Craig couldn't pass up the opportunity to buy the 1968 Pontiac Firebird. It had been sitting neglected in a shed for over a decade. The owners were separating, and the Firebird was part of the fallout.

Craig's 1968 Pontiac Firebird

Photos by Zac Poole

Download Wallpaper: Desktop | Mobile 1 | Mobile 2

It wasn't perfect. In fact, it barely ran. But it was all original, right down to the Turbo 400 automatic transmission. Once Craig was able to get the classic running, he made the deal on the spot and drove the Firebird to its new home that same day.



As with any restoration, some decisions were easy, while others required more time. Choosing the right exterior paint colour proved to take much longer than Craig expected. It's the final piece that brings the entire build together, and he wasn't going to rush it.

He hired NZ Auto Works to complete all the bodywork and paint, making a bold colour choice, deciding on the deep, rich tones of Brandywine Candy from House of Kolor.

"It's a beautiful car that NZ Auto Works proudly built in-house," said Craig.

The pony car delivers exactly what you'd expect from a car built for performance. At its core, a Pontiac 400 cubic inch V8 engine with a 4-barrel carburetor and roller valve train.

"I purchased all mechanical and performance parts through Lordco Auto Parts. They had everything that I needed to get the job done," said Craig.

The automatic transmission features a Stage 2 shift kit, paired with a 12-bolt Positraction differential and a 335:1 gear ratio, more than capable of transferring power to the pavement.

"My parents would be proud of all that I accomplished with this vehicle. It's a beauty with 425 horsepower," he said.

What's next for the Pontiac enthusiast? A 1967 Chevrolet Nova II—another classic with a V8.

Subscribe to our 2026 Calendar and receive a notification when new vehicle stories are released.