There’s no doubt that the Pontiac GTO is one of the most legendary classics to emerge from the American automotive industry of the 1960s. Its stunning good looks and enormous performance potential have cemented its standing as a muscle car icon. This 1966 GTO isn’t 100% original, but it is a solid survivor that needs little to push it to the next level. The owner has decided to part with it, leaving the way clear for a buyer to add the finishing touches. Located in Sheridan, Indiana, you will find this Pontiac listed for sale here on eBay. The bidding has reached $17,900 in a No Reserve auction.
It is worth noting that this Barrier Blue GTO isn’t completely original. The car has received a few modifications during its life, including aftermarket wheels and fender flares to cover those larger wheels. The car still presents nicely, with no significant issues or problems visible on its exterior. The paint shines impressively, and like the steel that hides beneath, it seems free from major flaws and defects. There is no visible rust, and the underside shots reveal little beyond a light dusting of surface corrosion on the floors and frame rails. That doesn’t mean that this classic is 100% rust-free because the owner reveals that there is some minor rust in the trunk pan. Otherwise, the trim and chrome seem to be in good condition, and I can’t see any issues with the glass.
I would love to be able to tell you that this GTO is numbers-matching, but that doesn’t appear to be the case. The engine bay contains a 400ci V8 that is backed by a four-speed close-ratio manual transmission. The specifications of that motor are unclear, so gauging its potential performance is not possible. The owner states that the car has recently received a new fuel tank and tires. He also says that the car runs and drives exceptionally well, indicating that this is a turn-key proposition for its next owner.
If the exterior presentation is impressive, opening the GTO’s doors brings us more of the same. The upholstered surfaces and headliner appear to be faultless, with no evidence of wear or physical damage. The carpet is in a similar state, as is the dash. The buyer will need to source a new dash pad, but since they are easy to find for $250, that won’t be difficult or expensive. Aftermarket additions include a stereo, a sports wheel, and a Hurst shifter. The wheel reveals one of the few flaws in here because it is missing its center cap. Beyond that, this is an interior that would not cause its new owner any shame if they lobbed at a Cars & Coffee.
If this 1966 Pontiac GTO were an original and unmolested survivor, I would expect that in its current state the bidding should easily rocket towards $35,000. Its lack of significant rust problems and overall condition means it will probably still come close to $30,000. If two or more people want it badly enough, it could still go higher. It might be worth watching this auction if you are hunting for a GTO and aren’t worried about complete originality. With No Reserve in play, there is a chance that someone could score themselves a bargain. That can’t be a bad thing.
The fender flares are hideous, wide rims with the proper offset will fit without them. They make the car look dated and not in a good way. To me, that kind of modification is a deal breaker, I’d keep looking. The green 69 GTO featured yesterday seems like a much better value.
Steve R
You took the words out of my mouth again. My gut tells me this thing is also carrying round about 40 lbs. of Bondo. The fender flares ruin this car which is a huge shame.
Two things that ruin collectible cars are wheel flairs and continental kits.
I get the flairs may not be everybody’s thing but it’s not a complicated fix. I also remember a time when a lot of folks would’ve dug em. I know, I’m old. Lol.
Straight outta Hot Rod magazine, circa 1982, not from an article but from a readers ride comment,, pissed as usual for not featuring anything without a bowtie on it,
I get the look here, wheels, flares and all…maybe it’s my audio but the start up video sounds ku-plunky. Just another ride.
$24,600 now, one very poor engine photo.
Sunday morning update: now bid to $24,801.
The bumpers appear to be tweaked at both ends, and what is with the big holes in the dashboard? Are my eyes seeing a reflection or are they really there? Maybe a dash pad is missing? The flares ruin it for me also. There are much better non molested goats out there for the money being spent here, IMO.
I owned a 1968 GTO which was the first year Pontiac offered the 400 CI engine which would lead me to believe that this goat has the original 389 CI engine or the cat dropped the 400 in at a later date.
Clearly, you ARE the GTO knowledge king with a comment like that.
62 bids.
Final bid. $31,200