1999 Pontiac GTO Concept

Launched at the 1999 Detroit Motorshow (NAIAS) the GTO Concept pays homage to one of the greatest muscle cars; the Pontiac GTO. Careful examination of its lines suggests connections to past GTOs and current Pontiac styling cues. The side profile hints at the famous 'Coke bottle' look introduced on '66/'67 GTOs and refined with '68/'69 models. The shape of the rear quarter windows is reminiscent of the '68/'69 GTOs. A hood-mounted tachometer pod first appeared in 1967. Split grilles were a GTO mainstay, as well as a signature shape on many other Pontiacs. The two hood scoops are a Firebird/Trans Am cue and a logical extension of the '71/'72 GTO twin hood scoops. The tapered, taillight/rear decklid treatment distinguished the 1966 GTO. Honeycomb wheels were optional on '71 and '72 GTOs, plus they were a long-time Firebird favorite. Large driving lights, bold body ribs, and Wide Track stance are seen on many 1999 Pontiacs like the Grand Prix and Grand Am.

Even though Concept GTO has expanded on traditional Pontiac characteristics, it is very much a new car, one that would be at home in the 21st century. Large, 19-inch diameter front wheels, 20-inch rear wheels, and ultra-low profile, 40-series tires are a world apart from the 14-inch bias ply ÚS Royal red line tires included in the original GTO option package. The low stance, radically raked windshield, long wheelbase in relation to the body overhang, and almost vertical rear panel are futuristic touches. The use of massive disc brake rotors as both a safety and styling feature was unheard when the original GTO was launched.

Source - Pontiac