A special edition of one of Pontiac’s most recognizable performance cars is drawing renewed attention among collectors, highlighting its blend of rarity, performance and historical significance.
The 1979 Pontiac Trans Am 10th Anniversary Edition, originally built to commemorate a decade of the Trans Am nameplate, remains one of the most sought-after variants of the second-generation Firebird lineup. Only 5,683 units were produced, making it a limited offering from the start and helping cement its status as a collectible vehicle.
Finished in Platinum Silver Metallic, the anniversary model was designed to stand apart visually while also delivering a fully equipped driving experience. Unlike many vehicles of its era, this edition came standard with a full range of features, including power windows, power locks, cruise control and tilt steering. It also introduced a distinctive silver leather interior, a feature not commonly seen in the Firebird lineup and unique to this generation.
Under the hood, the car is powered by a 6.6-liter V8 engine paired with an automatic transmission. The example highlighted retains its original numbers-matching engine, a key factor for collectors seeking authenticity. With nearly 100,000 miles recorded, the vehicle is described as maintaining strong driving characteristics, offering a smooth and steady ride.
Performance was further enhanced by the inclusion of the WS6 handling package, which added upgraded suspension components and four-wheel disc brakes. This marked the first year that such a braking system was available on the Trans Am, contributing to improved control and stopping power.
The model also holds a place in sports history, as a similar vehicle was awarded to a Super Bowl MVP in 1979, adding to its cultural appeal.
As one of the first Trans Am models to exceed a $10,000 price tag when new, the anniversary edition represented a shift toward higher-end muscle cars. Today, it continues to attract enthusiasts seeking a combination of performance heritage, distinctive styling and limited production appeal. See it here.