It is a given conclusion that, if I had the money to do whatever I wanted, that I would rather build than buy when it comes to automobiles. Don’t get me wrong, something like a newer Ram 5500 with a fifth wheel and all the luxury trimmings for hauling a trailer with would rule. But if I’m going to spend money, why not build something completely catered to me? There really isn’t anything on the new market that scratches that itch.
This 1978 Pontiac LeMans certainly is a great base. I like the 1978-’81 A-bodies better than the G-body cars like the Monte Carlo and Cutlass, and I like the LeMans more than the Malibu, especially when it comes to the dasboard and the multi-gauge look compared to a Malibu’s basic sweep speedometer and lone fuel gauge. Black paint suits me, the factory sunroof is a nice touch, the console-shift auto is ideal, I dig the wheels, and I don’t even mind that there is a stock 305 Chevy under the hood. With 86,000-plus miles on the clock, you get the feeling that this car was owned by someone who doted on it, loved it, cared for it like a family member. In fact, for $7,500, what is the catch here?
Oh. Well, then.
Here’s the thing: It’s just bodywork. If I’m throwing a nearly-unlimited amount of money at this car, I would be going through everything anyways, so what is the harm in fixing the quarter-panel of a full-frame, rear-drive GM that would still be a comfortable cruiser? Fix the metal, build the 305 to make good power (yes, it can be done), swap in an overdrive automatic and call it a day.
This LeMans deserves to be brought back to life. It didn’t deserve what happened that caused the rear quarter to be bashed in like that.
