The 1965 Pontiac GTO, a performance-oriented option package initially offered on the Tempest LeMans, rapidly gained a cult following. Priced at a modest $295, the GTO transformed the LeMans into a bona fide muscle car, propelling production from a modest 32,000 units in its debut year to over 75,000 in 1965. A prime example of this automotive icon recently emerged from a decades-long slumber.
This particular GTO, discovered in untouched, original condition, has undergone a modern transformation. The heart of the car has been replaced with a potent 428 cubic-inch engine, mated to a smooth-shifting TH350 automatic transmission.
To harness the increased power, the cooling system has been upgraded with an aluminum radiator and dual electric fans, ensuring optimal operating temperatures under any driving condition.
Modern conveniences such as air conditioning and electronic ignition have been seamlessly integrated, enhancing both comfort and performance. Moreover, the engine has been meticulously tuned to run on readily available 93-octane fuel without sacrificing power, making this GTO a thrilling yet practical ride for the modern enthusiast.
This GTO is a high-performance masterpiece, meticulously engineered for the driving enthusiast. Its heart, a potent engine enhanced by street performance springs, heavy-duty transmission components, and robust Ross-forged pistons, transforms this classic into a bona fide road rocket.
The beauty of this GTO lies in its turnkey condition; no further investment is required for those simply yearning to experience raw power. A Texan native, the car boasts an immaculate exterior that appears untouched by rust, though definitive proof remains elusive. A comprehensive restoration, initiated in 2017 and concluded in 2020, returned the GTO to its original splendor.
The interior mirrors the exterior’s pristine condition, creating a harmonious and inviting cabin space. While the extent of original interior components is uncertain, it’s a detail likely overlooked by performance-focused buyers fascinated by the car’s exhilarating capabilities.
