1967 Pontiac Tempest LeMans

By the mid-to-late 1960s, Pontiac had an extensive lineup of sporty models led by the potent GTO. The GTO began life as an option package for the Pontiac LeMans and became a separate model of its own for 1966, though retaining the same basic body as the Tempest and LeMans models. All of the intermediate Pontiac models wore all-new styling for 1966 featuring tunnelback rooflines on two-door pillared coupes and hardtops. The Tempest and LeMans received a new single overhead camshaft 230 cubic-inch straight-six engine as its base powerplant with a one-barrel carburetor offering a respectable 165 horsepower. A Sprint package added a four-barrel carburetor with higher compression and a hotter camshaft, boosting output to 207 bhp. Additionally, it added a suspension kit, an 'all-synchro' floor-mounted three-speed transmission with Hurst shifter, and body striping. An optional two-barrel 326 CID V8 engine was rated at 250 horsepower or 285 hp with a four-barrel carburetor, higher compression, and dual exhausts.

For 1967, the Pontiac Tempest was available as a base model, the Custom, LeMans, and the GTO. All trim levels received minor updating to the grille and rear panel treatments. The base trim level was available as a 4-door sedan, 2-door coupe, or station wagon. The Tempest LeMans was available as a 2- and 4-door hardtop, a convertible, and a coupe.

The Tempest LeMans was distinguished by the name 'LeMans' lettering appearing on the back fenders. LeMans trim levels added carpeting, front foam seat cushions, and lamps for the ashtray, glovebox, and cigar lighter.

The 2-door body styles received three vertical air slots located near the rear fenders. They were also presented with options of having notchback bench seats with armrests, or bucket seats. The four-door hardtop came with cloth-and-Morrokide trim along with slanting chrome slashes found on the rear roof pillar. All other body styles received Morrokide upholstery.

A Series 239 Tempest Safari station wagon with wood-grained exterior paneling was often given LeMans level trim appointments. These 6-passenger wagons had a base price of $3,390 and a total of 4,511 examples were built.

by Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2017