The problem with the 1970 Pontiac GTO is that prices for pristine examples can place them beyond the reach of mere mortals. However, this Tribute will cost considerably less than the real deal, delivering comparable performance while turning heads wherever it goes. This beauty needs nothing, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Pontiac listed here on eBay in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. The seller set their BIN at $48,000 for this beautiful classic.
Describing this Le Mans as stunning seems to be an understatement. The previous owner handed the car to Harrison Racing and Restoration in Jacksonville, Florida, asking the company to create a fitting 1970 GTO Convertible Tribute. They fulfilled the design brief exceptionally well, delivering a vehicle that is guaranteed to draw crowds. From its rich Starlight Black paint to the dazzling graphics and the flawless trim, there is much to like about this Pontiac. Cosmetically, I can’t find anything to criticize. The paint’s depth of color and shine are amazing, and the laser-straight panels and consistent gaps confirm the creator’s attention to detail. The matching Black soft-top fits as tight as a drum, and the glass is clear. The Le Mans rolls on a set of reproduction Rally II wheels that provide the perfect finishing touch.
If this Pontiac’s exterior is impressive, the interior confirms the builder’s consistent approach. Trimmed in Black cloth and vinyl, it is seemingly faultless. The upholstered surfaces show no evidence of wear or other problems, and the same is true of the carpet, dash, and faux woodgrain. The gauges feature clear lenses and crisp markings, and the driver controls this Tribute via a Formula wheel. It isn’t just a pretty face, because the buyer receives air conditioning, a hood tach, an AM/FM radio with the optional rear speaker, and an 8-track player.
I’m disappointed that the seller provides no engine bay images, but they confirm that this Pontiac features a 400ci V8, a three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission, power steering, and power front disc brakes. They provide a close-up of the engine block code. The YS confirms the capacity, and depending on the year produced, it could deliver up to 350hp in standard form. The seller states that the existing motor was installed during the build, meaning that this classic isn’t numbers-matching. However, I don’t view that as a negative, considering this isn’t a genuine GTO. The build included a complete suspension refurbishment, ensuring the car tracks straight and true. The seller has been the car’s custodian for a year, using it for weekend outings. That confirms that this Pontiac is a turnkey proposition.
Some enthusiasts view Tribute vehicles with disdain, accepting nothing but the genuine article. However, those willing to compromise can slip behind the wheel of a car offering a comparable motoring experience to an original GTO for considerably less than they might pay for the real deal. I admit that this 1970 Pontiac Le Mans Convertible isn’t what many would consider to be cheap, but the price is at least $20,000 less than you would typically pay for a GTO in similar condition. Are those thoughts enough to tempt you to pursue this classic further? I wish you luck if you do.
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