Matching-numbers 389, 4-speed. Frame-off restoration 1400 miles ago. Original color combination of Burgundy over Parchment, just beautiful to look at. Runs and drives great, lots of fun, ready to rock!
Code N Burgundy paint with no vinyl roof was how this one was ordered when it was new, and it's such a good look there really wasn't much reason to change it when the car was restored. It appears to be wearing all its original sheetmetal, as we can find no evidence of panel replacement (easy on GTOs since full quarters aren't available). There's a hint of metallic in the finish, which gives it a depth and brilliance that you might not notice until it's out in the sunlight. Panel gaps are quite good and the single white pinstripe that runs from nose to tail emphasizes the luscious curve of the quarter panel, one of the '66-67 models' most distinguishing features. Nice chrome and stainless trim accentuates the lovely burgundy finish, and with that bright surround on the rear end, it's a good thing the trunk lid fits as well as it does. Proper GTO emblems were installed in their correct locations and the stacked headlights look fantastic in their chrome housings.
Pontiac called their off-white vinyl upholstery "Parchment" and it's absolutely the right choice in this Burgundy hardtop. The shimmering upholstery makes the driver's compartment feel bright and airy without being overwhelming. Part of that is due to the black carpets and dash, and part of it due to the wood steering wheel and instrument panel, which were intended to make the GTO feel upscale inside. You'll find a full array of factory gauges, including an optional factory tach, and they're all fully operational and in good original condition. It also has a Pontiac-labeled AM radio, which might be due for an upgrade if you're not a purist and like to drive, and yes, the console houses a Hurst shifter with cue ball knob for the 4-speed manual gearbox. The passenger gets a grab handle, which may or may not be necessary depending on how you drive your new Goat, but we appreciate the sentiment. The back seat looks almost completely unused and the trunk is finished in correct spatter paint. Add a reproduction mat and you'll have a car that's ready for anything.
The engine is the original WT-coded 389 cubic inch V8 with a 4-barrel carburetor and making 335 horsepower. It was rebuilt during the restoration and runs superbly today, starting with a turn of the key and a few taps on the throttle and idling well even when it's cold. It wears correct Pontiac Turquoise metallic engine paint, which has a little discoloration in the usual spots where the exhaust crossover is located but otherwise looks quite fresh. The louvered air cleaner is correct, the chrome air cleaners were part of the GTO package (because they knew GTO owners would spend some time showing off the hardware), and the satin black engine bay makes it really stand out. A fresh alternator, a heavy-duty radiator, and a recent master cylinder all ensure this car is ready to drive.
It's backed by its original 4-speed Muncie transmission and 10-bolt rear end (yes, the thumping GTO only got a 10-bolt from the factory). It is, however, equipped with 3.91 gears, so it's punchy as hell on the street and you'll find yourself always itching for a fight. This car feels very fast! The chassis is beautifully restored and you can see that the floors, rockers, and frame are in excellent condition with no issues at all. Rebuilt brakes, new suspension components, and a rumbling Flowmaster exhaust system all make it a lot of fun to drive. It's also tight, smooth, and comfortable, suggesting this is a car that has led a pretty easy life and wasn't abused or raced when it was new. 15-inch Cragar mags are a traditional look that works extremely well with the low-key burgundy paint and they carry right-sized 225/70/15 white-letter radials.
GTOs remain sentimental favorites and this one combines a high-quality restoration with a no-nonsense approach that we find extremely appealing. If you want a great vintage muscle car with no needs and low maintenance requirements, not to mention a fantastic pedigree, look no further. This GTO is what you need. Call today!
For more details and photos, please visit www.HarwoodMotors.com
