If I were to state my favorite Pontiac GTO, it would probably be the sophomore edition such as this 1965 hardtop which comes to us courtesy of  Mike F. It’s hard for me to put my finger on the exact reason but I suppose that it’s a certain subtle rawness possessed by the ’65 version. It’s not much altered from the inaugural ’64 model but the 65’s appearance (maybe it’s the stacked headlights), to my eyes, is cleaned up just enough to make it stand out a wee bit more without proclaiming, “Hey, look at me!” This Golden, Colorado subject is a project, suitable for restoration, and it’s available, here on craigslist for $12,000.

About 75K copies of John DeLorean’s conceived hot rod hit the street in ’65 and that total was spread across three body styles, a hardtop, coupe (with a B-pillar), and convertible. The hardtop was clearly the favorite accounting for 73% of the total. This example is a bit rough looking but shows as being sound. Known for extensive rust-breeding capabilities, as were all GM A-body cars of this era, this GTO, by virtue of the included images, reveals no rot – just surface rust. I’m trying to figure out the hue, it looks like a dark green shade with lots of red primer bleed-through but that seems out of character considering the blue vinyl interior – more on that to follow. Some trim and badging are missing – no word if the pieces are included in the sale, and of course, a rear window will need to be sourced. The chrome-plated steel wheels are a throwback, probably to the seventies.

The engine room is occupied by standard GTO power, which means a 335 gross HP, 389 CI V8 engine—in this case, it’s attached to a four-speed manual transmission. The seller mentions, “Turns over but not running. Rolls and brakes.” Speaking of brakes, the listing states “disc brakes” but if that’s the case, they must have been added later as they were not available as a 1965 option. Fortunately, the engine compartment looks original and unmodified, even the original chrome-plated GTO air cleaner is still in place.

As referenced earlier, the interior is a blue vinyl (or Morrokide in Pontiac speak) affair but it has seen better days. The upholstery and dash pad have taken a whoopin’; the carpet is mostly missing, but it’s all there, and restoration should be manageable. I’m not certain why sellers leave boxes and buckets of detritus planted on the seat of their photographed subject – how much effort would it take to remove it for a better view? Anyway, and of note, this goat is equipped with power windows and A/C though the compressor is missing.

The seller opens the listing with, “Restoration project complete car needs complete restoration.” Yes to both thoughts, it needs work but it does show as complete. So, a good start? Maybe, I’d like to see the underside and get a more thorough assessment of the powerplant. As for that $12,000 price, what’s your thought, about right or not quite?