Released from 1963 to 1974, the Pontiac GTO was a series of sporty cars manufactured by American automaker Pontiac. The vehicle was later revived by GM subsidiary Holden for the 2004 to 2006 model years. Upon initial release, the Pontiac GTO was sold as an upgrade package of the Pontiac Tempest but became its own model by 1966. Again in 1972, the Pontiac GTO reverted to being an options package, this time for the Pontiac Le Mans. Finally, for the 1974 model year, the GTO was a trim package for the compact Pontiac Ventura, a change from the mid-size Pontiac GTO of earlier years.
Pontiac GTO origins
In 1963, General Motors banned its divisions from involvement in auto racing. Turning away from factory-sponsored racing, Pontiac began focusing their vehicles on street performance. Designers specifically wanted to give the upcoming second-generation Pontiac Tempest a sporty upgrade. Taking the large 6.4-litre V8 engine from full-size models, Pontiac gave the car a significant boost. The name Pontiac GTO was inspired by the Ferrari 250 GTO. Despite the abbreviation standing for Gran Turismo Omologato, meaning certified for racing in the grand tourer class, the Pontiac GTO was never officially certified as a race car.
Pontiac GTO options and styles
Having undergone five separate generational redesigns, finding a Pontiac GTO for sale can vary wildly. The first and second generations, 1964 through 1972, were available as a 2-door convertible and as a 2-door coupe. Later generations only released as a coupe, including the 2003 Holden relaunch. Despite the multiple body and interior changes, the Pontiac GTO consistently offered a powerful V8 engine. The last Pontiac GTO came off the assembly line in 2006 and was based heavily on the Australian Holden Monaro.
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