Birthed in 1963 as an upgrade for the LeMans, the Pontiac GTO now proudly holds the title of America’s pioneer muscle car. Although debatable, there’s no denying the GTO’s monumental impact on the automotive golden age.
Consequently, it has become a coveted classic, particularly the first-generation models produced between 1964 and 1967. However, it’s not uncommon to find these iconic vehicles wasting away in scrapyards across the U.S.
Yet, the GTO is a name that often gets a second chance, with numerous cars being rescued from decades of neglect and lovingly restored to their former glory. The 1967 GTO featured here is a perfect example, transforming from a forgotten relic to a Concours-winning masterpiece.
Though its early history remains a mystery, the car spent a seemingly endless stretch of time in a garage. When it finally emerged, the ravages of time were evident: rusted body, mismatched paint, a ruined interior, a non-functional engine, and a shredded vinyl top.
Kevin Oeste of V8 Speed & Resto Shop, responsible for the restoration, described the car as looking “like it was dragged out of a swamp.”
Fortunately, the devoted owner chose to breathe new life into the GTO instead of consigning it to the scrapheap. This decision proved to be a wise one, as the skilled team at the restoration shop transformed the once dilapidated car into a museum-worthy classic.
The revitalization was an all-encompassing rotisserie restoration, meticulously reworking every sheet metal component and the chassis. The GTO received fresh seats, a new vinyl top, and a revitalized engine and transmission. Impressively, the car still boasts its original numbers-matching 400-cubic-inch (6.5-liter) engine, offering a power range of 265 to 360 horsepower, depending on the carburetor setup.
The restoration also incorporated a FiTech fuel injection unit, deviating slightly from its 100% stock status. While this might ruffle the feathers of some die-hard Pontiac enthusiasts, the modified V8 now offers increased reliability and fuel efficiency.
Other enhancements include a tubular suspension, a retro-style modern AC system, and Dakota Digital gauges, all carefully chosen to stay true to the car’s original essence.
The GTO instantly stole the show upon its debut at the 2022 Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals (MCACN), where the owner laid eyes on it for the first time. Competing in the Street Modified class, the Poncho scored an astounding 997 out of 1,000 points, cementing its status as a top-tier showstopper from the get-go.
Discover more about this exceptional 1967 GTO in the video below, which not only delves into the intricate restoration process but also offers insights into the unique challenges faced during such a remarkable project.
