400/4-Speed: 1970 Pontiac GTO Convertible

If you’re looking at the photos of this 1970 Pontiac GTO Convertible and are thinking to yourself, “My, that presents nicely,” it does so for a very good reason. Only two years have passed since it underwent a complete restoration. However, this classic is about far more than good looks, possessing mechanical specifications befitting a muscle car. The icing on the cake is a selection of factory options, designed to increase the GTO’s desirability. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this beautiful Pontiac listed here on eBay in Commack, New York. The seller has received no bids in an auction that opened at $46,000, but there is a BIN option of $54,000 for those wishing to bypass the auction process. I may be misreading the situation, but I believe that this might be a No Reserve auction.

The GTO had successfully cemented its place in the muscle car market segment by the time Pontiac released its Second Generation in 1968. Sales remained strong, although the badge lost its top spot by 1970 due to intense competition. This Convertible rolled off the line that year and has recently emerged from a thorough restoration. No aspect of this classic escaped the seller’s attention, with the panels massaged to the point where they were laser-straight before the car received a fresh coat of Polar White. There is no evidence of deterioration, and the paint retains an impressive shine. The White soft-top is in great condition, and it appears that this GTO is rust-free. The contrasting Blue stripes are as crisp as you would rightly expect, given the car’s recent history, and the glass is clear.

Although it isn’t stated in the listing text, I believe that the restoration probably included a retrim in Blue vinyl. The only thing that surprises me is that the first owner didn’t order this classic with air conditioning. However, they did equip it with power windows, a tilt wheel, and a Hood Tach. As with the exterior, the interior appears spotless. There is slight wrinkling on the front seats, but this isn’t a deal-breaker. Otherwise, this interior should receive plenty of positive feedback when the buyer hits the road with the top down.

The winning bidder will drive away in a classic featuring a 400ci V8, a four-speed manual transmission, a Posi rear end, power steering, and power-assisted front disc brakes. The 1970 Sales Brochure quotes power and torque figures of 350hp and 445 ft/lbs for the 400, but this classic may deliver more. The seller confirms that the motor features the Ram Air cylinder heads with larger valves, and improved breathing is the best way to unleash additional ponies. There is no information confirming this car’s mechanical condition, but I can see nothing in the photos that would cause concern.

Scrutinizing the seller’s images suggests there is little to criticize about this 1970 Pontiac GTO Convertible. Its presentation is first-rate, and it should possess enough power to satisfy even the most hardened performance enthusiast. The only thing that surprises me is the lack of auction action. The Listing View tally is extremely modest, with only six people adding this classic to their Watch List. If my assumption is correct and the seller is offering this GTO with No Reserve, a single bid could see it head to a new home. Maybe that is why things have been quiet on the western front, and the serious action will happen in the closing minutes. It might be worth watching proceedings to see how it pans out. Alternatively, you could make a play for this classic, and I will understand if you do.