If the hands of time could be turned backward, I’m certain the owner of this 1966 Pontiac GTO would reset the clock a couple of minutes before the unthinkable happened, and be at just about any other location other than wherever this poor Poncho was sitting when it got rear-ended. My first concern is hoping the driver is OK, as this appears to be a rather high-impact crash, followed by wondering about the goat’s future, given its present state. Whether you’re pondering parts or a possible repair, this 1966 Pontiac GTO is currently in Urbana, Illinois, and can be seen here on eBay. So far, the high bid is resting at $2,125, but it can also be bought right now for $9,500.
Looking at the bright side, it’s a plus that this one’s a true GTO and not a clone, as evidenced by the 42 in the VIN. It’s also not a bad thing to reflect on what a fine muscle car example this was before it got destroyed from behind. However, with a hit this hard, I’d examine every component carefully before deciding what might be usable, whether they’re being considered for parts or getting this one back on the road. One of my biggest telltale concerns regarding stress here is the hood, since the force was substantial enough to cause the section closest to the windshield to rise. Still, if you’re blessed with the talent and have extensive sheet metal repair experience, perhaps this one’s not too far gone to take on as a project.
The only details provided about the engine are that it’s a 389 with the tri-power setup, and that it was running before the accident. There’s no word on whether or not that’s still the born with block, or if the three 2-barrels are factory or were added later, as the majority of these cars came with a single 4-barrel. Although the belt is missing, it’s good to see the A/C equipment still intact, but several mechanical unknowns will be in store for the buyer. No information at all is provided about the transmission, other than the seller posting that it’s an automatic.
As a whole, much of the interior still seems fairly decent, and there’s just enough wear in the driver’s sections that it doesn’t necessarily look like all of the inside has been restored, at least not recently. However, with the crumpled area extending along the entire left quarter and into the roof, I’m guessing some of the components in here took a beating, with the headliner among them. It’s sad when accidents happen, especially when they involve a classic like this 1966 Pontiac GTO, but hopefully this one can either be straightened out or provide some needed parts that will help another one live. Are you seeing much hope that this one can be saved?
Jeez Louise, I think we should have a contest to see what people think caused this kind of damage. I mean, this is no econobox, it’s a full on frame car and clearly toast. I’m surprised the gas tank didn’t let go. It’s not from a multi car pileup, like a semi running into the back, it would have front damage. I’ve seen a lot of wrecked cars, but this is extreme. Snow plow? Dropped off a cliff? Shame, it was a nice car. Make a nice parts car.
I’ve seen a few of these scenarios in my 6+ decades of life (not involving beautiful classics like this one but nonetheless similar scenarios) and this could conceivably be the result of an innocent bystander in the way of a drug lord being chased by the law where the law and (hopefully) the driver of this beauty won.
demo derby car????
What a shame. Firstly I hope the occupants are ok. The window frames and roof are bent. Honestly this is a parts car at best at this point. ’66 is my favorite year Goat too. I agree with Howard I saw that gas tank and thank goodness it held and didn’t go up. This thing took some hit from the rear. No headrests on a ’66 and it kind of seems the drivers seatback is leaning back a bit. Very sad ending to a really nice ’66.
Shame. I just hope the owner had it insured for what it was worth.