I am doing a paper on the Pontiac GTO and have some questions about the first generation GTO’s that I am hoping someone can help answer and verify, primarily the 1964 and 1965 offerings.
1.) Aside from the 389 cubic inch V8 were any additional engine sizes offered?
2.) If I understand this correctly, 1964 was not a GTO but a Lemans with a special option code which made it a GTO? Could this option be ordered on other models or body styles, ex: 4 door sedans?
3.) 1965 was the first year a GTO model was offered by Pontiac not as an option?
4.) Why is the 1964 Pontiac GTO referred to as “The first true Muscle Car”?
Have you visited the OldRide Library yet?
It might contain the information on the GTO that you are looking for.
You can visit the library at the following link - [url]www.oldride.com/library/1969_pontiac_gto.html[/url]
Plus we are adding new information all the time, so check back often...we are always open!
1) The 389 was the only eng offered until 1967,tri power was offer in 64,65, half of 66.
2) The GTO was an option in64 & 65, it was not a model till 66 there is no way to tell if 64,65 are actually GTOs wnless you contact PHS.
4) First time a big block eng. put in a mid-size body
I hope this helps somone out there
1) the 326 was the popular engine in 64. 2) I think it is a matter of symantics. You ordered a GTO which was basically the Lemans trim level (vs custom or whatever) on the Pontiac Tempest, with bucket seats, floor shifter, grab bar and badges. It was available only on 2 dr hardtop (Custom was 2 door with post) and conv. 3) Late 50's chrysler products were screamers and 60 Pont, Olds etc had buckets and floor shifters but GTO was first to market as a 'hot' car. Read re John DeLorean at Pontiac. He took Lemans, took off chrome (saved money) and marketed it to youth market at higher price. Camaro, Mustang etc started as grocery getters with flair and only later turned to youth market.
389ci with FBC or 3X2 with 360hp in 64 and 65.400 replaced them and was not offered with 3x2.1967 has the best looking back end IMO.Mesh like timing chain was a sore spot for them.I think of Mopar cheap sedans with huge motors as first near stock strip burners.
389 was the only mtr offered in the 64/65 cars, ive seen some later ones with 428s in them, super rare. GTO was an option the first year, then an actual car line in 65, GTOs were either 2dr coupes, sedans or convertibles, not 4 drs. first true muscle car is arguable, but it fits the idea that a family car was hopped up to make it fast.
Take a look at this article by Edmunds http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Features/articleId=101696
You might also try the Year One catalog and they have some reference books for sale.