Description

1981 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am SE Turbo – T-Tops, Turbo V8, SE Trim, All-Original

This 1981 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am SE Turbo is a final-year example of the second-generation Trans Am and represents the height of ’80s muscle car style and flair. Powered by a turbocharged 4.9-liter V8 paired with a 3-speed automatic transmission, this Special Edition car pairs bold performance with an iconic look—finished in white over a blue cloth interior, with factory T-tops and Rally II wheels.

Showing approximately 99k miles, this Trans Am is said to be all original, and is accompanied by extra factory parts, including a new original front bumper, grilles, headlight moldings, and more. A rare find in such preserved condition, this SE Turbo showcases the distinctive styling and era-defining attitude that make these cars enduring collectibles.

Exterior

The exterior is finished in white, accented by black and gold SE-specific trim, including the iconic “screaming eagle” hood decal, exclusive to the Special Edition models. Factory ground effects and lower spoilers, a rear spoiler, and 15-inch Rally II wheels give the car its aggressive, muscular stance.

This car retains its removable glass T-top panels, a hallmark of late-‘70s and early-‘80s Trans Ams. The seller notes that a set of NOS or original front bumper parts, grilles, and headlight moldings are included with the sale.

Interior

Inside, the car features a blue cloth interior with bucket seats, a center console, and Trans Am-specific instrumentation including a tachometer and full auxiliary gauges. Additional features include power windows, a factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, and a sport steering wheel.

The dash and interior panels appear in well-kept condition, with original finishes and materials preserved. This example offers a time-capsule feel consistent with its well-maintained and unmodified presentation.

Mechanical

Under the hood sits the original 4.9L (301ci) turbocharged V8, paired to a 3-speed automatic transmission and sending power to the rear wheels. The 301 Turbo was Pontiac’s bold response to tightening emissions regulations at the time, and while understated in factory horsepower figures, the turbocharged engine was ahead of its time, marking Pontiac’s continued performance ambitions in the early 1980s.

The car is equipped with power steering, power brakes, and front disc brakes for confident road manners. It remains in original mechanical condition with no reported modifications, retaining its stock engine configuration and factory components.

Additional Details

• All-original example

• 99k miles shown

• Includes extra NOS front bumper, grilles, and trim pieces

• Factory Rally II wheels

• Removable T-top roof

• Power windows and AM/FM cassette stereo

Summary

This 1981 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am SE Turbo offers an excellent opportunity to own a final-year, Special Edition Trans Am with its factory turbo V8, T-tops, and iconic styling all intact. With its original drivetrain, unique color combination, and a collection of spare parts included, this well-preserved example is ready to be enjoyed as-is or taken to the next level by a dedicated enthusiast.

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We offer a 7-day return window for added peace of mind on eligible vehicle purchases. Contact us for terms and eligibility details.

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We specialize in offering a wide selection of quality vehicles—both in-house stock and consignment listings—securely stored at our facilityes. Every vehicle undergoes inspection by our in-house quality assurance team.

 Services Included:

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• Nationwide delivery up to 2,000 miles (included in price)

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• Flexible auction and fixed-price purchase options

 Storage Location: San Diego, CA

 Inspection, Delivery & Handover Process:

• Begins within 7–10 business days after full payment is received and cleared.

• Price includes vehicle cost + 3% auction fee.

• Shipping up to 2,000 miles is included in the final price.

• Vehicles can also be collected directly from our warehouse.

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Whether you prefer the excitement of bidding or the simplicity of fixed pricing, we offer a buying experience that’s secure, streamlined, and tailored to your needs.