1969 PONTIAC TRANS AM RAM AIR IV

Details

In March 1969, Pontiac quietly announced the new Trans Am option for its popular Firebird, based on the prior Pontiac Firebird Sport Turismo and Tunnel-Port racing projects. Named after the immensely popular SCCA Trans-Am racing series, with Pontiac paying a $5 royalty per car to the SCCA, the new Pontiac was instantly recognizable with Cameo White paint, Medium Blue stripes and rear panel, Dark Blue Deluxe upholstery and full-width rear airfoil. Twin fiberglass vents aided engine cooling, while

functional scoops rammed cold air into the 400ci engine. For true performance addicts, the optional Ram Air IV mill delivered 345 factory-rated ponies at a $558.20 cost, mated to a choice of 3- or 4-speed manual transmissions or the high-performance M40 Turbo-Hydramatic automatic transmission. Horsepower aside, the Trans Am's true forte was handling, with a heavy-duty, specially tuned suspension. Variable-ratio power steering, a Safe-T-Track limited-slip differential, and F70-14 Goodyear Polyglas tires on 7-inch Rally II wheels rounded out the T/A. Incredibly rare as one of only 55 1969 Trans Ams optioned with the Ram Air IV mill, this example is one of the nine coupes produced with the optional M40 3-speed automatic transmission; of those, this car is one of two equipped with a column-mounted shifter. Ordered through the Central Office Company Car program, it entered service on June 23, 1969, through Dealer Number 35-997, denoting its status as a Pontiac Motor Division company car. Although its specific company use is unknown, it was delivered to Michael Pontiac in Oakmont, PA, in March 1970 and then sold. In the early 1990s Robert O'Neill of San Bruno, CA, began a comprehensive restoration, including correspondence with General Motors Assistant Zone Service Manager Fred Simmons, who sent O'Neill a letter confirming the Trans Am's original use as a Central Office Company Car, its activation date and dealer number. O'Neill faithfully restored the car as it left the factory in Cameo White with blue stripes, blue custom trim bucket seats and console delete, followed by professional refreshment in 2010 by Level One Restorations of Arvada, CO, followed by acquisition for the Mile High Collection in 2015. Exceptionally rare with its automatic drivetrain and specific options, this 'one of two' Firebird Trans Ams from the inaugural 1969 model year handsomely marks the start of an All-American high-performance legend. From the Mile-High Collection.