Richard “The King” Petty’s name echoes through NASCAR like thunder rolling over the plains. Over 35 seasons, he entered 1,184 races, conquered 200 of them, and claimed seven Cup Series championships.

The Pontiac Trans Am powered by the 6.6-liter V8 saw its final year of production in 1979. Killed off by Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standard, the rowdy Big Block T/A was to be no more.

The big news in 1981 for Pontiac Trans Am buyers was the introduction of the Daytona Pace Car edition. This new model sported limited-edition black graphics, a blacked-out roof, Recaro seats, and red ...

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