1966 Pontiac GTO

Description

Not many cars get enthusiasts excited like the Pontiac GTO. This 1966 hardtop, for example, offers all the right parts: 389 Tri-Power engine, a 4-speed gearbox, and its original winning color combination. No modifications, just a really nice Goat that commands respect everywhere it goes.

Refinished in its original code N Burgundy color, this GTO looks the way Pontiac designers intended: sporty yet refined. The stacked headlights are a slam-dunk in terms of styling and among Pontiac faithful, they're highly-sought. Add in a subtle hood scoop and you get a car that has the goods but doesn't feel the need to advertise. The good news is that when the car was restored, they took their time and get the bodywork straight first, then laid down a few coats of that luscious Burgundy paint. The result is a straight, shiny GTO that shows quite well despite being driven and enjoyed a bit since it was completed. There's still plenty of chrome on the car (remember, this is the pre-Endura GTO) and things like the bumpers, rocker panel moldings, and grille surrounds are in excellent condition. It also features a lot of fresh weather-stripping so it seals up well and squeaks and rattles inside are minimized, making it feel tight and solid on the road.

Pontiac nailed the interior of the GTO in every way: comfortable, sporting, and refined, with just a hint of European sophistication. It is the interior that makes the GTO an adult's sports car, and the bucket seats, no-nonsense shifter, and wood-rimmed steering wheel all work towards that end. The seat covers are recent, the carpets were replaced when the car was restored, and the steering wheel positively glows from within the black interior. The round gauges are definitely meant to evoke the finest sports cars from the Continent, and include a speedometer, tach, and secondary gauges to monitor the engine at a glance. The 4-speed sticks out of the transmission tunnel, which is kind of a cool contrast to the otherwise highly evolved interior, and for entertainment, there's a newer AM/FM radio in the dash that fits rather well. GTO-logo floor mats have been recently fitted, and yes, we got the driver's side a little dirty, but no worries there. The trunk is outfitted with a reproduction mat and cover for the full-sized spare, giving it a very finished look.

The legendary 389 cubic inch Pontiac V8 makes big horsepower and torque, particularly thanks to the three two-barrel carbs living up top. With correct mini air cleaners, shiny valve covers, and Pontiac Turquoise paint on the block itself, it's quite nicely done under the hood. The only notable deviations from stock are a newer HEI ignition system that eliminates pesky points and a set of roller lifters and rocker arms inside that add efficiency without changing its external appearance. Stock cast iron exhaust manifolds and a newer 2.5-inch Flowmaster exhaust system give it a spectacular baritone sound and you'll note that while the body was off the frame, even the floors were painted to match, giving it a nicely finished look underneath. It's no longer razor-sharp, but it's really nice and shows you that the restoration was a high-quality one. Stock wheels look suitably industrial and carry fat 215/70/14 Michelin blackwall radials for a perfect look.

If you want a great-driving GTO that has the right look, then this is a fantastic choice. Complete with PHS documents, it's still as appealing a combination today as it was in 1966. Call today!