Monterey & Big Sur: 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400 Rental

Imagine rolling along the stunning California coast in a classic muscle car that turns heads at every turn. That’s exactly what this 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400 rental experience offers. If you’ve ever dreamed of driving a vintage American beauty while soaking in breathtaking views, this might just be the adventure you’re after.

We love the chance to really feel the power of a V8 engine and to cruise through iconic destinations like Monterey, Carmel, and Big Sur with the top down. Plus, the fact that it’s a private group experience gives you a chance to enjoy the day at your own pace without the hustle of large tours.

That said, it’s not a perfect fit for everyone. If you’re looking for a full-day, guided tour with historical commentary, this is more of a self-driven scenic drive. It’s ideal for those who want a taste of classic California cool, are comfortable with driving a manual or automatic, and are excited to capture photos of this vintage beauty against some of the most scenic coastlines in the world.

If you enjoy vintage cars, scenic drives, and making the most of a day on the coast, this experience could be just the ticket. It balances adventure, style, and flexibility — all at a reasonable price.

Key Points

• Vintage California Cool: Drive a classic 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400, complete with original styling and power.
• Scenic Route: Explore Monterey, 17-Mile Drive, Carmel, and Big Sur with some of the most photogenic coastlines in California.
• Flexible & Private: The experience is tailored to a private group, giving you control over your day.
• Cost & Convenience: Priced at $499 for up to 4 people, including fuel and insurance, making it good value for a unique day.
• Photo Opportunities: Perfect for capturing memorable pictures in a vintage car against stunning backdrops.
• Drive Experience: Features a V8 engine and automatic transmission, enjoyable even if you’re not a car expert.

If you’re craving a different way to see California’s coast, this car rental offers a blend of nostalgia and scenery. The 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400 isn’t just a pretty face—it’s a powerful machine, known for its 400ci V8 engine and smooth automatic transmission. We loved the rumble of the engine and the feeling of driving something with real character—something you don’t get from modern SUVs or sedans.

The rental includes a 3-hour window, which may sound short, but it’s enough time to enjoy a well-curated route without feeling rushed. It’s perfect if you want a taste of the coast with a side of vintage American muscle. Plus, with the car being professionally maintained and roadside assistance included, you can relax and focus on the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting in Monterey

Your adventure begins in Monterey, a historic seaside town packed with charm. Cruising through its streets, you’ll pass familiar sights like Cannery Row and Lovers Point. The real highlight here is the chance to enjoy Monterey’s vintage appeal while behind the wheel of this iconic car. The town is a great starting point to set the mood for a memorable day.

The Legendary 17-Mile Drive

From Monterey, the route continues along the world-famous 17-Mile Drive. This stretch of road is considered one of the most scenic in California, winding through cypress-lined hills, rocky coastlines, and past the Pebble Beach golf course. With the top down, you’ll feel the ocean breeze and hear the engine’s purr—an experience many reviews highlight as a highlight.

Travelers have said, “The drive was more fun than I expected, and the scenery really does live up to the hype.” The route offers plenty of photo stops, and with your own car, you can linger at viewpoints or keep moving at your own pace.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Next up is Carmel, a charming seaside village known for its art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy atmosphere. Driving a vintage car here feels like stepping into a different era. We appreciated how easy it was to park and explore this storybook town, knowing your classic car turned heads everywhere.

Heading South to Big Sur

The real showstopper is the drive down Highway 1 toward Big Sur. This rugged coastline with towering cliffs and crashing waves makes it one of the most scenic drives in the world. The Bixby Bridge is a must-see photo op, and many visitors comment on how special it was to see it from the driver’s seat of a classic car.

Stop for lunch in Big Sur itself—many choose dining spots with views of the ocean or nestled among redwoods. The flexibility of your private rental means you can take your time, enjoy the scenery, and make the experience your own.

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The Practical Side

The rental fee of $499 covers the vehicle, fuel, insurance, and a driving map of the peninsula, valued considering the vintage car and scenic route. It’s a lot more affordable than many guided tours and offers a personalized experience. However, keep in mind that parking fees and tolls are not included, so budget for those separately.

Also, the car must be returned with a full tank of gas, and late returns could incur extra charges, so plan your timing accordingly.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

This tour is more than just a drive; it’s about relishing the freedom to explore California’s coast in a vintage muscle car. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or someone wanting to do something a little different, it’s a memorable way to see the sights.

The experience has been praised for its reliable, well-maintained fleet and the chance to capture stunning photos with the car and scenic backgrounds. It’s suited to couples, small groups, or friends traveling together—up to four people—who enjoy a bit of nostalgia and adventure.

While it’s a great standalone activity, it’s not a guided tour with commentary—so if you’re after detailed historical insights or a full-day guided experience, this might not be the perfect fit. But if your goal is to create fun memories while soaking in the coastal beauty, this could be just right.

This experience suits car lovers, photographers, and anyone wanting to add a dash of classic Americana to their California trip. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate a bit of nostalgia and want to feel the thrill of driving a muscle car along one of the world’s most stunning coastlines.

If you’re celebrating a special occasion like an anniversary or just want to treat yourself to a unique day, it’s a memorable way to do so. It’s also a fantastic option if you’re traveling with friends or a partner and want to share the fun in a private setting.

Final note:

This isn’t about rushing through a list of sights but about savoring the drive, the scenery, and the vibe of California’s legendary coast in a vintage car that turns heads—and sparks conversations.

Can I drive the car if I don’t have a manual license?
Yes, the car has an automatic transmission, so you just need a valid driver’s license to rent and drive.

Is insurance included?
Yes, the rental includes insurance for one driver, giving peace of mind during your drive.

Are there any additional costs?
You might need to cover parking fees and tolls separately, as these are not included in the rental price.

How long is the rental period?
The rental is for 3 hours, which is typically enough to enjoy key sights on the route without feeling rushed.

Can I take the car on any route I want?
While you’re free to explore within your route, the main scenic tour focuses on Monterey, the 17-Mile Drive, Carmel, and Big Sur.

Is roadside assistance provided?
Yes, the fleet is professionally maintained, and roadside assistance is included, offering reassurance in case of any issues.

Can I rent the car for a special occasion?
Certainly, the vintage vibe makes it ideal for celebrations or memorable days, though the experience is primarily self-driven.

Is the experience suitable for families or children?
The information doesn’t specify, but given the car’s capacity for four and the scenic nature, it’s more suited for small groups or couples rather than families with young kids.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

How do I reserve?
You can book online through the provider’s platform, and you’ll have the option to reserve now and pay later, keeping your plans flexible.

Hopefully, this gives you a clear picture of what to expect from the Monterey & Big Sur: 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400 Rental experience. Whether you’re a vintage car enthusiast or simply looking for a unique way to see California, it offers a fun, stylish, and memorable day on the coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: