One Owner Project: 1969 Pontiac Le Mans Convertible

Sitting in this garage is a classic that could be an excellent project candidate for the right person. It is a one-owner 1968 Pontiac Le Mans Convertible that appears to be largely unmolested. It runs and drives, providing the prospect of immediate enjoyment as the winning bidder contemplates their plans moving forward. The bidding currently sits at a relatively modest level, but even the seller’s BIN price makes this an affordable proposition.

Pontiac’s Third Generation Le Mans range hit showroom floors for the 1968 model year, with the vehicle receiving only minor upgrades for 1969. The sales volume of 104,116 vehicles was fairly respectable, but the fact that our feature vehicle is 1-of-5,676 Convertibles ordered that year increases its desirability. The seller’s photos are sadly lacking, making it impossible to make a definitive call on the overall condition of its Starlight Black paint. There are visible scratches and scrapes, but it would take an in-person inspection to determine whether some simple touch-ups would be enough to have the car presenting acceptably. There is also no information regarding whether it is rust-free, further emphasizing my belief that seeing this Convertible “in the flesh” would be wise. The seller doesn’t indicate whether they would welcome this, but it is a question worth asking. The trim and glass look quite good for a survivor-grade car, but I would probably “lose” the aftermarket wheels fairly quickly!

The listing probably demonstrates the approach an owner should take if they don’t want to sell their classic. There are limited exterior shots and none of the engine bay. However, we know that this Pontiac features the 250ci OHC six that generates 175hp and 240 ft/lbs of torque. It is backed by an automatic transmission, although it is unclear whether it is a two-speed Powerglide or a three-speed Hydramatic. The seller indicates that this Le Mans runs and drives, but doesn’t see regular use. That suggests the winning bidder should be able to enjoy this classic immediately as they formulate their plans moving forward. If the faithful path isn’t for them, slotting a more potent V8 under the hood would be straightforward. After all, buyers could order the ’69 Le Mans Convertible with a 350ci V8, placing 330hp and 380 ft/lbs of torque at the driver’s disposal. I have never heard an enthusiast state that they wished their classic had less power, so the lure of a V8 might be irresistible.

This is as close as we come to seeing this Pontiac’s interior, although we can see that it features Black vinyl upholstery, bucket seats, a console, and faux woodgrain trim. I can’t see any cracks on the pad and the vinyl shows no glaring signs of problems. I suspect that it might feature an aftermarket radio/cassette player, but it is impossible to ascertain what factory options the buyer will receive. Once again, better photos or an inspection will answer a myriad of questions.

The seller listed this 1968 Pontiac Le Mans Convertible here on eBay in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania. Bidding currently sits below the reserve at $7,099, although there is a BIN option of $12,000 for those who find it irresistible. The seller’s photos do them no favors when seeking potential buyers, but it appears this classic has generated reasonable interest. The big decision facing the buyer will be whether to pursue the faithful path or if the lure of sliding a V8 under the hood could prove irresistible. I don’t know which option I would choose. Do you?