Pontiac GTO was first introduced in September 1963, initially as an optional upgrade for the LeMans. With its striking design and impressive performance, the GTO quickly became a symbol of power and style on the roads.
The inaugural GTO offered three body styles: coupe, hardtop, and convertible, all available at an affordable price of just $295. At its core was a mighty 389-cubic-inch (6.4-liter) V8 engine, delivering 325 horsepower. Opting for the Tri-Power package pushed the power to a remarkable 348 horsepower. Additional features included dual exhaust pipes, a three-speed manual transmission, a new front sway bar, stylish hood scoops, and the renowned GTO badges.
The GTO we are about to delve into was produced in February, making it one of the earliest units to roll off the assembly line. Pontiac manufactured close to 32,500 GTOs during the 1964 model year, and this particular specimen has a fascinating story to tell.
For over four decades, this GTO lay dormant in storage, untouched and shielded from the outside world. Although the passage of time has taken its toll, the condition of the vehicle does not come as a surprise.
The car was sheltered indoors on a concrete floor. However, the extreme temperatures it faced over the years have left their mark. As a result, the GTO currently exhibits signs of wear and requires extensive restoration efforts.
Throughout its lifetime, this classic car underwent several questionable alterations that deviated from its original specifications. Notably, the four horizontal headlights, characteristic of the 1964 model, have been replaced, giving the impression of a 1965 GTO. A previous owner opted to swap the original front fascia with one borrowed from a later GTO, resulting in the distinct vertical headlights associated with the 1965 model year.
While the manual transmission pedals still remain, the car now features an automatic unit. The reasoning behind this swap remains unknown, leaving the decision of which transmission to pursue in the hands of the future buyer.
Underneath the hood, the once mighty 389 engine sits dormant, no longer operational and lacking the coveted Tri-Power upgrade. Restoring the engine to its former glory poses a challenge. After spending forty years in storage, it is reasonable to assume that the engine may be seized or require substantial repairs.
Accompanying the car is its original owner’s manual, but unfortunately, the rest of the paperwork is missing. Given its extended period of concealment, the absence of additional documentation is not unexpected. However, piecing together the complete history of this captivating GTO may prove to be a more challenging endeavor.
Bringing this classic beauty back to life will be a formidable undertaking. Extensive rust, coupled with a weathered interior, adds to the complexity of the restoration process. Additionally, the uncertain condition of the engine presents a further hurdle. Prospective buyers with a keen interest in this GTO will need to travel to Minnesota to inspect the car firsthand.
The rediscovery of this 1964 Pontiac GTO offers a unique opportunity to breathe new life into an automotive icon. While the challenges are plentiful, the rewards of restoring this piece of history are immeasurable. Witnessing the revival of this legendary muscle car promises to be a remarkable journey for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
