389 Tri-Power: 1964 Pontiac GTO

With so many tributes hitting the market, enthusiasts are always drawn to original classics like this genuine 1964 Pontiac GTO. It isn’t just its looks and overall condition that command attention, because the engine bay houses the range-topping 389ci Tri-Power V8. The paint is relatively new, and with a range of new parts below the surface, it is a turnkey proposition. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the GTO listed here on Craigslist in Medford, Oregon, for $62,000.

John DeLorean was determined to establish Pontiac as the performance marque within the General Motors empire. He was passionate about high-performance, and the GTO was a natural result of those combined desires. It was also an exceptionally clever piece of model development. By taking the existing LeMans and raiding Pontiac’s Parts Bin for most of the mechanical components, the development costs were minimal, and the financial return was impressive. The original first-year sales projections proved conservative, because while they predicted a 1964 tally of around 5,000 cars, 32,450 buyers handed over their cash to drive a GTO home. The seller emphasizes that this 1964 GTO is the real deal, verified by PHS documentation. It was repainted in its original Marimba Red about two years ago, the only time it has been refreshed. Unsurprisingly, the presentation is first-rate. The paint holds a mirror shine, the panels are straight, and the underside shots confirm the Pontiac’s rust-free status. The trim and glass are excellent, and the seller recently fitted polished American Racing Torq Thrust wheels that could be removed if the buyer prefers originality.

The theme of spotless presentation continues inside this GTO. The seller recently fitted new seatcovers in the correct Black vinyl, while the carpet is also fairly new. They improved life aboard this classic by installing insulation to reduce heat and noise when this Pontiac is galloping free on the open road. There is little to criticize about the appearance, with no evidence of wear, abuse, or other problems. The bucket seats and console create a classy look, while the car also features a retro-style stereo and an aftermarket gauge cluster. But that’s just the appetizer, because we’re about to get to the main course.

Pontiac established the benchmark when it released the GTO in 1964, offering buyers two very impressive 389ci V8 powerplants. The entry-level version produced a factory-quoted 325hp and 428 ft/lbs of torque. I’ve never heard enthusiasts wishing their classic produced less power, but Pontiac catered for those wanting more. This GTO features the range-topping 389 Tri-Power, placing an official 348hp and 428 ft/lbs at the driver’s disposal. The first owner paired the Tri-Power with a four-speed M20 manual transmission, maximizing the car’s performance potential. Potential buyers have plenty of good news, with the listing suggesting this beauty is mechanically original. The exception appears to be the long-tube headers and the 2½” exhaust to improve breathing. The seller recently replaced a long list of suspension and steering components, ensuring that this GTO’s driving experience matches its good looks. It is ready for immediate action with its new owner behind the wheel.

Very few cars can claim to have dramatically changed the automotive landscape, but the 1964 Pontiac GTO deserves that honor. It was the catalyst for the muscle car movement that helped to define the 1960s. It forced other manufacturers to follow suit, because they soon realized that there were healthy profits in cars of this type. This GTO looks stunning, and its mechanical specifications should allow its performance to match those looks. It has only been on the market for a few hours, but how quickly do you think it will find a new home?