The Pontiac Firebird we see here is none other than the very vehicle used as the “Pace Car” for the race. In fact, it was the first car to cross the finish line that year, ahead of Emerson’s Penske, as its intervention became necessary following the collision between him and Al Unser Jr.
The Trans Am 20th Anniversary Edition has an interesting history linked to another iconic General Motors model, the Buick Regal T-Type. Featuring a turbocharged 3.8-litre V6, it was created to celebrate the Trans Am’s anniversary and replace the V8 engine. With 250 bhp and a four-speed automatic transmission, it stood out for its performance, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in around five seconds and exceeding 246 km/h. GM limited production to 5,500 units, all white with a cream interior, many featuring a “T-top” roof. To highlight its role as the Indianapolis 500 Pace Car, owners received a decal reading “Official Pace Car – Indianapolis 500”. The example on display is unique for lacking air conditioning, which was standard on this model.
Traditionally, the Pace Car for the opening lap of the Indy 500 is driven by a former driver or a notable celebrity (such as Jay Leno, Morgan Freeman, Colin Powell, Lance Armstrong, Bob Lutz, among others). In 1989, that honor fell to the legendary American racer Bobby Unser, though during race emergencies, the Pace Car was driven by Don Bailey, who regularly fulfilled this role throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Continuing a tradition dating back to 1936, the winner was awarded the race’s Pace Car as a prize — and Emerson has never parted with his Trans Am 20th Anniversary.