When it come to classic hero cars, the Pontiac Firebird from The Rockford Files is certainly among the most recognizable. Running between 1974 and 1980, The Rockford Files followed private investigator Jim Rockford, played by James Garner, as he fought crime and chased the bad guys, often executing perfect J-turns in the process. Now, Jay Leno is taking a turn behind the wheel.
This particular car is a genuine piece of television history, and was a meticulously restored to look like it rolled right out of the late ’70s. The owner, Pat McEntee, found it listed on eBay, and despite the poor condition, he quickly realized its significance as one of the original cars from the show. What followed was 15-year process, during which McEntee painstakingly restored the Pontiac Firebird while preserving its original features.
The restoration included the unique “Rockford Gold” paint, a GM factory color originally from a 1962 Cadillac that was custom-applied to the Pontiac Firebird for the show. The project also included replacing worn suspension components and fixing rusted panels. Interestingly, the vehicle required a few modifications for its role on-screen. For example, the production team added support equipment for microphones and cameras to assist in the shoot, as well as air shocks to support the added weight. The video also points out that the cars used for filming the cars were delivered as Formula Firebirds, but were stripped of certain elements, like the rear spoiler and “Formula” decals.
The episode also delves into James Garner’s legacy as an actor and car enthusiast. Garner was a skilled driver who often performed his own stunts, including the now-famous “Rockford,” a reverse 180 spin also known as a J-turn. Of course, the Pontiac Firebird was integral to these stunts, and its durable yet stylish design made it perfect for the show’s action-packed scenes.
The episode concludes with a test drive, during which the Firebird’s timeless nostalgic appeal are on full display. For fans of the show, this episode is a must-watch:
Comments
This was a terrific show. We have seen all of the episodes multiple times. Didn’t know that James Garner did his own car stunts.
I have heard, although I don’t know that it’s true, that GM tried to give Garner a new Firebird after the ‘79 revisions for use on the show. They had previously upgraded the show car from the original ‘74 style to a ‘77 design. In the later episodes, they wanted him running a car with the then-new front end with the grilles under the bumper and each headlight inset into its own cove. The story is that Garner personally preferred the front fascia of the earlier car, as exemplified by this ‘77 model and therefore refused a new car and continued to use the older design for the remainder of the show.
Yes it is true. He had a great dislike for the 79 and later styling.
They kept and rebuilt the 78 models.
He really did drive Rocky’s truck home. Vic Hicky made the mods and was a hood friend of Jim from his Baja racing.
Remember poor ole Rocky worry about putting his GMC up as collateral to bail Jim out of jail.
Jay needs to do “Rockford Turn”!
James Garner was a heckuva guy. Army vet that saw action. An actor ahead of his time.
Probably one of my favorite shows, I loved watching him drive in the show because you knew it was him and not some stunt driver. Hubcaps flying off the bad guys car, tires screeching, outstanding! Always waited for the Rockford J turn which many Police Agencies still teach and call it that. Absolutely ICONIC!
Always tuned in on Friday nights. Liked Rock’s truck, too. Neighbor had a Firebird in the stock color that was similar. I had a Camaro same time period. So long ago.
Great show always loved that car. U could always spot that gold firebird. I still watch the reruns all the time even know I’ve seen them all.
As a young boy before being even old enough to drive, watching the Rockford files started my affection for GM F body cars…thru life I have had several and still own some today. Great GM marketing for the time…..I am positive that the Rockford files sold many firebirds in that era.
Maurice Minnifield’s 1960 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz [6467E] on the tv show Northern Exposure had a very similar gold color (maybe CHAMPAGNE METALLIC) to Rockford vehicle.
I owned a 1979 firebird, plain car, red, but just sporty enough to be cool behind the wheel ! I let a friend drive it and he totalled it. The Rockford files was such a simple show, every show good story told without any cussing or beeping out cuss words. Today’s shows cannot compare.
There were more than 1 Rockford “Esprit” in that gold color made only for the show…
Hey Jay,
That car is a base model Firebird not a Formula!