I don't know why but the 403 was used primarily in California(emissions) and Colorado(high altitude), so I've been told.
I do know that from the factory it was the lowest hp out of the three engine choices, maybe that's why it gets a bad rap?
I've never heard of it actually being problematic so it should be a good runner for you and I believe there are some pretty easy mods to get a lot of power out of those engines.
Because it's a 403 it will be harder to sell and you will get less because of it, it's just the way it is.
However, it's also pretty rare to see a ta in that original condition with the low miles and I love the color.
If it is to your liking maybe play the 403 card and get some $ off.
Good luck!
It wasn't the lowest horsepower choice it was actually the 2nd highest....here are the choices you had in '79.....its also fun to note that the 403 in 79 had just as much power as one version of the 400 did in 77 so getting an older car w a 400 didnt mean getting more HP...
•V8 301, "Y" Code - 140 hp
•V8 301, "W" Code - 150 hp
•V8 305, "H" Code - 133 hp
•V8 350, "L" Code - 160 hp
•V8 350, "X" Code - 155 hp
•V8 350, "R" Code - 160 hp
•V8 400, "X" Code - 220 hp
•V8 403, "K" Code - 185 hp
Again, it depends on wat ur loooking for...if its the car, then get the car u like and u can always put a different motor....you have crates, 455's, 403, 400, 350, SBC's, 301's, twin turbo ls1's.......go crazy..