Some enthusiasts are unable to tackle a restoration or project build. Therefore, their only alternative is to purchase a turnkey classic that offers immediate motoring pleasure. If you fall into that category, this 1968 Pontiac GTO could be irresistible. Freshly restored, this GTO presents superbly and retains its original 400ci V8 under the hood. I’m unsure whether it is perfect, but it doesn’t miss the mark by much if it isn’t. The seller has listed the Pontiac here on eBay in Lakeland, Florida. They set their auction to open at $30,000, but have received no bids at the time of writing. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this American motoring icon.
Pontiac released its Second Generation GTO for the 1968 model year. The styling marked a radical departure from its predecessor, while the new offering featured a slightly shorter wheelbase and overall length. Our feature car is a first-year example that fooled me. I initially believed the panels were painted in Cameo Ivory, but the seller assures us that the shade is actually Primavera Beige. The images may be deceptive, and the prevailing light may have “bleached” the color, creating an optical illusion. The lack of cosmetic imperfections is unsurprising because this GTO is fresh from a frame-off restoration. The paint shines beautifully, the panels are laser-straight, and the underside is as impressive as the exterior. I can’t spot any trim or glass issues, and the Rally II wheels are in as-new condition.
Potential buyers seeking an investment-grade classic will welcome the news that this GTO is numbers-matching. Its 400ci V8 sports a YS-suffix, confirming that it produces a factory-quoted 350hp and 445 ft/lbs of torque. The ponies feed to a Posi rear end via a three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission. That combination promises an effortless driving experience, an impression heightened by the power steering and power front disc brakes. Although not stated specifically, I would be amazed if this GTO wasn’t mechanically perfect. The engine bay is spotless, and the underside shots reveal no evidence of fluid leaks, so the signs are all positive.
If I were to mark this GTO harshly, I would express my disappointment at the fit of the front carpet. It requires tweaking on the passenger side to sit in the correct position. I know some readers will view that observation as nitpicking, but it reinforces my belief that the difference between a good and a great restoration is attention to the finer details. Otherwise, this interior is in as-new condition, with no wear or other shortcomings. It features a power driver’s seat, a dual-gate shifter, a wood-rimmed wheel, a factory tachometer, and an AM radio. It isn’t lavishly equipped, but it would still be a wonderful place to spend time as the miles roll effortlessly beneath its tires.
This 1968 Pontiac GTO certainly possesses the “wow” factor, and I’m surprised it hasn’t attracted any bids. The listing statistics are also quite low, which is unexpected given the seller’s 100% positive feedback. There is still time for the situation to change, and for interested parties to make a play for this classic. I would typically quote a potential sale price for this GTO, but I’ve decided to seek your input. What would you consider to be a fair price for this stunning classic?
Must be harder to do a carpet inside than one suspects. That 400 Pontiac mill sure put out some nice power. 🏁
Detroit Iron week! Cool!
Considering all we’ve seen here this looks like a bargain. Had a girlfriend with a red two year old version of this one that was a key factor for our first introduction to the Utah Highway Patrol. Very courteous and affable trooper, he had me on radar at 14 over but he knocked it down to 10 over saving me mucho dinero and points.
After he wrote the ticket he asked if he could get a look under the hood and knew all the specs about it! He talked about his ‘65 GTO he had while in the Corps and how he missed it.
Sweet old Goat you’ve got on here, Adam. See that Curvette surfs anll of North America and we’re all the better for his electronically hangin’ 10.
Nice GTO!! Love the Dualgate shifter too.
If this is as nice as it appears in the pictures, I’m all in. There have been two bids, and reserve has not been met at $30K. I’m really interested in what the reserve is on this.
There is a good chance the reserve is the same price they have it listed for on their website.
Steve R