Custom-Tuned 1989 Pontiac Trans Am GTA, Low Original Mileage

Engine: Custom-tuned 383 Stroker
Fuel injection type: Tuned Port
Transmission: 700R4 (4-speed Automatic)
Estimated wheel horsepower: ~400
Sale price: $9000 or best offer
Now available for your consideration is this unique, heavily modified and custom-tuned '89 Trans Am GTA. This vehicle is in overall very good condition for its age - it has been garaged or stored for most of its life and I have devoted a great deal of time, money and love to its restoration. While it could still use some relatively minor cosmetic work to really bring out its shine, it is mechanically sound and runs beautifully; all of the original options in the GTA package like the retractable headlights, electric mirrors, power windows and automatic latch mechanism on the rear hatch are still functioning. The original radio/cassette deck is included, but due to the handiwork of an irresponsible previous owner, they are not currently hooked up and will likely require a new wiring harness if you wish to reconnect them. The heat and blower fans still work, though frankly I've never even attempted to use the air conditioning as this is the kind of car best driven on a summer day with the windows rolled down and possibly the T-tops stowed (I was not provided with a bag for the T-tops, but aftermarket bags can be acquired fairly inexpensively online).
The engine is a 383 Stroker, meaning that it has been bored out (to 30 in this case, I'm told) and the length of the stroke increased. During the restoration process I installed a brand-new hydraulic roller cam and Diamond brand pistons, which currently have well under 4000 miles on them; the chassis itself has extremely low mileage for its age and according to the previous owner, the engine has less than 30,000 miles on it since being rebuilt and modified (this is taking into consideration my very light and gentle use of the vehicle after it came into my possession). The engine produces terrifying acceleration and impressive torque, and while I don't have access to a dynamometer to verify the exact figures, the previous owner informed me that the wheel horsepower output falls in the range of about 400 (he was unable to provide an estimate of the torque output). This is a performance engine and while it will run on ordinary 87-octane unleaded gasoline, it is designed for 91-93 octane, which is all I have ever used with it. Since braking is somewhat crucial with this much power, I have paid regular attention to the brakes and recently had a new master cylinder installed. The transmission is a 4-speed automatic 700R4 which the previous owner told me was modified to be able to handle the additional torque from the engine, and the car quite literally slams through its gears. The rims are aftermarket and sport large-diameter, extra-wide, high-traction racing tires, with the rear pair slightly larger than the front pair; the rear end has been lifted about two inches to better accommodate the tires and mitigate pitch on acceleration.
This car has the aftermarket Cars & Concept target tops that were offered under warranty to replace the original factory T-roof, which was notorious for leaking; the C&C T-top is properly sealed and does not leak in the rain. The carpeting and most of the upholstery is in excellent condition with the exception of the small section of carpet covering the transmission hub, which the previous owner foolishly cut in order to get at the speaker wires so he could install a subwoofer (fortunately this is the only other damage he managed to do, and while I've prioritized the engine and other mechanical work over the interior, this small section of carpeting should be fairly easy and inexpensive to replace). The original leather wrap on the steering wheel will also need replacing (or could simply be removed as the synthetic underneath it is still in perfect condition), but again, this is a relatively small and simple repair. The only significant interior work the car will require is a new headliner as the current one is falling off in places (pictured); however, I have already acquired the plastic trim pieces necessary for this purpose and will include them with the car upon sale. I have stored the car during the winter months and never driven it in the snow, so the undercarriage is in solid shape without too much rust or corrosion; it also has a new stainless steel exhaust system which I had installed shortly after acquiring the car (though the current exhaust tips came with the car and are apparently from a Pontiac Grand Prix of the same model year).
The paint is in generally good condition apart from a few small chips on the spoiler (pictured); it shows the typical scuffs and a few light scratches you'd expect after 28 years, although I recently had the front fender, driver-side quarterpanel and passenger door professionally welded and repainted so the paint in these areas is in like-new condition. The car also has a somewhat unusual modification which was apparently done by the original owner: the exterior door handles have been completely removed, and the door latches are instead operated from outside by a remote fob (pictured). Two sets of keys will be included with the car, along with two corresponding fobs for opening the doors; in a pinch, it is also possible (although somewhat uncomfortable) to enter the vehicle through the rear hatch, which can still be opened from outside using the corresponding key. While the practical value of this modification may be questionable, my insurance company regards it as an anti-theft measure and so offers me a nominal discount on the insurance premiums. Moreover, as this vehicle is in excess of 25 years old, it qualifies as a classic car in the state of Connecticut and is therefore exempt from emissions testing.
I will accept cash, bank wire transfer or certified cheque only, though I require an immediate and non-refundable $500 deposit via PayPal upon auction closure as your assurance that you are a serious buyer. Please contact me within seven days of auction closure to arrange payment. If you will be paying with a cheque or wire transfer, the transaction must fully clear before I will release the vehicle. I have a clean title in my name, so the transfer of ownership will be swift and efficient. You are responsible for arranging pickup and/or transportation of the vehicle, though you could potentially just drive it home as long as you bring your own (valid) license plates. If you are seriously considering purchasing the car and would like to take a look at it in person, please send me a private message here on eBay so that we can arrange a time for you to look it over and "kick the tires." While I've done my best to provide a detailed and thorough description of the vehicle, you are welcome to ask me any questions you might still have and I can provide additional pictures upon request. Please note that the car is also for sale locally and I will cancel this listing if I receive a competitive offer from a serious local buyer. I reserve the right to cancel the sale of this vehicle at any time if I have any reason to suspect fraud or illegal activity.
Thank you for your consideration.