This 1967 Pontiac “Fitchbird” is a real rarity, being one of perhaps two or three semi-official prototypes developed as a potential Firebird range-topper. Commissioned by John DeLorean, Fitch was chosen for his success with the Corvair, though his signature buttressed C-pillar “sail panels” were less successful when applied to this shape, ultimately leading to rejection by DeLorean and his team. The ask for this example is certainly hefty, but the car could potentially be worth it considering its fascinating history and extreme rarity. Find it here on eBay in Long Beach, California with no reserve beyond an unmet $250k starting bid. Special thanks to BaT reader Kyle K. for this submission.

The seller notes a 1980 magazine article with more information on this exact car, though the name of the publication isn’t noted and we’ve had no luck finding it online. A brief but informative article on Fitchbird history can be found here, though we’re still left with more questions than answers. Upon rejection from GM brass, Fitch returned the modified cars to Pontiac, shortly after which this example was sold to a management employee for a single dollar. The seller says that this is the same individual from whom it was purchased, and further claim an encounter with Fitch in the late 80’s.

The exterior is quite rough, missing a few totally unobtanium one-off (or perhaps two or three-off) trim pieces like the left side’s sail panel vent piece. The car had been sitting for over 15 years until recently, though the seller claims it will run and drive as-is. The cabin looks to be in relatively decent, serviceable condition, as well as surprisingly unmodified considering the extensive exterior modifications.

It’s unknown if any mechanical modifications were made, but Fitch was an accomplished racer, and surely would have had his eye on extracting more power and handling. In addition to Sebring victories and runs at Le Mans, Fitch was also an acclaimed WW2 P-51 Mustang pilot, counted among the first Americans to shoot down a Messerschmitt Me262 jet fighter.

The seller freely admits to being unsure of the car’s value, which is easy to understand given its unusual place in history. Regardless of its true worth, we hope it gets the full, correct restoration it deserves soon.