Claiming rarity for any classic is risky unless there is documentation to verify it. It also means it is possible to make such claims based on cars fitted with a single factory option that virtually no one wanted. However, such does not appear to be the case with this 1970 Pontiac GTO “The Judge.” These are inherently desirable classics, and the options chosen by the first owner significantly enhance that. The seller claims it could be 1-of-35 built in this form in 1970, making it worth more than a passing glance. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting this Judge listed here on eBay in New Bern, North Carolina. The seller set their BIN at $87,500, and it appears they are firm on that figure.

Pontiac introduced “The Judge” as an options pack for its GTO range in 1969. It enjoyed immediate appeal, with 6,833 buyers slapping down their cash that year. Sales volumes dropped significantly in 1970, with 3,797 cars leaving the lot amid an overall GTO sales slump. The seller indicates that this 1970 Judge underwent a meticulous restoration approximately ten years ago. The builder adopted a “money is no object” approach, massaging the steel to perfection before applying a coat of the car’s original Baja Gold Metallic paint. The lack of deterioration and visible flaws suggests that this beauty has led a sheltered existence during the past decade. The optional Cordova vinyl top is in as-new condition, and this Pontiac’s desirability increases, courtesy of its iconic Hood Tach. The seller supplies underside shots revealing the cleanest floors you could hope to find, confirming this classic’s rust-free status. The stripes look crisp and clean, the Judge retains its correct rear spoiler, and the car rolls on Rally II wheels without trim rings that formed part of the Judge package.

This GTO is about more than good looks, possessing the power and torque expected of any genuine muscle car. The 400ci Ram Air engine produces 366hp and 445 ft/lbs of torque, as specified in that year’s Sales Brochure. This car also features a four-speed manual transmission, power steering, and power-assisted front disc brakes. GTO sales may have fallen below those enjoyed by the Chevrolet Chevelle SS big-block models and the Plymouth Road Runner in 1970, but this Judge would hold its own at any Traffic Light Grand Prix. Those seeking an investment-grade classic will welcome the news that this turnkey GTO is numbers-matching. The seller includes the Window Sticker and PHS documentation in the deal.

This GTO’s interior is as impressive as its exterior. Trimmed in Tan, its appearance is almost faultless in the supplied images. There is a slight wrinkle on the passenger-side door trim, but little else is deserving of criticism. The dash and pad are excellent, and the retro-style stereo appears to be the only addition. Many readers are likely still questioning the seller’s rarity claims, which deserve examination. The first owner ordered this classic with air conditioning and power windows. The seller believes that when combined with this car’s paint shade and power steering, this Judge is 1-of-35 built in this form.

I always recommend researching before committing funds to a classic purchase. These cars typically represent a luxury, and it is crucial to get the best example you can afford. That includes rarity factors, such as the claims made about this 1970 Pontiac GTO Judge. Faulting its condition is almost impossible, and if its options combination is as rare as the seller suggests, it is a special example of an inherently desirable vehicle. There is plenty of time remaining on the seller’s listing for potential buyers to undertake their detective work, but are you tempted to don your deer-stalker hat and channel your inner Sherlock Holmes? I wish you luck if you do.