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Limited Edition TA (Special Edition)
Only 2057 Trans Am's produced in 1976 came equipped with a limited edition package that marked Pontiac's 50th Anniversary, 1628 were 400ci automatics of which 533 had t-tops. Only 429 came with the 455 4-speed of which 110 had t-tops. The '76 TA was the first TA to have t-tops which were installed after market. To the untrained eye, one of these 50th Anniversary edition TAs would seem to be just another black/gold TA. The main thing that identifies this limited edition is the 50th anniversary decal located below the "Trans Am" decal found on each front fender just behind the front wheels. Other things to look at are the special gold interior and exterior appointments that make up the Limited Edition Package. Here is a complete list of features.
(You can also check out the Sales Information Bulletin from Pontiac which details the features of the SE)
1. Gold Machined Instrument Panel. (otherwise they are silver) |
 50th Anniversary emblem appears on '76 TAs with the LE package |
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Horn button Shifter handle (automatics) Wheel center cap inserts (1977-1981): (In 1976 center caps had a red Pontiac arrow) Window crank inserts (in the door panel) for power window optioned S/E Trans Ams |
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4. Front bumper crests: The 1976 L/E Trans Am had a
special gold bird for the front bumper.
5. Pinstriping and "gothic" lettering on the front fenders and rear spoiler.
6. Gold accents in the front grille.
7. 50th Pontiac Anniversary emblem on the front fenders
See the Y82 Zone Technical Bulletin 76-ZT-18 Section 2 released on 3/26/76 for part numbers.
Since all of the features listed here can be duplicated during a restoration, you may need to verify that your car by checking the VIN# (found on the cowl plate under the hood near the hinge on the driver's side) or by submitting your VIN# to Pontiac Historic Services for verification. They charge $35 to research your car and it is well worth the cost. They will send you a copy of your car's original sticker indicating whether or not the LE package is on the car. You will also receive a packet of information which includes a sales photo of the car, production numbers, a typical order form which would have been used to select options in the car by the buyer, car specifications and new car literature.
Note: For some cars, the original sticker may indicate "Special Edition Package" instead of "Limited Edition Package" but they are the same. The price tag was $435
Credits: Thanks to the Bandit Trans Am Club, Eric Cox of Maryland, Tommy Purser of Mississippi and Year One for their help in providing the information on this page
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