code. This car, like the white ’73 SD, is heavily optioned.
Paperwork that accompanied the car includes the all-important window sticker showing about 20 options. This is confirmed by the Pontiac Historical Service data.
Written January 17, 2015, Steve Ames
Last Edited: January 6, 2025, JA
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