The 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am was a high point for American muscle cars, embodying bold style and performance in an era increasingly constrained by emissions regulations and fuel economy concerns. As part of the second-generation Firebird lineup (1970–1981), the ’79 Trans Am stood out with its iconic design, cultural relevance, and surprising sales success despite industry challenges.
Design and Styling
The 1979 Trans Am carried forward the aggressive, aerodynamic look introduced in the 1977–1978 refresh, featuring a sloped nose, shaker hood, and distinctive front fascia with four rectangular headlights. Its most iconic feature was the massive “screaming chicken” hood decal—a fiery phoenix that spanned nearly the entire hood, symbolizing the car’s rebellious spirit. Subtle updates for 1979 included a revised front bumper, and a new rear spoiler, giving it a sleeker profile. The T-top roof, removable roof panels, remained a popular option, enhancing the car’s open-air appeal.Available in a range of vibrant colors like Nocturne Blue, Starlight Black, and Solar Gold, the Trans Am’s blacked-out trim, fender flares, and bold graphics cemented its visual dominance. The WS6 performance package added 15-inch aluminum “Snowflake” wheels, wider tires, and a tighter suspension, making it a fan favorite for handling and aesthetics.
Performance
By 1979, stricter emissions standards had sapped power from many muscle cars, but the Trans Am held its ground. It offered two main V8 engine options:
- Pontiac 400 (6.6L) V8: Producing 220 horsepower, this was the top-tier engine, paired exclusively with a four-speed manual transmission. It was the last year for Pontiac’s own 400 engine, making it a collector’s favorite.
- Oldsmobile 403 (6.6L) V8: Rated at 185 horsepower, this engine was less potent but more common, typically paired with a three-speed automatic transmission.
While these numbers pale compared to earlier muscle car eras, the Trans Am’s lightweight chassis (around 3,600 lbs) and tuned suspension made it a capable performer. The WS6 package, with its four-wheel disc brakes, sway bars, and quick-ratio steering, gave the car impressive handling for its size, earning praise for cornering prowess.Top speed for the 400-equipped Trans Am was around 130 mph, with 0–60 mph times in the 6.5–7-second range, respectable for the late ’70s. Fuel economy, however, was dismal, averaging 12–15 mpg, reflecting the car’s unapologetic performance focus during the fuel crisis era.
Cultural Impact
The 1979 Trans Am skyrocketed to fame thanks to its starring role in Smokey and the Bandit (1977), where a black-and-gold Special Edition Trans Am, driven by Burt Reynolds, became a cultural icon. The movie’s success carried into 1979, boosting demand for the black-and-gold color scheme and Special Edition models, which featured gold pinstriping, gold wheels, and a gold-accented hood bird. Pontiac leaned into the hype, offering Bandit-inspired decals and branding.The car’s rebellious image resonated with enthusiasts seeking an antidote to the era’s malaise of underpowered vehicles. Its bold styling and performance made it a symbol of freedom and individuality, cementing its place in pop culture alongside other ’70s icons.
Production and Sales
Despite a declining muscle car market, the 1979 Trans Am was a sales juggernaut. Pontiac sold over 117,000 Firebirds, with roughly 67,000 being Trans Ams—an all-time high for the model. The Special Edition and 10th Anniversary models (celebrating a decade since the Trans Am’s 1969 debut) were particularly sought after. The 10th Anniversary Trans Am, finished in silver with a unique hood graphic and luxurious interior, is now a collector’s gem, with only 7,500 produced.
Legacy
The 1979 Trans Am is celebrated as one of the last true muscle cars before the industry fully pivoted to fuel-efficient designs. Its blend of raw V8 power, sharp handling (especially with WS6), and unmistakable style keeps it revered among collectors. Today, well-preserved or restored examples, particularly those with the Pontiac 400 and four-speed manual, can fetch $40,000–$100,000 at auction, with 10th Anniversary models commanding even higher prices.The car’s enduring appeal lies in its defiance of an era that tried to tame performance cars. It was a loud, brash, and unapologetic statement from Pontiac, and its legacy lives on in car shows, media, and the hearts of enthusiasts who still chase the thrill of the “screaming chicken.”
