70k Documented Miles: 1968 Pontiac GTO

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This 1968 Pontiac GTO seems to tick the right boxes for enthusiasts seeking a desirable classic muscle car. Its ownership history and odometer reading are both documented, and it retains its numbers-matching drivetrain. However, it falls short of being considered a survivor due to the changes that have been made during its life. If total originality is not your chief concern, it has a lot to offer. I must say a big thank you to eagle-eyed Barn Finder T.J. for spotting the GTO listed here on Craigslist in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. The seller set their price at $47,500 for this potent turnkey classic.

Pontiac released a dramatically revised Second Generation GTO in 1968, featuring a more sculpted and potentially more aerodynamically efficient body than its predecessor. Our feature car emerged during that first model year, and its presentation is extremely tidy. The seller admits there are small areas of filler in both rear quarter panels, but a total lack of rust. There are no major cosmetic imperfections following a repaint in Cameo Ivory in 1987. The lack of deterioration suggests the work was completed to a high standard, but also brings us to a subject that might be a sticking point for some potential buyers. The seller includes a shot of the Cowl Tag in their listing, revealing a Paint Code of “K1.” That indicates that the first owner ordered this GTO in Meridian Turquoise with a contrasting Ivory vinyl top. It is unclear why the refresh included a color change, but purists will probably agree that this will potentially impact this classic’s value. It sits on vintage Cragar wheels, which are period-correct, while the trim and glass look extremely good for their age.

I will never understand why a seller would list a classic as desirable as this GTO and then fail to supply any engine photos. The GTO is a muscle car, and its engine is its defining feature. This omission is almost unforgivable and will hurt their chances of a successful sale. However, I located another listing for this classic via a website in the seller’s description, electing to drop an engine shot from that advertisement into this article. They confirm that this Pontiac is numbers-matching and that the claimed odometer reading of 70,400 original miles is documented. That means that lifting the hood will reveal the glorious 400ci V8, hooked to a four-speed manual transmission and a 3.55 Safe-T-Track rear end. The Pontiac Dealer Specification Sheet quotes power and torque figures of 350hp and 445 ft/lbs, which are the types of figures that made muscle cars so legendary. Potential buyers can consider this GTO as a turnkey proposition that runs and drives well. The seller recently completed an extended road trip, which the car completed effortlessly..

The GTO’s exterior paint shade may have changed, but a recent retrim on this classic was completed in the correct Parchment vinyl. With almost everything inside this classic new, there are no flaws or other problems that would result from wear or abuse. The trim is spotless, the dash and pad are perfect, and there are no carpet issues. A satellite converter below the dash is an untidy aftermarket addition that functions via a modified standard Pontiac radio. However, the seller also includes this car’s original radio if this joins the list of changes that the new buyer might choose to reverse.

It will be fascinating to gauge your feedback on this 1968 Pontiac GTO because it seems to have so many positive attributes. The documentation is a significant factor, as are its numbers-matching drivetrain and inherent desirability. However, the color change means it can’t be considered a genuine survivor, which will also impact its potential value. Reversing that item is possible, but the cost would be hard to justify if the seller is firm on their price. Would you consider returning this GTO to its original form, or would you focus on it as a high-end driver?

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Comments

  1. Stan StanMember

    I like 👍the setup bigtime. Who wouldn’t. Look at that tall 4sp stick to lay down all the power. Perfect. Also personally love the look of this year’s model in the white paint.

    Like 8
  2. Fox owner

    Ahh the age old debate. Is it worth the money if it’s not original? If the body filler isn’t visible who cares? Somebody with a magnet would know, otherwise. That satellite radio conversion is a little janky. If you could relocate that box to the trunk and use a remote, unless the GTO radio has the controls, then I would be happy.

    Like 3
  3. JoeBob

    A personal inspection would be good, but for the condition this GTO appears to be in $47.5k seems reasonable. But I’m surprised for this price there are no engine bay or underside pics.

    Like 1
  4. Mike76

    Turquoise and parchment would look very attractive, and in the case of selling, would probably be a more desired combo, not just for originality, but white as an exterior color is generally not appreciated as much on classic cars. Personally, I like the looks of this GTO in white over parchment, but I think the asking price is a bit high considering the color change.

    As a foot note, the market agreed on the price too, this Goat was bid up to 38k on BAT last November.

    Like 1
  5. Faroutfreak

    I like the Ivory, my 69 GTO Judge was the Carousel Red with white Interiour . With the Port and polished 400.work done at Garlits racing in Ocala the car was fast and enjoyable

    Like 4

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