The Pontiac GTO was an unexpected success for General Motors, with first-generation sales numbers peaking in 1966, the same year the car became its own model instead of just an options package for the Tempest LeMans. For 1967, fresh taillights were the most notable refinement outside, making the final year first-gen cars easy to identify from that viewpoint. This 1967 GTO here on eBay is a project, and while there’s some work ahead for the next owner, the car is already running and driving. This one’s located in Springtown, Texas, with the no-reserve auction already up to $15,200.
The story here is that this GTO has been in storage for at least 30 years, with 1986 being the last year the Pontiac was registered. My first impression upon initial glance was that the body appears at least decent, but once you start looking closer, a few things start to stand out. One panel in particular that caught my eye was the passenger side front fender, and I think this photo clearly illustrates that at some point the Pontiac got a new paint job before some issues were properly addressed.
The seller provides more than 100 pictures for us to scroll through, and while there may be some areas with sub-par bodywork, as a whole this one may not be all that difficult to deal with out on the outside. New lower quarters are specifically mentioned as needed, and there are a few spots of rust peeking through, but overall this GTO seems like it’s at a pretty good starting point to begin taking to the next level. Don’t forget to source a new rear bumper, as the present component has been crumpled.
One notable change in ’67 was under the hood, as the 389 grew to 400 cubic inches. In the process, the tri-power availability was also eliminated, as was the case for many GM offerings due to some corporate changes axing multi-carb setups on several of the company’s vehicles. This one no longer has the original engine present, but whatever’s in the bay now starts right up in the seller’s video, although with decades of downtime it may need to be gone through as part of the restoration.
There’s not much specific info provided about the interior, but other than a missing radio, things appear complete in there. If it’s just a driver you’re going for, maybe things inside are satisfactory for the time being, although making some repairs to the headliner might be a day well spent. I get that with a NOM this one’s not as desirable as a numbers-matching example, but with the car’s good points added in, I’m seeing a viable project here. How about you?
Looks like some body panel fitment issues in addition to the poor prep for the paint insofar as metal repair.
That being said, if there’s really nothing else wrong (a up close and personal inspection would be suggested IMHO) this could be a good project car if had for the best price.
It is missing all the lower stainless and cast trim, AC compressor, lines, condenser, shroud, etc. Power antenna switch, but no hole on the back quarter, or one for a manual front fender mount. The Edelbrock valve cover installed upside down makes you wonder about many other things. Plenty of little things to do, but it’s a project. All those little things add up quickly. Definitely needs a informed inspection. Coupes are the least desirable, but they do have a following. AC, Console, Rally Gauge package certainly add to the value, but all of those require attention. No mention of posi, or engine codes. $16k with 7 days left in the auction, wow!
Lots of red flags with this one. Far too many people, including a lot that know better, can’t see past shiny paint and a “low” price to look out for their best interests. An up personal inspection with an impartial friend is a must on this car.
Steve R
Overall this one is in pretty decent shape considering, it’s definitely worth restoring to a more complete eye catcher. If the seller were a little bit flexible on the price, it could be a pretty good rig to pick up.
Running and driving is a plus. At least you’re not buying a boat out of the water. Seems like the seller encountered other priorities (wife kids) since he had it tucked away for so long. This seems like a more salvageable project than some of the other ugly Bettys popping up here.
I had one same color but white interior 400 H.O bathtub heads 4 speed 4.10 posi cogs…I fragged the 400 out running the cops n snagged a 455 out of a 71 G.P.S.J put the cam lifters intake carb n heads from the H.O on the 455 so it was about 11.25 ?? compression. I snagged a 4.33 12 bolt posi rear from a 68 RAM ROD 350 OLDs n put in it…it was QUICK…THEN I scored on a 69 SUPER BEE with a 383 auto n 3.55 8.75….It ate the GEETO for super…sold the goat n been MOPARORNOCAR ever since
Okay
Look at you! All that, and modest too.
I could sit for days and listen to your tales. Oh wait, I just did.
Bathtub Heads?
A summer housemate of mine in college (Cal Poly – SLO, around 1986?) had one of these.
It was a Pretty Sweet Ride! (y) (y)
Had lots of “giddyup”!! 🙂
…
This one definitely has some poorly done bodywork (rear taillight panel looks wavy, as does one of the B-pillars, plus some other areas seems to show rough body repairs), & a cheap/poor repaint.
BUT it looks pretty decent overall, & could make someone a nice “driver-quality” project.
Looks to be nice enough as it sits to drive to your local “Cars & Coffee” event & spark some friendly admiration & “what to do next” discussions. …MAYBE the new owner could make some connections with someone who dabbles in bodywork & paint, & then corner a fair deal on a body & paint refresh/upgrade?
I like your thinking. I bet whomever buys it has extra parts for this car, because they own other ’67 GTOs, or restore them, or both. I have a lot of extra parts for late 60’s Impalas. Sadly, none for a ’67 GTO…
When these cars were 7-10 years old on the east coast, it was not uncommon to find them in a similar condition to this one. I agree it could be a viable project.
The data plate indicates it originally had a Cameo Ivory roof, which must have been a special order and eye catching color combination.
I wouldn’t say pass but the price would need to reflect exactly what your buying. If they want to sell it the seller needs to understand this.
I know where a parts go is sitting that can be bought cheap. This gto has been Bono before novice paint job.runs in the paint. I don’t understand these people. Sickening.
That’s laughable!
The story behind that GTO is a sad one for I lived it first hand. The car was originally Brought down from Texas/Mexico back in 1988 to a town called Hammond Indiana. The reason I say Texas/Mexico is because it was in the process of being partly restored in Mexico “Mata Moros” it was cut short due to a passing in the family. The GTO sat in my garage for the better part of 22 plus Years. The car was never completed due to the passing of my brother in 1997. I held onto her til his Son was old enough to go to college. I had to let her go. I was just wondering if you still had the “Love Machine” Stickers for the back quarter glass? I have the original Transmission for the 400 that sits under the hood. I blew it up racing a 1971 Corvette on Cline Ave. in Indiana.