1983 Pontiac Trans Am Daytona 500 Pace Car Five-Speed

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Huntsville, Alabama — or “Rocket City,” as we know it — is home to NASA rocket-propulsion research and development. Nothing quite encapsulates the launch and excitement of the region as this out-of-world collection of cars including movie cars and tributes, desirable classics, and a rocket truck itself. 3… 2… 1… These cars are ready for blastoff, and all will be launched to new homes and garages as all lots are presented with NO RESERVE.     *  *  *     “It began as a dream born of the collective consciousness of a few inspired designers and engineers,” Pontiac’s brochure explained. The third-generation Pontiac Trans Am was indeed an inspired machine, and to show it off, a special edition Trans Am was chosen to pace the Daytona 500 in 1982 and again in ’83 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of “The Great Race.” 

The 1983 model featured a distinctive white and charcoal two-tone paint scheme, complemented by a striking graphics package that included “Daytona 500” decals. Under the hood, it was equipped with a 305 cubic-inch V8 engine with either an automatic transmission, or the rare five-speed manual transmission option. The WS6 suspension package with rear disc brakes was also standard. The 1983 Daytona 500 Pace Car model featured a special aerodynamic design, including a functional hood scoop and aero wheel covers, while the interior boasted leather Recaro seats and instruments with red backlighting. 

A limited number of these pace cars were produced, with only 2,500 units made. Of those, just 520 were equipped with the optional five-speed manual transmission, like this well-preserved Pace Car. 

Highlights 

• Offered from The Rocket City Collection 

• Powered by a 305 cu-in LG4 V8 engine 

• Uncommon optional five-speed manual transmission 

• Recaro SST seats trimmed in silver leather with gray suede inserts 

Features 

• Special 15x7 white “Aero” wheels 

• BFGoodrich T/A P235/60R15 98S tires 

• Leather Recaro seats 

• “Daytona 500” decals (not installed) 

• “Official Pace Car” decals (not installed) 

• “25th Anniversary Daytona 500” emblems 

• Delco-GM AM/FM/Cassette stereo with equalizer  

• Air conditioning 

Known Imperfections 

• The CARFAX Vehicle History Report notes on 23 December 2010: “Accident reported: minor damage,” “Vehicle involved in a sideswipe collision with another motor vehicle,” and “It hit a parked motor vehicle.” No damage is currently evident. 

• Black trim is peeling at the nose 

• Leather “bumper” on driver’s side of center console is pulling away

• The AC does not blow cold air

• Tachometer is not operating correctly

• Radio does not display channels correctly but functions fine otherwise

• Headliner is slightly sagging 

Included 

• Keys 

• Daytona 500 floor mats 

Ownership History 

The accompanying CARFAX Vehicle History Report places the owner of this 1983 Pontiac Trans Am Daytona 500 Pace Car in Maryland and Florida. It joined The Rocket City Collection in 2024. 

Additional Notes 

A Broad Arrow Auctions Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty.  

Contact: Ramsey Potts  Phone: 912.508.4096  email: rpotts@hagerty.com