There are a few fascinating parts of this 1977 Pontiac advert, each of which we’ll deal with momentarily.
However first, in perusing this advert, it’s vital to do not forget that this commercial—and the automotive featured—appeared throughout the depths of the “malaise period.” Malaise period is a time period coined—lengthy after the actual fact—to described the last decade or so after federal emissions necessities and low-lead gasoline led to a critical drop in automotive engine horsepower. The consensus typically places the period because the mannequin years between 1973 and 1983. Mass adoption of gasoline injection largely ended the malaise interval, as makers had been in a position to once more ship engines with compelling energy numbers.
1977 Pontiac Can Am
Restricted Version
As for this advert, we’re struck by two fascinating factors. First, the advert means that the Can Am could be a “restricted version” mannequin, however didn’t drive house simply how restricted it might be. Whereas Pontiac retailed greater than 81,000 LeMans examples in 1977, simply 1377 had been Can Ams. And, that is key, 1977 was the one mannequin 12 months the Can Am was constructed.
The Goat
Secondly, whereas the advert mentions “The Goat,” it by no means truly mentions the legendary GTO. That pioneering muscle automotive was supplied between 1964 and 1974. Pontiac started referring the GTO as The Goat in 1969 adverts, however lovers had coined and used the time period a lot earlier. We will solely assume that Pontiac entrepreneurs feared drawing too closely on the GTO legend to market a automotive that, dulled by malaise circumstance, was however a shadow of the maker’s legendary muscle automotive. That mentioned, we’d argue that the Cam Am was truly fairly cool, and positively thrilling by 1977 requirements.
Actual Muscle Automobile
Based mostly on the midsize LeMans, the Can Am was a real muscle automotive by basic definition. It featured a big engine crammed beneath the hood of a midsize automotive—similar to the GTO. And, similar to the “Goat,” the Can Am boasted just a few upgrades, together with a beefed-up suspension, heavy-duty brakes, handling-oriented tires, and a sturdy transmission. The Can Am got here solely with a 3-speed computerized.
Engines
Energy for many Can Ams got here from a Pontiac-built 200-horsepower, 400-cubic-inch (6.6-liter) V8. California and high-altitude examples made do with a 185-horse Oldsmobile-sourced 403-inch mill (additionally 6.6-liter). The latter engine made up for many of its horsepower deficit with an abundance torque accessible low within the rev vary.
Trans Am Engine
Enjoyable truth: The hood-scoop badge on fashions geared up with the 400-inch engine learn “T/A 6.6,” whereas Olds-engine-equipped examples got here with badges that learn merely, “6.6.” This as a result of in 1977 the 400 was additionally discovered beneath the hood of Pontiac’s flagship Firebird Trans Am.
Colours
Of the Can Ams constructed, 1335 went to American clients, and simply 42 to Canadian Pontiac followers. So, for those who spot a Can Am with a metric speedometer, you’re taking a look at one thing fairly uncommon. Oh, and each Can Am left the manufacturing facility in Cameo White (Pontiac paint code 11). When you see photos of a black Can Am on-line—as we now have—you’re taking a look at an aftermarket paint job.
Collectible
All issues thought of, we discover the Can Am to be a formidable effort given the period of which it was born. Automobile collectors appear to agree. Sources recommend that simply 300 Can Ams stay in existence, and that they typically commerce for between $30,000 and $40,000. That mentioned, not less than one well-preserved ‘Am commanded greater than $80,000 at public sale.
So, perhaps the Can Am is one thing of a fake muscle automotive, however it’s additionally fairly cool. And it’s completely within the spirit of authentic GTO. Bear in mind the Goat, certainly.
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Pontiac Can Am Footage
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