The 1969 Camaro is probably the most popular F-body ever built. But what about its cousin, the Firebird? It’s the same car under the skin, offers greater comfort, equal performance, a bit more luxury, and even some exclusivity: Firebird production amounted to about 35% that of the Camaro (87,708 Firebirds vs. 243,085 Camaros). Even if you’re not a Pontiac guy, those are pretty good reasons to choose this handsome California-bred Firebird over a garden-variety Camaro. And then there’s the price, which is also quite a bit more reasonable. Isn’t it time to give the Firebird a closer look?

Having spent almost the entirety of its life in California and showing just over 37,000 original miles, this is one clean ‘Bird. According to the Protect-O-Plate, it was delivered new in North Hollywood and remained on the west coast until the mid-2000s, so the sheetmetal is remarkably clean. It was treated to a bare-metal repaint in its original code 53 Warwick Blue a few years ago and looks fantastic today. There’s not a ripple or wave on the body, no signs of previous accident damage, and certainly no rust repairs. The creases trailing from the fender openings are razor-sharp and panel gaps are excellent. The clean Firebird shape looks particularly good in the icy blue paint and simple additions like the decklid spoiler and small grills behind the front wheels make it look aggressive without the need for stripes or other flashy add-ons. Chrome is excellent, including the unique bumper/grille assembly up front, and the detailing on these cars bely their reasonable price: check out the delicate Firebird rear side marker lights, the ‘350’ emblems on the hood, and the cross-hair lenses on the front marker lights. There’s a lot to like here.

The blue interior has been freshened wth new seat covers and possibly new carpets, but the rest appears original and in great condition. That shouldn’t be a surprise, given the mileage, and a few bits of simulated burled walnut tend to make the Pontiac interiors a bit more welcoming than the monochromatic Chevys. Options on this Firebird include working factory A/C, a hood tach, and a center console, while the original radio has been upgraded to an AM/FM/cassette head unit that looks like it was born there and powers a pair of 6x9 speakers on the package shelf. Three point belts are still bolted to the overhead brackets and the headliner, which we believe is original equipment, remains in outstanding condition. And despite spending its life in sunny California, the dash pad isn’t cracked or damaged by the sun. The trunk is outfitted with a new reproduction mat and carries what might be the original spare along with the original jack assembly.

Power comes from the original, numbers-matching 350 cubic inch V8 topped by a 2-barrel carburetor. Now before you scoff, remember that Pontiac’s 350 was known for torque and this stout small block cranks out 265 horsepower and a rather stout 355 pounds of torque. Don’t underestimate this engine. It is a correctly coded XB block and a partial VIN is visible on the stamping pad next to the timing chain. It has never been rebuilt, not with just 37,275 miles on it, and it runs superbly. The carb has been recently rebuilt and we have service records dating back more than 30 years so you know it has always been treated well. It fires easily and has a great muscle car rumble through a recent dual exhaust system with chrome tips. Someone spent some time detailing it as well, as it wears correct Pontiac Turquoise paint, some reproduction decals, and correctly stamped coolant hoses. Power steering and power front disc brakes are part of the package, making this Firebird extremely easy to live with and still a lot of fun to drive.

Underneath you’ll see why California cars are just better. Check out those spotless original floors, rockers, and trunk pan! You’ll also note that the 350 cubic inch V8 with A/C included a TH400 3-speed automatic, GM’s best autobox and virtually indestructible when paired with a small block. Shifts are crisp and it makes that awesome quiet whine in first gear that is unique to the transmission. Out back, the 10-bolt rear end is full of 2.93 gears, making this a first-rate highway cruiser. There are new shocks at all four corners and a new gas tank out back, so mechanically this car is ready to rock. Factory Rally II wheels are fitted with 215/70/14 BFGoodrich T/A radials that still have a lot of life left in them.

Documentation is extensive, including the original Protect-O-Plate, owner’s manual, and a pair of original dealer brochures. It also includes full PHS paperwork, maintenance receipts, restoration photos, and the original California black plate.

It would be great if all old cars were as good as this Firebird. It offers great road manners, a comfortable interior, and plenty of power to make things entertaining, all wrapped in bodywork that has no worries about hidden issues. Nicely documented with a matching-numbers powertrain, it’s a car you can buy with confidence and enjoy properly without worrying about investments. Just get in and drive! Call today!

Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or professional inspections of any car in our inventory prior to purchase.