Vehicle Description
If you're looking for GTO looks on a budget, this 1971 Pontiac Le
Mans Sport convertible definitely delivers. The body shell is, of
course, the same, and it still packs a torquey 350 that delivers a
muscle car experience just like a GTO, all without breaking a
sweat. Looks good, goes fast, costs less, how can you lose?
The paint job was done not long ago, and respraying this droptop in
code 26 Lucerne Blue was an obvious choice because this hue looks
great on a big convertible from the era. Combined with the darker
blue interior and white top, it looks just right on the sleek Le
Mans bodywork. It isn't perfect and up close you can see a few
minor flaws, but for the money, you're going to be pleased with the
look. Fit and finish are quite good with doors that close as well
as any other GM car of the period, indicative of a solid car that
hasn't been bent or rusty. The Le Mans was a lot more GTO than most
would believe, and the classic front end works as well here as it
does on its more expensive big brother, as does the awesome hood
tachometer and big rear spolier. There's not a lot of trim on the
Lemans, but details like the '350' emblems on the rocker panels,
the big chrome bumpers, and the factory emblems are all in solid
original shape. And it really is nice to see that it hasn't been
faked into a GTO, because the Le Mans Sport has a clean, chiseled
look that works extremely well. This is still a great-looking
car.
Dressed to play, the code 261 Dark Blue bucket seat interior is
just as functional and inviting as any in a GTO. The seat covers
are in great shape and it's quite possible that things like those
seat covers, the door panels, and even the dash pad are well-kept
originals, if not correct OEM replacements, with the back seat
looking almost like it's never been sat in. There are also plush,
fresh carpets on the floor. The Lemans offers only basic
instrumentation from the factory, but the triple gauge pod layout
still looks sporty and the woodgrained appliques look warm and
inviting, and it also adorns the middle console and neat set of
auxiliary units attached underneath the dash. The steering wheel is
a factory spec three-spoke PMD unit with a grippy rim, and the
center console houses a familiar Pontiac shifter that manages the
TH350 3-speed automatic transmission underneath. Options include
power windows, an AM/FM radio (although it's the original unit and
not currently working), an R134a A/C system, and a white power
convertible top that works great. Out back, the spacious trunk is
very solid and features a rubber mat and spare tire.
The engine is a great-running, numbers-matching Pontiac 350 that
seems to ignore the declining horsepower in the early 1970s because
it feels plenty stout. It's pretty stock, including a 2-barrel
carburetor under the original snorkeled air cleaner, but don't let
that fool you into think it's not fun to drive. It's nicely
detailed with corporate turquoise engine enamel, matching valve
covers, and factory exhaust manifolds. There's a newer power brake
system and the original A/C compressor has been converted to handle
R134a refrigerant, but that's about it for modifications, with
signs of careful maintenance throughout as well. It starts quickly
and easily, idles with a pleasing V8 burble, and moves easily with
a solid whack of low-end torque. It's backed by a TH350 3-speed
automatic transmission and a 10-bolt rear end out back, so the
powertrain is certainly durable enough to have fun without worries.
A newer dual exhaust system with Flowmaster mufflers gives it a
mellow soundtrack, and the Pontiac Rally II wheels are just the
right touch. Fat 235/70/15 BFGoodrich white-letter radials fill the
fenders and really nail the stance.
If you don't care about pedigrees and investments and just want to
get to the business of having fun, this very nicely preserved Le
Mans is your car. Call today!