1964-65 Pontiac GTO

Not enough can be said about the very first muscle car.  The 1964 GTO ushered in a new era, a time of performance and power, as opposed to thrift and economy brought about by an economic recession.  While only 5,000 Goats were projected, Pontiac was able to build over 32,000 for '64, a number that would eventually exceed 90,000 cars -- a spectacular success.

It's no wonder the GTO was so successful.  With up to 348 hp available on the '64, it was no sleeper.  Anyone can just put a 389 on a midsize chassis and have a fast car, however.  Pontiac knew that, so they threw in some race car features.   Among these, an available heavy-duty four speed, racing suspension, upgraded steering, dual exhaust, and a plethora of comfort and performance options.

The '65 GTO had increased horsepower by way of revised heads and a new camshaft.  A whopping 360 hp was on tap when ordered with Pontiac's "Tri-Power" option.  The '65 also had a more aggressive stance with its vertical quad headlamps.  Pontiac also doubled production this year.  These GTOs are indeed a special and rare breed of automobile. We should be thankful that Pontiac has not brought back the GTO name; no modern car could live up to this legendary name.
 
 
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1965 Pontiac GTO
  1964 Pontiac GTO 389ci engine
 
 1964 Pontiac GTO
(click on image for larger photo)
1964 Pontiac GTO

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