[pbs911]

If you do a search this topic has been covered extensivly, including sites to the current statutes. Do a seach under "smog" or "emissions".

If my memory serves me corectly, beginning in 2003 a 30 year rolling exemption will begin. This means in 2003 the 1974 models will be exempt, 2004 the 1975s, etc. So you are looking at about 2008 for the 78. There has been some opposition to the statute so there is no no guarantee it will still be in effect in 2008.

California is also putting into effect the roadside detectors which will identify polluters as they drive on the street. Apparently, no car is exempt from being a polluter via the roadside detector. If caught, the state sends you a letter to take your car in for testing. If you don't you are fined.