Pontiac Firebird Sprint Tribute, Green, for sale in Charlotte, North Carolina, for $27,995.

Pontiac wasn't just about muscle in the '60s, they were the GM division bent on building cars that could compete with European-style sports cars. When the Firebird debuted, there were already plans in the works to build the Firebird Sprint like this 1968 example. With an overhead cam inline-six and better weight distribution than the V8 models, it was positioned to appeal to a customer for whom going around corners was just as important as all-out speed.

This beautiful Firbird Sprint convertible carries the same great looks as the V8 model, and has escaped the fate of most of the six-cylinder cars that were upgraded to V8 power. Someone invested heavily to get the body this nice, from the arrow-straight sheetmetal to the expertly applied paint, the cost of the work is far, far more than the sticker price. The Sprint was also largely devoid of addons and body modifications, allowing the clean look of the Firebird body to shine through brilliantly. New details for 1968 include the Pontiac chevron side marker lights and chrome inserts in the gills just ahead of the rear wheels. You'll also note that this car carries the optional hood-mounted tachometer, which is a highly desirable feature that is seldom found in operational condition. The chrome-rimmed front grille and rear bumper have been replated and show extremely well, and it appears that all the stainless has spent some time under the polisher's wheel.

The European influence continues inside, with high-backed bucket seats and a wood steering wheel. Restored when the bodywork was done, the interior shows extremely well with only slight signs of usage and no damage or blemishes. The gauges all appear to have been rebuilt, or else they're the most perfectly preserved instruments I've ever seen, and the original AM radio remains in the dash. Fresh black carpets, new door panels, and beautifully restored wood appliqués give the Pontiac an upscale feel that's entirely appropriate for its mission. Although it's manually operated, the black vinyl convertible top folds easily and offers a crystal clear plastic rear window, as original.

Increased to 250 cubic inches in 1968, the OHC six churned out a respectable 215 horsepower thanks to a Rochester Quadrajet carburetor and factory dual exhaust. Other upgrades included a high-lift/longer-duration cam, dual valve springs, high-flow intake manifold, and a high-performance suspension. Finished in the same Pontiac Turquoise as the V8s, the Sprint Six looks unusual under the hood of the Firebird, but delivers spirited performance and simply wonderful handling thanks to 200-300 fewer pounds over the front axle. Both the engine and the 2-speed Powerglide transmission were rebuilt less than 10,000 miles ago, and the result is a car that's a delight to drive and draws a crowd at every show it attends. Lovely Rally II wheels carry modern Firestone radials, one of the few deviations from stock specification.

Appreciated for their performance, handling, and rarity, this Sprint Six convertible is a great opportunity to own one of Pontiac's better ideas. Call today!