The Pontiac GTO is most often credited with starting the mid-size muscle car movement in the 1960s. Based on the Tempest/LeMans, the GM division rolled out the GTO in 1964 to what they thought would be a limited audience – 5,000 units per year. Boy, were they wrong, with sales of 32,400 in ’64 and a peak of 97,000 in 1966. This first-year “GOAT” looks like a sweet survivor with perhaps 50,000 miles to show for it. Located in Phoenix, Arizona, this 389 V8 equipped powerhouse is available here on craigslist for $37,900. Bravo to T.J. for another Pontiac performance tip!

John DeLorean, general manager of Pontiac at the time, was one of the brains behind the GTO (which to many is an abbreviation for “gas, tires, and oil”). The Tempest/LeMans was a great platform for this launch because the cars had been promoted to intermediate status in ’64 after being a compact for the prior three years. Pillared and hardtop coupes were offered in addition to a convertible and all of them were powered by a 389 cubic inch V8. Two-thirds of production came with a 4-barrel carburetor while the balance had the powerful Tri-Power arrangement (the former is what’s in the seller’s car).

We’re told that this GTO comes with PHS documentation to prove it’s the real deal (hopefully that paperwork is transferred to the buyer). No mention is made of numbers matching, the engine or the 4-speed manual transmission. We’re told the hot rod runs great, thanks to new parts including tires, brakes, and shock absorbers. The car has an oversized exhaust system, so it must sound pretty badass. The red interior is said to be original and looks quite good except for the carpeting (no mention is made if the white paint has been redone on a rust-free body).

The seller is downsizing, so this car along with several others are up for sale. So, if the GOAT doesn’t do it for you, you might ask the seller about his/her ’57 Bel Airs (2), ’68 Mustang (hopped up), and another ’64 GTO with the triple carbs. Since a collector is no doubt involved here, chances are this GTO is everything it’s supposed to be instead of what you might get from a flipper.