41k Original Miles: 1970 Pontiac GTO “The Judge”

“Iconic” is one of the words that many believe is overused in the classic world, but there are probably none more appropriate when describing the 1970 Pontiac GTO “The Judge.” Initially conceived as a low-cost package allowing the GTO to compete with the Plymouth Road Runner, most buyers selected an array of factory options that added significantly to the sticker price. The seller has been this Judge’s custodian for almost a decade, believing that the odometer reading of 41,000 miles is genuine. It presents superbly, with the photos suggesting it needs nothing but a new home.

Pontiac initially launched The Judge with a single paint shade of Carousel Red which has become the most instantly recognized by enthusiasts. However, it didn’t take long for every shade on the GTO color palette to join the party, as demonstrated by our feature car. The Window Sticker confirms the first owner combined Granada Gold with a Cordova vinyl top to create a distinctive look. The seller uses the term “all original” when describing this classic, suggesting it has never undergone restoration or repairs. Its condition is ultra-impressive if that is the case because its presentation is incredible. The paint shines like a mirror, with no evidence of deterioration or damage. The vinyl is spotless, the panels are laser-straight, and the distinctive Judge stripes are crisp. I can’t spot any developing rust, and the lack of surface corrosion in areas like the engine bay is a positive sign. This Pontiac retains its correct rear spoiler and Rally II wheels without the trim rings. The chrome sparkles as intensely as the paint, and the glass looks flawless.

I can’t imagine the excitement the first owner must have felt when they drove this Judge off the showroom floor, but it is a fair bet they couldn’t wait to hit the open road to discover its performance potential. The seller indicates this is a numbers-matching classic that retains its original 400ci Ram Air V8, four-speed M20 manual transmission, Safe-T-Track rear end, and power-assisted steering and front disc brakes. The Ram Air delivers 366hp and 445 ft/lbs of torque, and if anyone doubts its muscle car credentials, its ability to storm the ¼-mile in 14 seconds is all the proof you need. The seller has been this classic’s custodian for a decade, and it has always been treated respectfully. They believe that the odometer reading of 41,000 miles is genuine, although it appears they may not hold evidence. The overall presentation makes the claim plausible, but there’s nothing like holding a piece of paper that removes any doubt. They say that the car runs and drives extremely well, and is ready to head into the sunset with a new owner behind the wheel.

The theme of spotless presentation continues when we focus on this Pontiac’s interior. There is nothing deserving criticism, from its spotless Dark Brown vinyl trim to the carpet, dash, and pad. Some readers may feel that it is almost too good to be original, and I understand that sentiment. This is a case where all claims must be taken at face value, but an in-person inspection could provide a clearer picture. The first owner didn’t load it with factory options beyond the pushbutton radio, suggesting they focused on outright performance with this classic.

Pontiac GTO sales slumped by an eye-watering 45% in 1970, with only 40,149 cars rolling off the lot. The Judge wasn’t immune, with 3,797 buyers splashing the additional $337 for that package versus 6,833 the previous year. The company persisted with The Judge in 1971 but stopped taking orders in March after only 357 cars emerged from the factory. The seller listed this stunning 1970 GTO Judge here on eBay in Babylon, New York. Bidding sits below the reserve at $55,100, although there is a BIN option of $90,000. That figure is below what Hagerty quotes for a #2 example and is probably realistic if the odometer reading is verifiable. It is worth noting that while values have dropped by around 10% in the past year, the situation appears to have stabilized. Therefore, now might be the ideal time to seriously consider a car of this caliber if you have the available funds. Do we have any readers who are tempted? I will understand if you are.