The Pontiac GTO is arguably the car that started the American muscle car movement.
The legendary “Goat” started as an option for the Pontiac Tempest in 1964, became a standalone model in 1966, and returned to its original option status in 1973. The early model GTO ended life as an option package for the LeMans in 1973 and the compact Ventura in ’74.
Then it was gone.
In its fairly short lifespan (from 1964-74), the GTO left an indelible mark on the American automotive scene. Although Pontiac would resurrect the GTO name in 2004, we think true American hot rodders (and those who fancy themselves hot rodders) should be well versed in those first 10 years of the Pontiac GTO. As a public service, we put together this quick guide identifying various early model Goats.
Think of it as an American history lesson.
The 1964 GTO was an option on the LeMans, rather than the Tempest. The LeMans tail lights were different from the Tempest, and the model number on the VIN was for a LeMans, as well.
“Tempest” was the name of Pontiac’s intermediate model for 1964; LeMans was a trim package on the Tempest and the GTO was an option on the LeMans package. The Custom was also a trim package on the Tempest, but the GTO option wasn’t available on it. The base Tempest sport coupe model number is 2027, Custom sport coupe 2127, LeMans and GTO both are 2227.
How about a 1971 GT-37. The VIN says it would have been equipped with a 400 big block but I bought it with an olds 350 rocket in it . Any idea wether this could have been a factory option or would the VIN engine code then reflect it as such
The GTO while one of my faves, it did not start the muscle car movement. The 55’ Chevy and Ford already had that challenge met. The need for speed came a little later in the form of a F-16 flying inverted cock-pit to cock-pit at 20000 feet flipping off a Russian pilot! Let that stew! Til you figure that out!
Hola. Pues tengo un Pontiac Tempest Azul cielo y lo estoy restaurando poco apoco nesecito conseguir sus interiores de las puertas , y otros como su acondionador de aire.