400 Tri-Power: 1967 Pontiac GTO

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Widely regarded as the father of the muscle car, pristine examples of the First Generation Pontiac GTO typically command impressive prices. This 1967 GTO proves that even when modified, these classics generate significant interest when they hit the market. The changes made are reversible if the winning bidder seeks authenticity, but enjoying the car in its current form may prove irresistible to many. Why not take a look and see if it interests you enough to pursue this classic further?

It will be fascinating to gauge your opinion on the subject because I have always considered the First Generation GTO as the most attractive vehicle to wear that badge. I know many enthusiasts focus on the Second Generation and the ultra-desirable “Judge” variant, but there is something almost pure about the styling of early cars. I feel the same about pony cars, but I must acknowledge that this is my personal opinion. Yours might vary from mine, and that is one of the factors that makes the classic scene so fascinating. The history of this ’67 is unclear, with the seller failing to mention a possible restoration. However, considering the spotless state of its Tyrol Blue paint, I find the scenario very likely. The panels are as straight as an arrow, and there is no evidence or mention of rust. The seller appears approachable and might be willing to negotiate an in-person inspection for anyone genuinely interested in pursuing this classic further. The glass is crystal clear, while the trim and wheels continue the theme of spotless presentation.

This GTO’s interior possesses the “wow” factor, but also exposes the first of many changes that will divide opinions. These include a Hurst shifter, a cruise control, and a Dakota Digital gauge cluster featuring a tachometer. The seller indicates the door trims and carpet are new, but the overall condition of the remaining upholstered surfaces suggests they aren’t old. There is no significant visible wear, and the faux woodgrain is excellent. The dash and pad have avoided the ravages of age and UV exposure, and the beautiful wood-rimmed wheel looks perfect. It may not be 100% original, but this interior should still receive positive comments should the new owner rock up to their local Cars & Coffee.

The seller supplies no engine photos, which is frustrating when this feature defines what a muscle car is. Pontiac performed a range of mechanical upgrades for 1967, with the most profound being its decision to enlarge the capacity of its existing V8 to 400ci. The Tri-Power setup was also a distant memory, but not in our feature car. It is unclear whether this car retains its numbers-matching powerplant, but its 400 features a Tri-Power system. The engine is backed by a five-speed Tremec manual transmission and a 3.55 limited-slip rear end from a later Chevelle. It would be fair to expect around 360hp under the driver’s right foot, although there could be more if the builder added internal engine upgrades. The seller supplies no information about how the Pontiac runs or drives, which is almost unforgivable in a car of this caliber. However, the visual indications are positive.

The seller listed this 1967 Pontiac GTO here on eBay in Westlake, Louisiana. To describe the auction action as frantic would not be an understatement, with fifty bids pushing the price beyond the reserve to $30,025. That might be the tip of the iceberg because the listing’s recent viewing history suggests a few people might join the party before the hammer falls. Placing a firm value on any classic once modified is challenging, which is the case with this Pontiac. What do you feel a fair price would be? Considering what you know of its modifications, are you tempted to pursue it further?

Comments

  1. Stan StanMember

    Wow what have we here. 🏁

    Like 2
  2. Steve R

    Nice looking car, good parts selection. Too bad there aren’t more pictures. If the listing is real someone might get a good car at a good price.

    Steve R

    Like 4
  3. Howard A HoAMember

    Ugh,,,okay, got to remember, it’s a miracle we have this machine at all, in the middle of the mountains, no less,, okay, where was I? Oh yeah, talk about timing, a friend in SC Wisc. many years ago, late 90s, attended a farm action and amongst the usual farm items, was a ’67 GTO, added to the sale later. May have had a vinyl top, and like the other attendees, just the wrong crowd and nobody was bidding on it. Like the others, he wasn’t interested in buying a GTO, but couldn’t resist. He wouldn’t tell me what he paid, but I’m sure it was peanuts.
    The ’67 may have waned some, 82,000 compared to almost 100,000 in ’66, but ’68 changed everything, and to most, when mentioning a GTO, the ’64-’67 are the ones to have. I realize the automatic bit, but I’ve softened on that a bit, and while I still think a ’54 Hudson, or equivalent, should have one, anyone that wants a GTO like this, wants it for what it is and will learn how to drive it, I bet,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,and trying again.

    Like 4
  4. Patrick

    The 67 GTO was and is a beautiful looking car. The 400 was a quick motor, I like it.

    Like 2

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