Summary

Re-creation as seen in the "Knight Rider" television series aired from 1982-86. Manual-retractable hardtop conversion. Upgraded by former long-term owner. Wide array of K.I.T.T. TV car features. From The Dr. Stewart A. Berkowitz Collection.

Details

This 1983 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am is a re-creation of "K.I.T.T." as seen in the "Knight Rider" television series that aired from 1982 to 1986. Created and produced by Glen A. Larson, "Knight Rider" aired on NBC from September 26, 1982, to April 4, 1986, and featured David Hasselhoff as Michael Knight, a former detective and devout crimefighter with a new identity. Knight's sleek and modern car, named K.I.T.T. (Knight Industries Two Thousand), was based on a modified example of Pontiac's third-generation Firebird Trans Am endowed with fictional artificial intelligence, self-awareness and near-invincibility. Despite scathing critical reviews, "Knight Rider" was immensely popular with viewers, spurring highly authentic re-creations that draw admiring stares everywhere one is sighted today. This captivating 1983 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am-based Knight Rider K.I.T.T. re-creation is even more desirable than most in existence today with its rare manual-retractable hardtop convertible conversion, which a past owner of 17 years (2001-18) stated was available for order through Pontiac dealers and performed by Auto Form. The K.I.T.T. items were added during that ownership. Power is delivered by the original and unmodified GM 305ci V8 engine with Cross-Fire fuel injection, paired with a 4-speed overdrive automatic transmission. TV-inspired highlights include the special dash and aircraft yoke-style steering wheel, iconic red scanner up front, K.I.T.T. voice display with phrases, a 9-inch LCD screen, a lighted horn button with "Knight" logo, cruise with normal, auto and pursuit modes, a lighted gas pedal and correct round shifter knob (machined aluminum). Factory features and options include air conditioning, 4-wheel disc brakes, correct 15-inch Turbo-Cast wheels and covers, newer tires with limited use and power steering, windows, locks, driver's seat and trunk release. Optional power mirrors may require reconnection. Accurate additional features include fog lights and a brake line-lock device. Turn signals/hazard lights were relocated to small bulbs in the fog light openings to maintain street legality. An adjustable front tow bar and custom floor mats also replicate those of the TV car. The LED front scanner has the audio function but has not been connected. Acquired by Dr. Berkowitz in July 2020, this unforgettable and highly equipped "Knight Rider" K.I.T.T. convertible is ready for continued display and enjoyment and comes with manuals, dealer literature and a 1983 Firebird Service manual. Garage-kept and not driven in winter under the prior long-term owner and Dr. Berkowitz, this 1983 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am convertible is completed with a reproduction California "KNIGHT" license plate. From The Dr. Stewart A. Berkowitz Collection.