Lovers of classic cars will quickly recognize the significance of this model. This gold, 1978 Pontiac Firebird was one of three which were used in the television show “The Rockford Files,” starring James Garner. Provided for use and filming by the Pontiac Motor Company, the car was driven by Garner and appears in many memorable scenes from 1978 through 1980. At the end of the series, he purchased the car, driving it until 1981, after which it has since been restored by Mike Flaherty, a renowned Pontiac restorer. For those willing to part with the coin, it’s up for auction through Barrett-Jackson.
Lifestyle
‘Rockford Files’ Pontiac Firebird Auction Gets Attention from Famous Fans
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Photo: barrett-jackson.com
The image and link to the auction were shared by Mike Rowe (of “Dirty Jobs” fame) on his Facebook page, along with a post that read: “I don’t collect things. I definitely don’t collect cars. My current vehicle is fourteen years old, and acting like it. But if I did, and if I could somehow bring myself to write checks for things I don’t need, this would get my attention…” Clearly, Rowe has an affinity for the model, as do many fans of the show, Garner, and the sharp-looking Pontiac Firebird. It’s a car that brings to mind the era, the speed, and power under the hood, and the essence that the Jim Rockford character personified – cool, sharp, witty, and talented. Who wouldn’t want to feel that way? Can a car make that happen for you? To a certain degree.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Known for its automotive lifestyle events and collector car auctions, Barrett-Jackson touts its events as “The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions.” The firebird auction from “The Rockford Files” isn’t the only impressive sale to put a feather in its cap. In August, the company reported on the missing 1967 Ford Shelby GT500 prototype which was found rotting in a field in North Texas, which the company’s chairman and CEO described as the “…discovery of a lifetime.” It appears that what countless car enthusiasts look for, Barrett-Jackson can find or has sold. If their name is branded to the model’s mark of authenticity and/or its sale, one can bet good money it’s a quality piece any collector would cherish. This 1978 Pontiac Firebird is just one of many that the auction house has handled with kid gloves, and the proof will be in the pudding. The sale is listed on their bid site at the link provided here. The car comes complete with a copy of the original dealer invoice showing its delivery to the Sherman Oaks, California, location that Vista Group/Product Placement would get their vehicles from, as well as a letter from James Garner’s production company which identifies the model as the very same Firebird Formula 400 used in filming.
