On the show field, the SE T/A has taken multiple First Place trophies and earned 275 points of a possible 300 at a regional POCI event. In 2009, the season kicked off for the SE T/A with a Second Place in the SE Modified class at the Trans Am Nats, and two Best of Shows followed. By the end of the season, it had racked up 14 First Place wins at 18 car shows, including one in the Modified Class at the Indian Uprising in St. Charles, Illinois, which "draws over 400 top-notch Pontiacs," according to Gary.
On the strip, it's very quick for what appears to be a stock street car. At a 4,005-pound race weight (3,780-pound curb weight) with a half tank of BP 93 octane mixed with 105 octane E85, and 12 psi in the 26x10.5x15 M/T slicks, Gary launches the T/A at 2,000 rpm and shifts at 5,800 rpm. The result is a 1.50 60-foot time and a 10.83 e.t. at 124.64 mph.
Though he has already outfitted his Pontiac with an SFI-approved flexplate and driveshaft loop, we hope a rollbar and other safety equipment requiredfor the 10s is added if he decides to visit the track again.
The code-N89 15x7.5-inch Turbo...
The code-N89 15x7.5-inch Turbo wheels were restored and now roll with 225-70R15 Firestone Firehawk SS radials.
The turbo boost lights were...
The turbo boost lights were removed from the back of the hood bulge and a screen was installed. The 505 H.O. graphics were created using Third-Gen Trans Am decals.
This Bird emblem is only found...
This Bird emblem is only found on '81 cars.
Conclusion
"I've always wanted to own an SE T/A because it's just a great looking Pontiac," Gary says. "Burt Reynolds made it famous and my SE is a crowd favorite at the shows I attend. I've been building, driving, racing, and restoring Trans Ams for over 30 years and have owned 13 Pontiacs, yet I still enjoy going to car shows and putting my T/A on display because it gives me a feeling of pride. When someone asks me who restored this car I can say, 'I did.'"
That DIY attitude and starting with a Pontiac that was factory equipped with fantastic styling and a top shelf suspension and braking system has enabled Gary to enjoy his SE T/A without having to eat peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for dinner to finance it.