Gateway Classic Cars is proud to present this aggressively styled
and extensively upgraded 1973 Pontiac Ventura, a purpose-built
street machine that combines classic Pontiac styling with a serious
list of performance upgrades. Finished in a stunning Plum Crazy
Purple, this Ventura looks every bit as wild as it performs. Under
the hood is a built 400ci Pontiac V8 backed by a TH350 automatic
transmission, making this lightweight Pontiac a seriously fun
combination for cruising, car shows, and spirited driving.
The exterior immediately grabs your attention with its bold Plum
Crazy Purple finish and unmistakable Ventura styling. The compact
proportions, aggressive front fascia, and muscular stance give this
Pontiac plenty of attitude, while the polished wheels and
performance tires complete the look. It's a car that stands out
from the crowd without needing an explanation.
Under the hood is where this Ventura really separates itself. The
400ci Pontiac V8 has been upgraded with ported 1970 Ram Air III
heads featuring the desirable #13 castings, topped with Harland
Sharp roller rockers. An Edelbrock Performer camshaft works with a
Professional Products intake manifold and a 600 CFM
Performer/Holley carburetor to feed the Pontiac V8.
Fuel delivery is handled by a Holley high-volume mechanical fuel
pump, while a high-volume water pump and new aluminum 3-core
radiator help keep the combination running cool. Spent exhaust
gases exit through Hooker headers, giving the Ventura the
aggressive sound you'd expect from a performance-oriented Pontiac
V8.
Power is sent through a TH350 3-speed automatic transmission
equipped with a 2,800 RPM stall converter. The combination of the
lightweight Ventura body and performance-oriented drivetrain
creates an entertaining street package with plenty of low-end
torque and a responsive feel when you get into the throttle.
The chassis has also received attention to help put that power to
the pavement. Frame extenders and traction bars have been added for
additional support and traction, while new tubular A-arms provide a
substantial upgrade to the front suspension. The result is a
Ventura that's been built with more than just straight-line
performance in mind.
Braking and maintenance items have also been addressed, including a
new master cylinder, new wheel cylinders, and new brake lines. The
car currently utilizes drum brakes, and a disc brake setup can be
included with the vehicle for those looking to take the braking
system to the next level.
Inside, the black interior keeps things clean and purposeful while
complementing the dramatic purple exterior. A B&M sequential
shifter adds a performance-oriented touch to the cockpit, while a
new headliner and new carpet freshen up the interior and make it
more enjoyable to spend time behind the wheel.
This Ventura is a great example of the kind of classic street
machine that enthusiasts love: relatively compact, big V8,
automatic transmission, aggressive cam, upgraded cylinder heads,
headers, suspension upgrades, and a color that makes it impossible
to overlook. It's not trying to be subtle-and that's exactly the
point.
Whether you're looking for a Pontiac-powered street cruiser, a
unique muscle car for the local cruise night, or a fun project
that's already received an extensive list of upgrades, this 1973
Pontiac Ventura deserves a serious look. With its built 400ci V8,
Ram Air III heads, TH350, performance suspension components, and
unmistakable Plum Crazy Purple finish, this Ventura has the
hardware and attitude to stand out wherever it goes.
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