1971 Pontiac GTO Convertible

Description

Real GTO? Check. Top goes down? Check. A great color combination? Check. If you want a GTO convertible, this classic droptop delivers in a big way, fully restored, completely dialed in, and ready to be enjoyed without a second thought. With a thundering 445 HO big-block V8 under the hood, a smooth-shifting overdrive automatic transmission handling the shifts, and a host of preferred options, it's not just a looker. And quite honestly, life is pretty darned good from behind the wheel of a vintage GTO convertible that's as fully loaded as this. Add in a stack of build receipts, PHS documentation, an original owner's manual, and a factory build sheet, and you've got a pedigreed GOAT that's ready to hit the road, dressed to impress.

Bright White is a great contrast to all the red, orange, and yellow GTOs running around, so it's no wonder that when this GTO was restored in the early 2000s, it was the color selected to adorn its sexy flanks. White is a definite upgrade over the Castillian Bronze this droptop was born with, drawing the eye to the gorgeous, sculpted design of the late-2nd generation GTOs that millions have loved for decades. From the Endura front bumper surrounding the twin Pontiac grilles to the twin scoops and tachometer on the functional fiberglass Ram Air hood to the ultra-straight flanks, it's stylish and timeless. It was painted in the early 2000s, long enough that it has some signs of use and minor imperfections here and there, but it sure cleans up nicely as a dialed-in, top-end driver-quality Poncho. Quarters, doors, fenders, and the original twin-snorkel hood are in good condition, evident from the sharp crease that runs down the flanks, and the spoiler out back lets everyone know that this isn't some Sunday-cruising grocery-getter. The deck lid fits flush, the gaps around the hood and doors are fairly even, and even the nose fits reasonably well, and that particular part is notorious for being out-of-shape. Judge-style decals at the flanks further enhance the car's muscular crouch, simple GTO badges are just suitable for the "look at me" image Pontiac was so wonderfully achieved, and the hood snorkels and 'Ram Air' and '455 HO 'decals send a pretty clear message about this convertible's performance. Chrome was still a bit in fashion in 1971, with a brightly plated rear bumper, bright rocker moldings, and shiny wheel well trim, all of which is in very good condition overall. And with a gorgeous white canvas top that matches the paint and interior, this GOAT looks like a million bucks.

The interior is also white, which is a somewhat rare choice, even on cars with White paint. White-on-white is a common color combination these days, but you didn't see it that often in the '60s and '70s. That's a good thing, though. It makes this GTO look timeless and super-clean like it's bringing sunshine everywhere. The seats, door panels, and carpets are believed to be original equipment and remain in solid shape, considering they're approaching they're past their 50th birthday. All the soft white stuff could use a deep cleaning, as you might expect for white upholstery of this age, but a thorough, deep scrub could easily bring back the good old days. Contrasting black carpets, center console, dash, and original-spec steering wheel help break up the monotony, and it's all in great shape as it is now. Pontiac used a lot of faux wood in the upmarket GTO, but it works pretty well with the appliques on the dash and center console looking like the same stuff, and the machine-turned gold accents ahead of the driver add wonderful spark inside. A factory shifter manages the ultra-desirable 4-speed automatic transmission, which gives this Goat a genuine attitude out on the roads. The hood-mounted tachometer might be the coolest piece to come out of the muscle car era. Options include cold factory A/C, tilt wheel, seatbelts, power convertible top, and an AM/FM/8-track stereo that's remarkably still in place and working as it should. The only notable modifications are the trio of SunPro auxiliary gauges under the dash, and the shift light mounted next to them. Still, with a high-powered 455 HO under the hood, they're certainly welcomed. The trunk was coated with spatter paint and comes protected with a plaid mat, and even with the full spare, CD changer, and fire extinguisher (a good idea for any classic), there's still plenty of room.

The original 400 V8 that was originally in this Pontiac did not have enough displacement for a previous owner, so it was adeptly swapped out in favor of a more powerful, period-correct big block 455 HO V8 – built by the pros at Dennis Performance and dressed to convince everyone it's been in there all along. Correct Pontiac Turquoise paint, chrome valve covers, and a matching chrome air cleaner are all details Pontiac fans expect. The motor breathes efficiently thanks to a Winters intake, a giant 4-barrel carb, and a set of Hooker long-tube headers. Power steering and front disc brakes are included, and the factory A/C system is neatly installed, so it's not in the way. The chassis is excellent and protected with undercoating, and although it's in good order, it's not ready to be shown off with mirrors. The upgraded X-pipe dual exhaust with Magnaflow mufflers is appropriate for a high-performance Pontiac, the 200R4 4-speed automatic transmission handles the power from the 455 more than adequately, and it spins highway-friendly gears inside the 10-bolt rear-end. PMD wheels are fitted for extra flash and carry 255/60/15 BFGoodrich radials at all four corners to finish the look.

With all the talk of investment-grade cars, it's refreshing to see a clean, original GTO with a solid pedigree ready to drive, not just collect dust in someone's portfolio. Call today!