Car: Pontiac Firebird Trans Am 455 SD
Year: 1972
What makes it special: The second generation Pontiac Firebird didn’t debut until February of 1970 due to a delay from tooling and engineering issues. This generation was only available in coupe form as the convertibles stopped with the 1969 model year, and would not return until the 1991 model year.
What made it famous: Pontiac’s 455 cu in V8 first became available for the 1971 model year in either the 325hp, L75 or the 335hp LS5 HO which was standard and the only Trans Am engine option. The HO also included Ram-Air IV. Of course, the famed “Flaming” Bird adorned the hood, and the Shaker Hood made the model famous.
Why I would want one: Anyone who is a car fan either has or wanted to own a Trans Am at some point in their life.
Fun fact: During a 1972 strike, both the Pontiac Firebird and F-Body Chevrolet Camaro were nearly dropped.