Classic four-speed Trans Am in factory Carousel Red shines as a survivor from the peak of 1970s muscle car flair.
A rare 1976 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am finished in factory-original Carousel Red is turning heads this month as it hits the collector market in remarkably preserved, unrestored condition.
Celebrated for its bold styling and performance credentials, the 1976 Trans Am represents one of the final years of true muscle car bravado before tightening emissions standards and insurance rates tamed the American performance market. This particular example offers enthusiasts a chance to step back into a golden era, complete with period-correct performance and attitude.
Powering this Trans Am is a 400-cubic-inch V8 engine producing 185 horsepower and a stout 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a factory four-speed manual transmission. A Safe-T-Track limited-slip differential and Pontiac’s famed Radial Tuned Suspension help manage the power while delivering agile handling for the era. The engine’s power feeds through a heavy-duty clutch installed just 4,000 miles ago, with additional mechanical refurbishments including updated brake components, new fuel lines, a fresh alternator, and a tuned ignition system—all helping to keep this Firebird running strong.
What sets this car apart is its finish: code 78 Carousel Red, a one-year-only color that makes it especially desirable among collectors. The original black interior features an engine-turned dashboard with full instrumentation, as well as the original AM radio and factory-installed 8-track player—a nostalgic nod to cruising culture in the 1970s.
With just over 54,000 miles believed to be original, this Firebird is a prime example of a well-maintained, unrestored survivor. As muscle cars of the 1970s continue to gain traction among collectors, this Trans Am—an icon of performance, pop culture, and Pontiac heritage—offers a rare opportunity to own a true American classic, just as it was nearly 50 years ago. See it here.
