What set the Trans Am apart from its peers was not just its range-topping 400-cubic-inch V8 but also the enhancements to its suspension, steering, and body. It sported exclusive features, including a distinct engine hood, spoilers, and wheels. The Trans Am’s popularity was so enduring that it remained in continuous production until 2002.
Of all the Trans Ams, the first-year 1969 version is the most coveted among collectors. Unfortunately, it’s also the rarest, as Pontiac only produced 697 examples that year.
While the exact number of survivors remains a mystery, it’s safe to assume that many of the 1969 Trans Ams we’ve come across are likely replicas. Much like the one before you.
So why discuss an imitation? Because this particular Pontiac isn’t just another Firebird with blue stripes and a rear spoiler. Its owner unleashed their creative spirit by replacing the original powerplant with a mighty LS2 V8.
The LS2, a member of GM’s fourth-generation small-block family, made its debut in the 2005 Chevrolet Corvette. This 6.0-liter powerhouse delivered a formidable 400 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. It found a home in various GM vehicles, from the Chevy SSR to the Cadillac CTS-V, and even the final generation of the Pontiac GTO from 2005 to 2006. So, seeing it transplanted into an old Trans Am isn’t as unconventional as it may seem.
Adding to the intrigue, the owner adorned the front fascia with “428” and “Bobcat” badges. This muscle car isn’t content with merely masquerading as a Trans Am; it craves a slice of Royal Pontiac fame. This was the renowned dealership responsible for shoehorning 428-cubic-inch V8s into full-size Pontiacs of the era. These Bobcats, based on the GTO and Firebird, have become rare and highly sought-after treasures.
Certainly, this 1969 Firebird might have an identity crisis, but it’s an undeniably impressive build, particularly for those who appreciate restomods. The extra stripes and the “428 Bobcat” emblem on the front grille may be a matter of personal taste, but a 400-horsepower Pontiac is impossible to ignore, whether it’s an authentic Trans Am or an ordinary Firebird. Moreover, this example boasts impeccable aesthetics inside and out. Witness this remarkable transformation in the video below and let its charm captivate you.