I had a ‘66 Mustang convertible in college. Drove it cross-country from Michigan to LA. Sold it in ‘89, and like 15 years later, a guy found my name in the glovebox and reached out to let me know it was safely in his garage in London!
@@borismcfinnigan3430 agreed Boris! I had the ‘77 hurst hatch with the TA 400 (Pontiac block) and Muncie 4 speed. Was nice to see the effort he put into locating that car. It’s heartwarming that it didn’t get sitting there indefinitely! I once tried an hour at 100 mph the car handled it well. Then it took 1.5 hours to come back lol
@@TWilson-t8h what I mean is I have a lot of similar experiences as the original poster but I choose not to blab it out here and switch the focus on me that's all. I don't understand why people do that. It's just me.
@@mrp2561 I understand and appreciated your humility, but as you can see, people come here for exactly those kind of stories. I feel you would be adding something, as opposed to taking away. Not trying to change your mind, just adding my point of view. Take care, either way. ✌️👍
I am in tears! That's a gorgeous vehicle. I don't blame him for wanting to stare at it awhile! His wife is probably so happy he can't bring it in the bedroom at night.
@@jv6miataYeah you couldn't even put a down payment on one these days but back then you could. I lived it........damn I'm old 😂😂😂
13 днів тому+10
no that isn't true minimum wage in those years was 2.65 an hour a single guy that was about 90 bucks a week after taxes as i recall. trans ams were like 5-6 k as i recall
It was $2.35 when I was 16 and I am the same age as he is.
13 днів тому
@@mfreund15448 i don't know what state your in. but in 1978 California minimum wage was 2.65 an hour. I was 15 years old. so i don't doubt what your saying for a second, just saying what i know to be fact in California in 1978. I think the next step was 3.10 in 1980
It is SOOO incredibly infuriating to me when people claim that the car means so much to them and they want to keep it yet they will leave it sitting outside for years to rot away.
That's how humans work we tend to be hoarders and in the person's mind they will get to it someday. Your not a car guy if you don't have that one project for me it's a 1931 model a sitting since 1958 every time I think about fixing it life happens and everything else breaks.
I have a similar story. I sold my 1970 T/A Challenger in 1986 that I had wanted since I was in the 8th grade and I finally got it when I was 19 years old. Fast forward getting married everyone but me thought I needed to sell it to buy stuff for the house. So I finally broke down and sold her. I remember the day they loaded it on the rollback I laid my hand on the fender and told her I would find her again one day. How about 4 months ago, 38 years after I last saw her, I found her and worked out a deal to get her back. I unloaded her in the same place I loaded her 38 years ago. I won't ever sell her again. It still had the same keychain on the keys that I had put on it 38 years ago.
That was a fantastic story, I had no intention on watching 19 minutes of this but I was captivated, I'm so glad this guy (and fellow Trumpeter) found and got back his car.....I'd watch these all day :)
I used to own a 1991 Trans Am 5.0. white with a black cloth interior n I made the mistake of letting my oldest daughter drive it when I got it back it had a blown motor 😮😢🤬🤬
Love this story!! While tiling a shower an hour from my house, I drove past my old 1997 eclipse gsx, which I sold 8 years ago. Loved that car, was my baby, and I'm in negotiations to buy it back. 100% understand he's feelings toward that car. Glad you got it back
Good for you bro. My regret was selling my 1986 W123 Mercedes… I got it to 260,000 miles and the rust got too bad. The wife was on at me to sell it and I gave in… regret it to this day 8 years later
Outstanding! I know the feeling I sold my Chevelle unwillingly 20 years ago and made a last ditch effort to get it back with a hand written letter to the owner and it’s now back in my possession and never going away again
Awesome it's back home! Was there any marks or dents, decals you put on it still there? I still own the 57' Chevy gasser I bought in 1986 for $1000 as a senior in high school. I've done some major sacrifices over the last 30+ years but somehow managed to keep it! I just recently started the process of getting it road worthy after sitting for decades. These tri fives are bringing such crazy money I might not be able to buy another. Rust bucket rolling shells are $10k+!!
@@rodmacd8357 the dude I sold it to just painted it and that was it. My speed declas every 18 year old slaps all over was still on the dash and windows the damn air freshener I put in was still hanging from the vent handle it’s an absolute trip driving it
My dad had a 1979 WS6 Trans-Am. What’s crazy is he loved blue. When he went to the dealer to order it he asked if he could order a black car with a blue bird and trim (black cars came with a brown bird and tan trim). The dealership called the factory and they agreed to do a black car with a blue bird with blue trim and interior stitching. My dad LOVED that car. He ended up having to sell it to afford his honeymoon. I wish we still had the car. It was one of the only factory Trans-Ams that was black with a blue bird on the hood. Car was a Southern California car and he sold it to someone locally that crashed their Trans-Am two weeks before. This was in 1984.
My dad had the 1977 Smokey and the Bandit rep. Dad was an Army recruiter at the time and became the #1 recruiter west of the Mississippi. He'd pick those guys up in that car bring 'em to the house and introduce them to my mom and my sister and I. He said to all of them at some point that the Army made all of what he had possible and they were sold. Unfortunately that car caused a wedge between my parents as he bought that car and traded in her beautiful conversion van for it without even letting her know and it upset he pretty bad. So they split the sheets, my sister and I went with her to live in the ghetto dad got to pick his next assignment because of the great job he did and moved to Hawaii. He had the car shipped there and it was the only one like it on all the islands. He told me he even sold it for a little more than he paid for it.
@KeithKman I seen it in Wisconsin. Racking my brain to remember where exactly. It was 10 years ago. I didn't know it was a 1 off car. I thought they were made with the blue bird also.
This is the reason why I love this channel. To see and hear stories like this and be so envious of people that had the luxury of being able to have a car that they've always wanted and getting it back is it true American story.
When Joe found this car He contacted me first about restoration of it. I Myself live here in Kennesaw Ga, and also recondition firebirds, but what joe needed was more than i could help him with at the time, so i put him in touch with TA specialties....I am friends with Joe on facebook and currently stay in touch with him.....His story is wonderful and I am pleased it when his way....
How did it get delayed a year due to COVID and transport back in time to be finished and got it back in ‘18….. his exact words. I’ve heard of people time traveling but this is the first time I’ve heard of an inanimate object traveling with the human…🤦♂🤔🤔
@@hoopslaa5235it was an editing issue. I think 2018 is when he got it back from Alabama. He later says that the car was finished in july of 2024 ( 16:42 )
I had a 77 bandit in high school . A stolen / recovered Frankenstein salvage build - but it didn’t matter. I’ve had dozens of classic cars but 45 years later I still miss that one the most
This video is for anyone who's ever loved a car. Thankfully I never got rid of the ones I loved as a kid, even back then I sensed this is what'd be in front of me if I did. I've dragged my cars from one storage space to another over the years and what a headache to do it, but I still have them!
Bought my 70 GTO at 17 years old I'm now 54 and I still have it. It is my drag car and my son has taken the wheel from me and is keeping it in the family for sure when I'm gone. Love the story and glad you got it back!!!!!
@brentwoodbergmann8842 that is awesome!!!! My 70 is nothing but a race car so it only has one purpose. My 64 GTO is my go to for a Sunday afternoon cruise.
My mom got the 79 Trans Am after Smokey & The Bandit came out. The exact same model from the movie. I loved that car as a kid. I wish she had kept it because we always had our cars garaged and clean. It would be mint still no doubt. Good memories. Glad you got your car back.
Smokey & the Bandit is free to watch right now here on UA-cam. I have been rewatching them over the last couple days, so this video is great timing 😂👍🏻
What a great story! Well done on saving your old ride. I have also loved the '77 Trans Am ever since watching Smokey and the Bandit as a 12 year old. You definitely did justice to this '79 SE.
at 60 yrs old i felt this story. i still to this day have my first nice car. bought it in 1985. i couldn't imagine not having my car. not gonna lie... i teared up a bit watching him tell the story. so cool he has it back.
Congratulations! You got your old car back. I wish I could get my old 1978 Bandit back. Like yours, mine had the WS6 wheels, but had a warmed up SD 455 from a 73 Pontiac. I really miss that one.
I bought a 1975 forrmula 400 firebird in 1993.....and a 1975 455 4 speed Trans Am in 1999 I have hung on to both come hell or high water over the years just so I never have to experience that kind of regret from selling later.....every day I dont have to sell them is a good day😉👍
Wow what a story, bought tears to my eyes. The fact your got your teenage car back is epic. I had a custom 78 Chevelle which i'd love to get back but sadly she was written off years after a parted with her.
My father owns a warehouse in a complex down the street from the Pontiac Specialists shop and I’d always pass it on my way to work on my own project, help my dad out, etc. It didn’t click until Joe mentioned the fire, I remember passing by a few days after it happened and it was a tragic thing to see, half of the warehouse was melted off the frame. They managed to get the whole place put back together within the last year or two and I specifically remember that exact trans am being loaded onto a trailer. Seeing how many frames and body panels sit by the side of the warehouse, that are probably the only thing left from the cars that didn’t make it, it’s a miracle the ‘79 made it out.
What a neat story, and amazing that you were able to track it down and give it a new life, powered by vintage memories. I love Trans Am's, and even though I never had the privilage of owning one; you got me cryin. And extra special that your son was a part of your hunt and will continue on your Trans Am legacy. Thanks for sharing.
Hey now, we gatta have priorities in order here. He can keep up with that on his own. That’s why they gave em a birth certificate when guys sign for child support liability. 😂😂
As a father of two I can tell you that just happens sometimes. I know when my kids were born I was there for crying out loud, but trying to remember that date is next to impossible sometimes.
I love stories like this. Cars are so very much more than just machines. My dad bought a 1968 oldsmobile 442 W-30 in his late teens, he saw an ad in a magazine as a kid, for a black with red fender stripe 442 W-30 and decided he would have one. I turned 30 in February, and the car hasn't had an engine in it since before I was born. But he still has it. We've made progress here and there with it, small things. But I'm so proud of him for keeping it. It will be amazing eventually. It's great to be with him when he runs into an old friend, one of the first things they ask is if he still has "That 442".
What a great story and I'm glad you have it back!!! As a Pontiac guy, I would never drop a Chevy motor in it, you can do some amazing things with the whole Ponchos but hey if you're happy with it then that's all that matters. Kudos
I never cry at anything man but being a car and bike nut that actually got a tear in my eye , well done man your son is gonna inherit that beauty one day too ,what a story ,I'm choked !!🤩
I found the CVO Harley I sold for our first house down payment my late father got me when I was in the Marines to replace another I had to sell. Owner said he would sell and now ghosts me… glad u got yours back.
Truly awesome story and a super cool dude. I’m a big lover and a car guy too. This makes me so happy. Last April I got back my high school 1969 nova SS 354 speed that I sold to buy my house in Florida. I knew where the car was, but could never even think about getting it back until unfortunately my wife passed away and I said life is too short and I borrowed the money and bought the car. It’s in mint condition now and it will always stay in the family just like this guy.
Fantastic story being reunited with your original car. I have a similar story with my Gen 2 Dodge Ram. I am a truck guy and my first car was a Gen 2 Ram. Long story short is I was apart from it for ten years and constantly missed it. I even bought a Ram TRX with the Hellcat to fill the void but I still wanted my 97 Gen 2 Ram back. I got it back in 2022, in horrible shape, and was able to restore it back and it is now my daily driver again. I couldn't be happier. I teared up a couple of times listening to your story just thinking about how blessed I am to have my original first truck back with me. Great story and thanks for sharing it.
I loved this man's story! I wish I could find my 1st car. A 1970 Barracuda. Factory 318 car. When I got it, it had a mildly built 340. Headers, dual plane intake, 750 CFM Holley dvl pump carb and a Mallory dual point distributor were easily variable mods along with the loping idle of an aftermarket cam. The higher compression piston...not easily verifiable. She was fast, faster than my 16 year old foot could stay out of. I worked 2 summers on a framing crew for the money...$1200 in 1982. "If you race this thing I'm selling it" my dad warned. I really wish I'd had more self control back then because it was long at all and it was sold. I know the (also young) guy that bought it crashed it into his mother's Caddy in their driveway. I'd say mine has likely rusted to nothing or was saved and now would cost multiple 5 figures easy.
I owned a 1979 Camaro with t-tops and factory 4speed . I still have dreams about driving that car. I found once but couldn’t get it back so I know how much it means to get your dream car back. Congratulations
Love the story!!! Going through the process myself with one of my father’s old cars. Wondering who you used for a PI? Would love to hear back from you if you actually get this Joe.
This inspired me, I'm now on the hunt for my '85 Trans Am from high school as well. I found a VIN, but apparently it's 1 digit invalid and I can't get further info without it being fixed....maybe I need to hire a private investigator too lol
My first car was a 1979 Pontiac. I traded it in 1991 for a 1984 Firebird. About 3months later I see it outside a frat house in Kansas City Missouri and it didn't have a single straight body panel on it. And that is after I spent most of High School rebuilding it and learning collision repair in shop class to fix it and repaint it. That was 1992 and I STILL want that car back to do it right.
I talked to Rick many years ago. What a great conversation. Really cool to talk with someone who is keeping these cars on the road. Making dreams come true.
I get this. I am 54. I was 16 in 1986 and we used to ride around in my friend's Trans Am with the t-top off as early in March as we could take it because we were always jonesing for spring by then. That was very close to Rochester, NY as well. We'd be blasting down the road, drinking 40s, playing Crue or Metallica, looking for girls. It was that time in a young man's life where you are absolutely positive that there is going to be something awesome around every single corner you come to. At 54, I'd give just about anything to feel that again. Life has been good. But it was extra fun back then. I am so glad he found his car, and that feeling.
Best Vinwiki story I’ve heard. Grew up my family had 4 Trans Ams. Two 79’s, 81 and a 84. Got my first speeding ticket in the 84 when I was 16. Miss all of those cars.
I went to the Chevy dealer with my mom 1980 . Helped her pick out a new Camaro, gold with black interior. Ralley wheels. Gutless 307. That’s all they had. My dad had my cousin burn it cuz it was a piece of s$&@t!!
This is a car story. Not a BS rich guy who "found" a rare Lambo after somone called and wanted to sell it, but a guy who wanted his first car back. such a good story!
I am in tears dude. Great story. Im a Pontiac guy and i understand. Ive had my 67 Pontiac since 1999 and still own it but havent had time or dough to fic her up. Becoming a dad took all my moolah and time. But this story inspires me. Congrats
What a great story, That's a car guy. It's not about 0-60, or this feature or that feature, it's about how the car makes you feel. Nice to have the happy ending!
Great Feel Good Story - Congrats!!! Two cars from my past that I wish I could find: 1969 Olds 4-4-2 with 455CID and M22, and 1979 T/A with (factory) Olds 403 and TH400. I know the feeling: No VINs, and no leads...
I love this story. I paid attention to every word, every situation and every win and loss. My god I was emotional and can't even imagine your emotional journey. What a happy ending and that car's gotta have a soul. Amazing. Congratulations barley scratches the surface. Great story, Awesome beautiful car. Merry Christmas and for certain a very happy new year.
It is great he got the car back. I hear so many stories of people regretting they sold their car. The moral to the story, NEVER sell the car unless you really don't like it anymore. It's not a matter of if you'll regret it, it's a matter of when. even if money is tight or you don't have a lot of time to drive it. Store it somewhere safe so it is ready for you when you are. Don't put yourself in his situation.
What a great love story I wish I could get my GT. I picked it up the day I got my license at 18. My first car was a XB GT yellow and black with black interior, factory, sunroof and the rest.
He wasn't looking for a car. He was looking for his youth and a carefree past. A great time for a lot of people that you don't quite appreciate until it's gone. Aquiring the car doesn't give him those days back, but it does, however, help him feel like he captured a part of them in a time capsule frozen in time. When he looks at the car, he doesn't actually see a car. He sees a place in time that he loved very much. I don't know how much money he spent to restore it. But to him, it's obviously worth every penny when he looks at it and smiles and remembers so vividly those wonderful youthful days of a man with a V8, 4 on the floor and a carefree life full of promise and longing for adventure.
Dejavu all over i was 17 saw Smokey and the bandit fell in love the Trans Am I to pined for one however I only ever got 1982 Trans am your story touched me i could see the pride in your face I personally am thrilled you found your dream car God bless you
Anyone who grew up to those movies are in love with those cars . My buddy had a ‘81 Z28 350 4 speed car in high school in the early ‘90s . Man did we beat on that thing . All 180 hp got abused and used 😝👌. What I wouldn’t do for my own today
Great story 👏. Brings back great memories from the 70's. Those cars were scary fast and not very stable on the curves at high speeds because of the soft rear-ends. Funny how I ran into this post, because I bought the 1/18th scale die-cast of that exact car yesterday. Thanks for sharing
Excellent story. I completely understand how you feel. I left the Army in 2005, when I got home to Acworth, GA I went down to Carl Black Pontiac and bought a 2006 GTO, phantom black metallic, red leather interior, six speed manual, and 17” wheels. I love that car. I had to sell it in 2015 to make room for something bigger now that I have a family. Every time I see a Phantom black GTO my heart skips a beat as I wonder if it is my old GTO.
I really enjoy car stories like this. usually they don’t have the best outcome but you were blessed to get it back. I have my dad’s 77 ta he bought back in the 80s. I would drive it alot in the late 90s and early 2000s. In 2019 I took ownership of the car and she’s not going anywhere!
Great story and even better ending.. congratulations. I'm similar in years, born in 1970 and now you got me wondering what happened to my first love, a 1955½ Chevy stepside small windowed ½ ton, and my side-chick, a 1965 Buick Skylark two-door with the 310 Wildcat and a Powerglide
The rounded back glass is the toughest to get. Looks amazing. I miss my truck I bought in 2003. Drove it for 16 years. Has a kid and needed more space. My cousin bought the truck and still has it. I haven't sat in the driver seat in six years. I'm in North Carolina, bought it in Northern Virginia, he's in Florida. I love that truck. I understand this store and the sentimental value so much. I've seen my cousin a dozen times since he bought it. I just haven't been in Florida. I just need to feel that steering wheel, at least, one more time. It's a black Toyota pickup, just like in Back to the Future. I had a flux capacitor sticker on the back window. I need my black Toyota again. First new car/truck I ever bought. I know where it is. My kid is older now and doesn't need a car seat anymore. I kinda want my truck back. I knew every inch of it.
I had a ‘66 Mustang convertible in college. Drove it cross-country from Michigan to LA. Sold it in ‘89, and like 15 years later, a guy found my name in the glovebox and reached out to let me know it was safely in his garage in London!
Love that new owner - he's got a one-way ticket to Car Guy Heaven!
.
Kinda like that song riding with private malone
Great story
That is so cool!!🙌🏻
More stories like this please. No bullshìt fables, no ego or "look at me" going on here. Just a good story with a nice happy ending.
@@borismcfinnigan3430 agreed Boris! I had the ‘77 hurst hatch with the TA 400 (Pontiac block) and Muncie 4 speed. Was nice to see the effort he put into locating that car. It’s heartwarming that it didn’t get sitting there indefinitely! I once tried an hour at 100 mph the car handled it well. Then it took 1.5 hours to come back lol
Agree big but won't tell you my related story
@@mrp2561 🤔
@@TWilson-t8h what I mean is I have a lot of similar experiences as the original poster but I choose not to blab it out here and switch the focus on me that's all. I don't understand why people do that. It's just me.
@@mrp2561 I understand and appreciated your humility, but as you can see, people come here for exactly those kind of stories. I feel you would be adding something, as opposed to taking away. Not trying to change your mind, just adding my point of view. Take care, either way. ✌️👍
Love this story.
Most car guys will be in tears after watching it.
I hope you keep it for the rest of your days and pass it down to your son.
So true - I was !
I am in tears! That's a gorgeous vehicle. I don't blame him for wanting to stare at it awhile! His wife is probably so happy he can't bring it in the bedroom at night.
Yep. Ditto.
If I said my car was the love of my life, the love of my life would kill me. 😂
My takeaway from this is that you used to be able to afford a new-ish sports car with two summers worth of paychecks.
Two summers worth of work couldn’t even buy you a decent Honda civic
@@jv6miataYeah you couldn't even put a down payment on one these days but back then you could. I lived it........damn I'm old 😂😂😂
no that isn't true minimum wage in those years was 2.65 an hour a single guy that was about 90 bucks a week after taxes as i recall. trans ams were like 5-6 k as i recall
It was $2.35 when I was 16 and I am the same age as he is.
@@mfreund15448 i don't know what state your in. but in 1978 California minimum wage was 2.65 an hour. I was 15 years old. so i don't doubt what your saying for a second, just saying what i know to be fact in California in 1978. I think the next step was 3.10 in 1980
It is SOOO incredibly infuriating to me when people claim that the car means so much to them and they want to keep it yet they will leave it sitting outside for years to rot away.
That is typical hoarder mentality. They always have a plan for it but will never get off their duff.
Greedy?
That's how humans work we tend to be hoarders and in the person's mind they will get to it someday. Your not a car guy if you don't have that one project for me it's a 1931 model a sitting since 1958 every time I think about fixing it life happens and everything else breaks.
Some people don’t have a 3 car garage
Or refuse to sell it and let it sit outside and rot for 25 years...
I have a similar story. I sold my 1970 T/A Challenger in 1986 that I had wanted since I was in the 8th grade and I finally got it when I was 19 years old. Fast forward getting married everyone but me thought I needed to sell it to buy stuff for the house. So I finally broke down and sold her. I remember the day they loaded it on the rollback I laid my hand on the fender and told her I would find her again one day. How about 4 months ago, 38 years after I last saw her, I found her and worked out a deal to get her back. I unloaded her in the same place I loaded her 38 years ago. I won't ever sell her again. It still had the same keychain on the keys that I had put on it 38 years ago.
That's amazing!! What condition was she in when you got her back?
" it was my father's car
Well put it in the garage!"
That was my thought😅
That was a fantastic story, I had no intention on watching 19 minutes of this but I was captivated, I'm so glad this guy (and fellow Trumpeter) found and got back his car.....I'd watch these all day :)
I honestly think that’s the best video I’ve seen on here (and there’s been some good ones). I love car stories like that. So glad he found it.
I used to own a 1991 Trans Am 5.0. white with a black cloth interior n I made the mistake of letting my oldest daughter drive it when I got it back it had a blown motor 😮😢🤬🤬
@@allenkranawetter9482 rather rebuild a motor than do bodywork
www.youtube.com/@LostandFoundMuscleCars
Love this story!! While tiling a shower an hour from my house, I drove past my old 1997 eclipse gsx, which I sold 8 years ago. Loved that car, was my baby, and I'm in negotiations to buy it back. 100% understand he's feelings toward that car. Glad you got it back
Good luck with that GSX, I hope you get it back man.
@RB26DEST thank you much!! Think we have a deal in place, just need to pay the man and haul it back to it's home.
@@andrewfletcher5584 Wow, that's great! Go through with it, even if it's a lot of money. In the end, the joy will be worth it!
@@andrewfletcher5584 Best of luck, brother!
Good for you bro. My regret was selling my 1986 W123 Mercedes… I got it to 260,000 miles and the rust got too bad. The wife was on at me to sell it and I gave in… regret it to this day 8 years later
One of the best stories ever on the channel. A+++
Came here to say the same!
must be new here, not even close
Definitely in the top 3.
@@rori1891 What are the other two? I loved this story.
www.youtube.com/@LostandFoundMuscleCars
Outstanding! I know the feeling I sold my Chevelle unwillingly 20 years ago and made a last ditch effort to get it back with a hand written letter to the owner and it’s now back in my possession and never going away again
That’s fantastic! It’s cool to see our generation re-uniting with our high school cars and sharing them with our kids
Awesome it's back home! Was there any marks or dents, decals you put on it still there? I still own the 57' Chevy gasser I bought in 1986 for $1000 as a senior in high school. I've done some major sacrifices over the last 30+ years but somehow managed to keep it! I just recently started the process of getting it road worthy after sitting for decades. These tri fives are bringing such crazy money I might not be able to buy another. Rust bucket rolling shells are $10k+!!
@@rodmacd8357 the dude I sold it to just painted it and that was it. My speed declas every 18 year old slaps all over was still on the dash and windows the damn air freshener I put in was still hanging from the vent handle it’s an absolute trip driving it
My dad had a 1979 WS6 Trans-Am. What’s crazy is he loved blue. When he went to the dealer to order it he asked if he could order a black car with a blue bird and trim (black cars came with a brown bird and tan trim). The dealership called the factory and they agreed to do a black car with a blue bird with blue trim and interior stitching. My dad LOVED that car. He ended up having to sell it to afford his honeymoon. I wish we still had the car. It was one of the only factory Trans-Ams that was black with a blue bird on the hood. Car was a Southern California car and he sold it to someone locally that crashed their Trans-Am two weeks before. This was in 1984.
My dad had the 1977 Smokey and the Bandit rep. Dad was an Army recruiter at the time and became the #1 recruiter west of the Mississippi. He'd pick those guys up in that car bring 'em to the house and introduce them to my mom and my sister and I. He said to all of them at some point that the Army made all of what he had possible and they were sold. Unfortunately that car caused a wedge between my parents as he bought that car and traded in her beautiful conversion van for it without even letting her know and it upset he pretty bad. So they split the sheets, my sister and I went with her to live in the ghetto dad got to pick his next assignment because of the great job he did and moved to Hawaii. He had the car shipped there and it was the only one like it on all the islands. He told me he even sold it for a little more than he paid for it.
That’s awesome! It’s likely in someone’s garage in mint condition just as your dad ordered it. You never know especially with something that iconic.
I've seen it.
@@jtemmer4179 If you’re serious can you get in contact with me? Where is the vehicle now?
@KeithKman I seen it in Wisconsin. Racking my brain to remember where exactly. It was 10 years ago. I didn't know it was a 1 off car. I thought they were made with the blue bird also.
This is the reason why I love this channel. To see and hear stories like this and be so envious of people that had the luxury of being able to have a car that they've always wanted and getting it back is it true American story.
Car stories from the 80s just hit different what a time to be alive I bet.
Everyone back then talked about cars. I was a kid, but it was an amazing time.
Much better than today
@@TheSleepingonit You CLEARLY did not grow up in the 80's.
@@doubleaaaron Everyone STILL talks about cars....
When Joe found this car He contacted me first about restoration of it. I Myself live here in Kennesaw Ga, and also recondition firebirds, but what joe needed was more than i could help him with at the time, so i put him in touch with TA specialties....I am friends with Joe on facebook and currently stay in touch with him.....His story is wonderful and I am pleased it when his way....
How did it get delayed a year due to COVID and transport back in time to be finished and got it back in ‘18….. his exact words.
I’ve heard of people time traveling but this is the first time I’ve heard of an inanimate object traveling with the human…🤦♂🤔🤔
I heard covid and got it back in 2018 too @@hoopslaa5235
@@hoopslaa5235he was saying he acquired it from the previous owner in 18. I was confused for a minute too
@@hoopslaa5235it was an editing issue. I think 2018 is when he got it back from Alabama. He later says that the car was finished in july of 2024 ( 16:42 )
@@KTMownage Abe Lincoln said no one has a good enough memory to be a successful liar. And this applies here.
I had a 77 bandit in high school . A stolen / recovered Frankenstein salvage build - but it didn’t matter. I’ve had dozens of classic cars but 45 years later I still miss that one the most
Same here. My first car. 400 with B&M shift. I still miss it.
This video is for anyone who's ever loved a car. Thankfully I never got rid of the ones I loved as a kid, even back then I sensed this is what'd be in front of me if I did. I've dragged my cars from one storage space to another over the years and what a headache to do it, but I still have them!
Bought my 70 GTO at 17 years old I'm now 54 and I still have it. It is my drag car and my son has taken the wheel from me and is keeping it in the family for sure when I'm gone. Love the story and glad you got it back!!!!!
Bought my 69 The Judge GTO when I was 19, now almost 66 years and I’ve kept it all this time. I still love to take it out for a sweet cruise.
@brentwoodbergmann8842 that is awesome!!!! My 70 is nothing but a race car so it only has one purpose. My 64 GTO is my go to for a Sunday afternoon cruise.
@1:13 I think it's funny we have to explain what newspapers and magazines are, for those who don't know. 😂
I don't even want to think about how much he spent to bring this TA back to life. That being said, it's his money and I'm very glad that he's happy.
If he's happy and can afford it then it is MONEY WELL SPENT.
And 30 years of time, multiple states, kids, houses, life. Very impressive his kids gonna love that car
Money is just a number sitting in an account that you look at from time to time. I have a saying "I don't want money, just the things it buys".
My mom got the 79 Trans Am after Smokey & The Bandit came out. The exact same model from the movie. I loved that car as a kid. I wish she had kept it because we always had our cars garaged and clean. It would be mint still no doubt. Good memories. Glad you got your car back.
what a great great story brought me to tears. persistence paid off.
Smokey & the Bandit is free to watch right now here on UA-cam. I have been rewatching them over the last couple days, so this video is great timing 😂👍🏻
Is it? Or it is the algorithm? Maybe they're tracking your searches?
Love the story, Can see the joy in his face. Us petrolheads know thar feeling well. Congratulations mate. Enjoy.
This is the type of story we all live for as car people!
What a great story! Well done on saving your old ride. I have also loved the '77 Trans Am ever since watching Smokey and the Bandit as a 12 year old. You definitely did justice to this '79 SE.
at 60 yrs old i felt this story. i still to this day have my first nice car. bought it in 1985. i couldn't imagine not having my car. not gonna lie... i teared up a bit watching him tell the story. so cool he has it back.
Congratulations! You got your old car back. I wish I could get my old 1978 Bandit back.
Like yours, mine had the WS6 wheels, but had a warmed up SD 455 from a 73 Pontiac.
I really miss that one.
This dude is awesome. Congrats my man.
@@Kiawah1007 finally a normal comment, not another story trying to top the original video.
Such a cool story!!! Congrats on reconnecting with your TA! Burt is smiling down on you
I bought a 1975 forrmula 400 firebird in 1993.....and a 1975 455 4 speed Trans Am in 1999
I have hung on to both come hell or high water over the years just so I never have to experience that kind of regret from selling later.....every day I dont have to sell them is a good day😉👍
I never owned a car and never got a license but I sat through the whole thing. Great story.
I know we won't be getting any more Rabbit stories, but dammit this one comes real close to feeling like one. Glad you got the car back, man.
Heartwarming watching this, and so delighted the story had such a happy ending for you and the car. ❤
What a love story. Best Vinwiki ever.
Wow what a story, bought tears to my eyes. The fact your got your teenage car back is epic. I had a custom 78 Chevelle which i'd love to get back but sadly she was written off years after a parted with her.
My father owns a warehouse in a complex down the street from the Pontiac Specialists shop and I’d always pass it on my way to work on my own project, help my dad out, etc. It didn’t click until Joe mentioned the fire, I remember passing by a few days after it happened and it was a tragic thing to see, half of the warehouse was melted off the frame. They managed to get the whole place put back together within the last year or two and I specifically remember that exact trans am being loaded onto a trailer. Seeing how many frames and body panels sit by the side of the warehouse, that are probably the only thing left from the cars that didn’t make it, it’s a miracle the ‘79 made it out.
Im glad your friend got his car back and restored. Cool story
Best video on here in a long time. Very happy for him
What a neat story, and amazing that you were able to track it down and give it a new life, powered by vintage memories. I love Trans Am's, and even though I never had the privilage of owning one; you got me cryin. And extra special that your son was a part of your hunt and will continue on your Trans Am legacy. Thanks for sharing.
Bro remembers everything, but his sons age😂😂
Hey now, we gatta have priorities in order here. He can keep up with that on his own. That’s why they gave em a birth certificate when guys sign for child support liability. 😂😂
As a father of two I can tell you that just happens sometimes. I know when my kids were born I was there for crying out loud, but trying to remember that date is next to impossible sometimes.
His son’s name is Trans Am. Obviously.
8 or 9 or 10 😂
Lies are hard to remember
Love it. I still got my 1980 turbo T/A. She's coming back together slowly but surely.
I love stories like this. Cars are so very much more than just machines. My dad bought a 1968 oldsmobile 442 W-30 in his late teens, he saw an ad in a magazine as a kid, for a black with red fender stripe 442 W-30 and decided he would have one. I turned 30 in February, and the car hasn't had an engine in it since before I was born. But he still has it. We've made progress here and there with it, small things. But I'm so proud of him for keeping it. It will be amazing eventually. It's great to be with him when he runs into an old friend, one of the first things they ask is if he still has "That 442".
What a great story and I'm glad you have it back!!!
As a Pontiac guy, I would never drop a Chevy motor in it, you can do some amazing things with the whole Ponchos but hey if you're happy with it then that's all that matters. Kudos
These are my favorite stories. Glad he got his car back, he truly loves it. That's what being a car guy is all about.
I never cry at anything man but being a car and bike nut that actually got a tear in my eye , well done man your son is gonna inherit that beauty one day too ,what a story ,I'm choked !!🤩
I found the CVO Harley I sold for our first house down payment my late father got me when I was in the Marines to replace another I had to sell. Owner said he would sell and now ghosts me… glad u got yours back.
this is such a heartwarming story. Thanks for sharing!
Truly awesome story and a super cool dude. I’m a big lover and a car guy too. This makes me so happy.
Last April I got back my high school 1969 nova SS 354 speed that I sold to buy my house in Florida.
I knew where the car was, but could never even think about getting it back until unfortunately my wife passed away and I said life is too short and I borrowed the money and bought the car. It’s in mint condition now and it will always stay in the family just like this guy.
Damn.. I feel that all day. Good job and now your boy will be a car guy for life. No better feeling. Good Job bro.
What a brilliantly cool story teller Joe is. What a brilliant story.
Soo happy for you to hear such a heartwarming story. You well deserved it. Cheers from germany
Fantastic story being reunited with your original car. I have a similar story with my Gen 2 Dodge Ram. I am a truck guy and my first car was a Gen 2 Ram. Long story short is I was apart from it for ten years and constantly missed it. I even bought a Ram TRX with the Hellcat to fill the void but I still wanted my 97 Gen 2 Ram back. I got it back in 2022, in horrible shape, and was able to restore it back and it is now my daily driver again. I couldn't be happier. I teared up a couple of times listening to your story just thinking about how blessed I am to have my original first truck back with me. Great story and thanks for sharing it.
Great story, well told.
Awesome story! But the hero from this is the 8 year old kid, he did a long con and managed to get a car ready for his teenager years :D
I loved this man's story!
I wish I could find my 1st car. A 1970 Barracuda. Factory 318 car. When I got it, it had a mildly built 340. Headers, dual plane intake, 750 CFM Holley dvl pump carb and a Mallory dual point distributor were easily variable mods along with the loping idle of an aftermarket cam. The higher compression piston...not easily verifiable. She was fast, faster than my 16 year old foot could stay out of. I worked 2 summers on a framing crew for the money...$1200 in 1982.
"If you race this thing I'm selling it" my dad warned.
I really wish I'd had more self control back then because it was long at all and it was sold. I know the (also young) guy that bought it crashed it into his mother's Caddy in their driveway. I'd say mine has likely rusted to nothing or was saved and now would cost multiple 5 figures easy.
I owned a 1979 Camaro with t-tops and factory 4speed . I still have dreams about driving that car. I found once but couldn’t get it back so I know how much it means to get your dream car back. Congratulations
Love the story!!! Going through the process myself with one of my father’s old cars. Wondering who you used for a PI? Would love to hear back from you if you actually get this Joe.
This inspired me, I'm now on the hunt for my '85 Trans Am from high school as well. I found a VIN, but apparently it's 1 digit invalid and I can't get further info without it being fixed....maybe I need to hire a private investigator too lol
As a jazz musician and a car guy, I loved this story
Oh man I would have seen that buff mark and lost it as well. Congrats on getting it back!
My first car was a 1979 Pontiac. I traded it in 1991 for a 1984 Firebird. About 3months later I see it outside a frat house in Kansas City Missouri and it didn't have a single straight body panel on it. And that is after I spent most of High School rebuilding it and learning collision repair in shop class to fix it and repaint it.
That was 1992 and I STILL want that car back to do it right.
I talked to Rick many years ago. What a great conversation. Really cool to talk with someone who is keeping these cars on the road. Making dreams come true.
I get this. I am 54. I was 16 in 1986 and we used to ride around in my friend's Trans Am with the t-top off as early in March as we could take it because we were always jonesing for spring by then. That was very close to Rochester, NY as well. We'd be blasting down the road, drinking 40s, playing Crue or Metallica, looking for girls. It was that time in a young man's life where you are absolutely positive that there is going to be something awesome around every single corner you come to. At 54, I'd give just about anything to feel that again. Life has been good. But it was extra fun back then.
I am so glad he found his car, and that feeling.
Best Vinwiki story I’ve heard. Grew up my family had 4 Trans Ams. Two 79’s, 81 and a 84. Got my first speeding ticket in the 84 when I was 16. Miss all of those cars.
I went to the Chevy dealer with my mom 1980 . Helped her pick out a new Camaro, gold with black interior. Ralley wheels. Gutless 307. That’s all they had. My dad had my cousin burn it cuz it was a piece of s$&@t!!
UA-cam recommended this video...and I freaked out when you said Williamsville....that's where I live now
This is a car story. Not a BS rich guy who "found" a rare Lambo after somone called and wanted to sell it, but a guy who wanted his first car back. such a good story!
By far the best story told on this channel
MAN! Boy, I tell you. Talk about sentimental value. Incredible.
I am in tears dude. Great story. Im a Pontiac guy and i understand. Ive had my 67 Pontiac since 1999 and still own it but havent had time or dough to fic her up. Becoming a dad took all my moolah and time. But this story inspires me. Congrats
What a great story, That's a car guy. It's not about 0-60, or this feature or that feature, it's about how the car makes you feel. Nice to have the happy ending!
Great Feel Good Story - Congrats!!! Two cars from my past that I wish I could find: 1969 Olds 4-4-2 with 455CID and M22, and 1979 T/A with (factory) Olds 403 and TH400. I know the feeling: No VINs, and no leads...
dude must play one hell of a trumpet...
I love this story. I paid attention to every word, every situation and every win and loss. My god I was emotional and can't even imagine your emotional journey. What a happy ending and that car's gotta have a soul. Amazing. Congratulations barley scratches the surface. Great story, Awesome beautiful car. Merry Christmas and for certain a very happy new year.
It is great he got the car back. I hear so many stories of people regretting they sold their car. The moral to the story, NEVER sell the car unless you really don't like it anymore. It's not a matter of if you'll regret it, it's a matter of when. even if money is tight or you don't have a lot of time to drive it. Store it somewhere safe so it is ready for you when you are. Don't put yourself in his situation.
Enjoyed this story, I love the car and smokey and the bandit.
Big up
Awww man what a wonderful story!! Thank you for sharing and congrats on having her back home!
What a great love story I wish I could get my GT. I picked it up the day I got my license at 18. My first car was a XB GT yellow and black with black interior, factory, sunroof and the rest.
This is the best story I have seen on this channel by far.
He wasn't looking for a car. He was looking for his youth and a carefree past. A great time for a lot of people that you don't quite appreciate until it's gone. Aquiring the car doesn't give him those days back, but it does, however, help him feel like he captured a part of them in a time capsule frozen in time. When he looks at the car, he doesn't actually see a car. He sees a place in time that he loved very much. I don't know how much money he spent to restore it. But to him, it's obviously worth every penny when he looks at it and smiles and remembers so vividly those wonderful youthful days of a man with a V8, 4 on the floor and a carefree life full of promise and longing for adventure.
Love this story had me chocked up, I was thinking about selling my zl1, brand new off the lot, im keeping it and giving to my son after I’m gone
Only a true car guy can understand how strong the emotion is in this story. I’m so happy that car has returned home. ❤
Now that's a feel good story. good guy, living a good life. meeting and knowing good people.
Dejavu all over i was 17 saw Smokey and the bandit fell in love the Trans Am I to pined for one however I only ever got 1982 Trans am your story touched me i could see the pride in your face I personally am thrilled you found your dream car God bless you
If your lucky to own the car you love. Never ever let it go. No matter what. Great story
Anyone who grew up to those movies are in love with those cars . My buddy had a ‘81 Z28 350 4 speed car in high school in the early ‘90s . Man did we beat on that thing . All 180 hp got abused and used 😝👌. What I wouldn’t do for my own today
Wonderful story, beautiful car, something an enthusiast can relate to.
Amazing story . Thank you for sharing & I'm also Trans AM guy 1979 4 speed was the best year for that model .❤❤👍👍
Love this guy. Great story, thanks for sharing this with us Ed!
Great story 👏. Brings back great memories from the 70's. Those cars were scary fast and not very stable on the curves at high speeds because of the soft rear-ends. Funny how I ran into this post, because I bought the 1/18th scale die-cast of that exact car yesterday. Thanks for sharing
Its cool to get an old friend back!!
Excellent story. I completely understand how you feel. I left the Army in 2005, when I got home to Acworth, GA I went down to Carl Black Pontiac and bought a 2006 GTO, phantom black metallic, red leather interior, six speed manual, and 17” wheels. I love that car. I had to sell it in 2015 to make room for something bigger now that I have a family. Every time I see a Phantom black GTO my heart skips a beat as I wonder if it is my old GTO.
good morning still looking for my 58 chevy impala
I really enjoy car stories like this. usually they don’t have the best outcome but you were blessed to get it back. I have my dad’s 77 ta he bought back in the 80s. I would drive it alot in the late 90s and early 2000s. In 2019 I took ownership of the car and she’s not going anywhere!
A great example of what Pontiac used to mean. RIP
Great story and even better ending.. congratulations. I'm similar in years, born in 1970 and now you got me wondering what happened to my first love, a 1955½ Chevy stepside small windowed ½ ton, and my side-chick, a 1965 Buick Skylark two-door with the 310 Wildcat and a Powerglide
There is nothing better than a good storyteller talking about something that means a lot to them.
The rounded back glass is the toughest to get. Looks amazing. I miss my truck I bought in 2003. Drove it for 16 years. Has a kid and needed more space. My cousin bought the truck and still has it. I haven't sat in the driver seat in six years. I'm in North Carolina, bought it in Northern Virginia, he's in Florida. I love that truck. I understand this store and the sentimental value so much. I've seen my cousin a dozen times since he bought it. I just haven't been in Florida. I just need to feel that steering wheel, at least, one more time. It's a black Toyota pickup, just like in Back to the Future. I had a flux capacitor sticker on the back window. I need my black Toyota again. First new car/truck I ever bought. I know where it is. My kid is older now and doesn't need a car seat anymore. I kinda want my truck back. I knew every inch of it.
Hands down the best car story I have ever heard.