This 1980 Pontiac Firebird Turbo Trans Am Pace Car Edition is a well-preserved, unmodified example of a limited production model. It is a Canadian-market car, with the title correctly marked mileage-exempt due to age, and presents as a rare survivor from an era when most have been heavily modified or driven hard. As a Canadian market car, the odometer notates Kilometers.
Power comes from Pontiac's 301ci (4.9L) turbocharged V8, paired with a TH350 automatic transmission and 3.10 rear gearing. This engine is historically significant as Pontiac's first factory-produced turbocharged V8, delivering a strong 345 lb-ft of torque that helped distinguish it during the emissions-restricted early 1980s. The car is equipped with four-wheel disc brakes, notable standard equipment for the time.
Built in a limited run of approximately 5,700 units, the Turbo Trans Am Pace Car commemorates Pontiac's role as the official pace car for the 64th Indianapolis 500 on May 25, 1980 - the first Trans Am ever selected for that honor. Its cultural impact was further reinforced by celebrity association, including Burt Reynolds' personal ownership of a 1980 Pace Car.
The exterior wears the iconic Cameo White and Charcoal two-tone paint scheme, highlighted by the five-color hood bird with extended fender wingtips. A defining feature is the asymmetrical Turbo hood bulge, housing the offset carburetor and turbo assembly, topped by the externally mounted three-light turbo boost gauge displaying Low, Medium, and High boost levels. 15x8-inch Turbo-style cast aluminum wheels, finished in white, complete the look.
This example is equipped with the WS6 Special Performance Package, adding upgraded suspension and steering components and reinforcing the Trans Am's handling reputation. Inside, the exclusive Oyster interior features gray hobnail cloth seat inserts, embroidered Firebird logos, an engine-turned aluminum dash applique, and red-tinted instrument lighting unique to this edition. Factory equipment includes the digital ETR stereo and mirror-tinted glass T-top roof panels.
Altogether, the 1980 Turbo Trans Am Pace Car Edition stands as one of the most distinctive and collectible late second-generation Firebirds, combining limited production, historical significance, and unmistakable styling in a remarkably original presentation.
See the "videos" tab above this description box for a cold start and walk around.
