The 1979 Solar Gold Trans Am stands out as one of the most visually striking muscle cars of the late 1970s. While the black "Bandit" edition often grabs headlines, the bright metallic gold paint code 50 Solar Gold version captured the peak aesthetic of the disco era. Finding an authentic, well-preserved example requires knowing what to look for under the hood, inside the cabin, and across the trim tags.
Production numbers for the second-generation Firebird hit an all-time high in 1979, with total Firebird output reaching over 211,000 units and Trans Am variants crossing the 117,000 mark. Solar Gold was available on standard Trans Ams and featured prominently on the Pontiac Firebird lineup during a transitional era for American performance. This guide covers factory specifications, powertrain options, common restoration traps, and what to verify before buying one today.
Factory Specifications and Color Codes
Paint code 50 Solar Gold defined the exterior of these cars, paired with distinctive dark brown and gold decal packages. Unlike the black special editions, Solar Gold cars utilized matching gold cast aluminum "snowflake" wheels and warm interior colorways, most notably Camel Tan or dark carmine.
The 1979 model year introduced a heavily revised front fascia featuring four rectangular headlamps housed in separate molded plastic buckets, alongside a new flat-plane taillamp arrangement that stretched across the rear decklid. Collectors evaluating a Solar Gold car should check the Fisher body tag on the firewall to confirm code 50 is stamped as the original exterior paint.
Engine Options and Performance
Performance in 1979 depended heavily on which engine code ended up under the Shaker hood scoop. Federal emissions regulations meant buyers faced a patchwork of displacement offerings:
- W72 T/A 6.6 400 cubic-inch V8: The holy grail for performance purists, producing 220 horsepower with a four-speed manual transmission. Pontiac stockpiled these blocks, making 1979 the final year for the legendary Pontiac 400.
- Oldsmobile 403 cubic-inch V8: Coded L80, this engine produced 185 horsepower and came exclusively with an automatic transmission. It powered the vast majority of automatic Trans Ams due to high demand and parts availability.
- Pontiac 301 cubic-inch V8: A lighter small-block alternative producing roughly 150 horsepower, often chosen for cruising and fuel economy rather than raw acceleration.
Pairing any of these engines with the WS6 Special Performance Package transforms the car's road manners. WS6 added 15x8-inch wheels, stiffer springs, thicker anti-roll bars, tighter steering gear ratios, and—starting in 1979—available rear disc brakes.
Inspecting a Solar Gold Trans Am Today
Purchasing a vintage Trans Am requires a careful physical inspection. Rust remains the primary enemy of second-generation F-bodies. Pay close attention to the rear frame rails, lower quarter panels, trunk floor pans, and the base of the rear window where moisture frequently pools.
T-top leaks represent another common issue. Factory-installed hatch roofs (Code CC1) often allowed water to seep into the cabin, rotting the floorboards underneath the molded carpet. Inspect the weatherstripping around the glass panels and verify whether the car originally came with T-tops or solid roofs by decoding the VIN and body tag.
Interior and Trim Verification
The interior features an engine-turned aluminum dash applique that came in gold anodized finishes on special packages. Check the steering wheel wrap, center console condition, and dash pad for cracking caused by decades of sun exposure. Original bucket seats should feature correct upholstery patterns matching the trim code listed on the door sticker.
Market Value and Buying Tips
Values for clean, numbers-matching Solar Gold Trans Ams have risen steadily as collectors look beyond standard black Bandit clones. Cars equipped with the W72 400 engine and a four-speed manual command a significant premium over standard automatic 301 or 403 models.
When evaluating a prospective purchase, always request documentation such as original build sheets, window stickers, and maintenance records. Joining owner registries like the National Firebird & Trans Am Club can provide invaluable guidance for authenticating rare factory options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I verify a real Solar Gold Trans Am?
Check the cowl tag on the driver-side firewall. The paint code should read 50 or 50L 50U for Solar Gold. Additionally, verify that the VIN starts with 2W87 (for Trans Am coupes built in Norwood) or 2X87 (built in Van Nuys).
Did Solar Gold come with snowflake wheels?
Yes, most Solar Gold Trans Ams were ordered with matching gold-accented 15x8-inch cast aluminum snowflake wheels, which completed the monochromatic factory appearance.
What is the difference between the W72 and L80 engines?
The W72 is a Pontiac-built 400 cubic-inch V8 known for higher output and dual exhaust capabilities, while the L80 is an Oldsmobile-sourced 403 cubic-inch V8 mated exclusively to automatic transmissions.
Are parts easy to find for 1979 Trans Ams?
Second-generation Firebirds enjoy exceptional aftermarket support. Sheet metal, interior soft parts, weatherstripping, and mechanical components are widely available through specialized restoration suppliers.
