It is sometimes challenging to pick a classic’s single greatest attribute. Such is the case with this 1968 Pontiac GTO. From its spotless new paint to its immaculate retrimmed interior, it seems to tick the boxes enthusiasts prefer. However, this is an iconic muscle car, meaning many will be more concerned about the story below the surface. Rest assured, it is unlikely to disappoint on that front. It is ready for a new owner to take charge and enjoy this GTO as its creators intended.
Pontiac released its Second Generation GTO range for the 1968 model year. The company abandoned its previous Coke-Bottle styling in favor of a more curvaceous look that began appearing across many marques during this period. Our feature car is a first-year example, finished in Aleutian Blue with a Black vinyl top. Faulting its presentation is seemingly impossible, with the car recently receiving fresh paint over arrow-straight panels. The gaps are tight and consistent, and there is no evidence of corrosion or developing rust. The vinyl appears perfect, leading me to believe that it is as new as the paint. The trim and glass are above average for their age, and the Rally II wheels retain the correct trim rings and center caps.
Muscle car enthusiasts can’t help but feel admiration for this GTO. Its engine bay houses a 400ci V8, with the car also featuring a four-speed manual transmission, power steering, and power brakes. It is unclear whether the car is numbers-matching, which is a consideration if part of the purchase criteria is the car’s long-term investment potential. However, the seller indicates that the transmission was recently rebuilt, the same is true of the brakes and power steering, and the list of new parts also includes a clutch, U-joints, fuel tank, exhaust, and rear suspension. The seller mentions enhancements in their listing but doesn’t pinpoint specific changes. They also don’t indicate how well the Pontiac runs or drives. I always advise undertaking research before committing the funds to a classic purchase and contacting the seller to pose a few questions would be the logical starting point in this case.
The GTO’s exterior isn’t the only area possessing the “wow” factor, because the interior received a retrim in the correct Blue vinyl. Therefore, it is no great shock that its presentation is immaculate. The vinyl is spotless, the carpet is excellent, and there are no issues with the dash, pad, or faux woodgrain. The Hurst shifter is the only obvious update, with this classic retaining items like the factory radio, sports gauge cluster, and tachometer.
When a classic hits the market on certain online websites, I quickly have a look at the listing history to ascertain whether it has struck a chord with potential buyers. The seller listed this 1968 Pontiac GTO here on eBay in Granville, Iowa. It has received thirty-six bids, and with 260 views during the past day and seventy-six people placing it on their Watch List, it is clear that many people like what they see. This action has pushed the price to $15,800, and, unsurprisingly, that figure falls short of the reserve. I would typically speculate on a potential sale price, but I’m placing the ball in your court this time. What do you feel it will be when the hammer falls? We only have five days to wait for the answer, unless you decide to influence the price by joining the bidding party. I wish you good luck if you do.
If I had The cash this would be a no brainier for me.. clean classic
This is a solid looking 68. More pictures under the hood, in the trunk and under the car would be good, but at the current bid of $19.2k it’s still a bargain.
The blue paint and upholstery are a refreshing change from the usual green or gold, both of which I like. Power steering and stoppers will be welcome while you concentrate on shifting through traffic. Nothing here that’s not to like.
This car is sharp, though IMHO the ’68 GTO’s iconic design is best displayed when equipped with the optional hideaway headlamps and without a vinyl top. I too like the colors here. I believe it is Aegena Blue with the Teal interior, but it would be nice to see a pic of the body data tag to be sure(assuming they are the original colors). Of course supplying PHS docs is pretty much de rigueur now and their absence is notable. I am curious what the mileage truly is as the seller just states “odometer reads 37,000” without any indication if it is accurate; perhaps the seller doesn’t know.
Overall this car looks promising, a nice driver without too many liberties taken. If I was in the market this one would be worth considering. Personally I think I’d go back to the stock shift ball but job one for me would be to banish the engine call-out sticker from the HO-style air cleaner lid. Some GTO owners just love to slap these on, but the ’71-’72 455 HO equipped cars were the only GTOs to ever get air cleaner stickers. I also got a chuckle from the not one, not two, but THREE hanging tree air fresheners. Hopefully the owner just REALLY loves that “pine fresh smell” as otherwise it makes me wonder why they are necessary. Good luck to buyer and seller alike.
Ahhhhh…the old “felony forest”.