1969 Pontiac GTO Hardtop

Pontiac stunned the world when they introduced their specially-outfitted Tempest sporting a 389 cubic-inch V8 engine. It was given the name 'GTO' upon John DeLorean's insistence. These cars offered aggressive straight-line performance and performance-natured handling. Production began in 1964 and continued through 1974 and are considered to be the start of the American muscle car movement. For 1968, the Tempest models, including the GTO, were given a completely new body design. The 389 had since been replaced by a 400 cubic-inch V8.

This particular 1969 Pontiac GTO Coupe was created in Atlanta, Georgia. The engine has recently been professional rebuilt by the Classic Showcase in California, and fitted with a Rhino Pac Heavy-Duty clutch, resurfaced the flywheel, serviced the transmission, and installed new rubber brake lines. This car includes the hood mounted tachometer, Ram Air hood, air ducts that provided air flow tot eh four-barrel carburetor, MSD ignition system with Billet aluminum distributor, factory four-speed transmission with floor shifter, bucket seats, a Delco AM radio, center console, and dual Flowmaster exhausts.

In 2008, this vehicle was offered for sale at the 'Sports & Classics of Monterey' presented by RM Auctions. It had an estimated value of $40,000 - $60,000 and offered without reserve. The lot was sold for a high bid of $33,500, including buyer's premium.

The Pontiac GTO known as 'The Legend' and 'The Great One' is the car that actually started the muscle car era. Pontiac production of the GTO from 1964 to 1974 was 514,797 units.

By Daniel Vaughan | Sep 2014