Based on nothing but appearance, the 1974 model is among my favorites of the second-generation Firebirds in the looks department, maybe because it was the last year before the back window gained the side glass, plus it still had the round headlights up front.  Not that I dislike either of the later updates, in fact, I do, but the ’74 is just sort of mouthwatering from most every angle outside in my eyes!  If you’ve been in the market for a nice mid-seventies F-Body driver with more cubic inches than it was born with, this 1974 Pontiac Firebird Formula might be a great contender.  The car’s present home is in Brooklyn, New York, and it can be found here on eBay with bidding currently standing at $16,600.

The 400 has been swapped out for a 455, although beyond the cubic inches of the engine we don’t get a whole lot more information about the transformation, such as where the motor came from, whether or not it’s had a rebuild, modifications, or much of anything else.  The seller does say that it starts right up, runs and drives great, and sounds amazing.  There’s also now a Doug Nash 5-Speed, and I have to agree with the owner that a Doug Nash transmission is quite a fun piece of equipment to go through the gears in.

Like the 455, we’re not given much background on the car’s exterior either, other than the seller mentioning that the body is in great shape and the black paint shines beautifully, and he also points out that the hood hinges need adjustment. Fortunately, we do get several photos from outside, which seem to show a mostly straight Firebird, sans hood hinges, and that finish does look nice and glossy, plus black paint is really bad for showing flaws underneath so it does appear like we’re seeing a good body on this one.

There’s the normal wear inside that’s to be expected from a nearly 50-year-old vehicle, but overall the interior presents more than acceptable for a driver, which is exactly how the seller describes his Formula.  He’s upfront in saying that it’s not a perfect show or museum car, but rather something you can turn the key in and have lots of fun with, which seems reasonable and I hope that’s how it stays, as everything seems just right like it is now to enjoy driving it and not having to worry about getting a scratch or two here and there.  I’m liking this 1974 Firebird Formula and am appreciating what it is and not too concerned regarding what it isn’t- how about you?