1968 Pontiac GTO: A Snapshot of Muscle Car Heritage

The 1968 Pontiac GTO stands as an icon of the muscle car era, representing a blend of performance, style, and innovation that captured the spirit of the late 1960s. Known for its bold design, powerful engine options, and a legacy that has made it one of the most cherished classic American cars, the GTO's appeal is undeniable. This particular model, featuring a numbers-matching 400 V8 engine and a Turbo 400 3-speed automatic transmission, is a testament to the heritage of Pontiac performance.

A Brief History of the 1968 GTO

The 1968 model year marked a significant redesign for the GTO. With its new A-body platform, the GTO featured a more curvaceous, sculpted look compared to previous years, along with the introduction of the now-iconic "Endura" front bumper—a body-colored, impact-resistant feature that set it apart from other muscle cars of the time. The 1968 GTO also introduced the hidden headlight option, which, combined with the aggressive stance and pronounced "Coke-bottle" body lines, made it an instant classic.

This Specific 1968 GTO: Key Features and Specifications

• Mileage and VIN: The odometer reads 1,339 miles, though the actual mileage cannot be verified. The VIN for this GTO is 242378R192055, signifying its authentic GTO status from the Arlington, Texas plant.

• Engine and Transmission: Under the hood lies the original numbers-matching 400 cubic inch V8 engine, paired with a Turbo 400 3-speed automatic transmission. This drivetrain combination is renowned for its robust performance and reliability, a hallmark of the GTO legacy.

• Exhaust: The car breathes through manifolds connected to a dual exhaust system with Flowmaster mufflers, providing that unmistakable muscle car growl.

• Brakes and Steering: Equipped with manual drum brakes on all four corners and power steering, this GTO offers a driving experience that is both authentic to its era and manageable on modern roads.

• Air Conditioning: Factory-installed air conditioning, a rare feature in muscle cars, remains fully functional, providing comfort on warm days.

• Interior and Exterior: Finished in the factory-correct Cameo Ivory White (Code C2) with a contrasting black vinyl top, this GTO exudes classic style. The interior, coded 225, features a striking red color scheme with bucket seats, a center console, and a tilt steering column. The Hurst "His and Hers" dual-gate shifter adds a unique touch, allowing the driver to choose between automatic and manual-style gear changes.

Additional Noteworthy Features

• Factory Hideaway Headlights: The retractable headlight covers are not only a design marvel but also a testament to the innovative spirit of Pontiac during the muscle car wars.

• Wheels and Tires: This GTO rides on new 15-inch American Racing Torq Thrust wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich radial tires, sized 235/60 and 255/60, for a balanced stance and improved grip.

• PHS Documentation: Included with the car is Pontiac Historical Services (PHS) documentation, verifying the originality and factory specifications of the vehicle.

Driving Impressions and Condition

This GTO is reported to run and drive exceptionally well, with the original engine performing smoothly and the Turbo 400 transmission shifting seamlessly. The manual drum brakes, while requiring more pedal effort compared to modern disc brakes, are in excellent working condition, and the power steering provides an easy, controlled driving experience.

The car's undercarriage is described as very solid, with factory undercoating still intact, showing the care and preservation efforts this vehicle has received over the years. The exterior paint, having been resprayed in its original color, along with minor aging on some chrome pieces, gives this GTO a period-correct appearance with a touch of character.

A Classic Car Enthusiast's Dream

This 1968 Pontiac GTO represents a blend of historical significance, authenticity, and driveable performance. It embodies the pinnacle of Pontiac’s engineering prowess during the golden age of muscle cars. For any enthusiast or collector, owning a GTO with such a well-documented history and original features is a rare opportunity to preserve and celebrate a piece of American automotive heritage.

About PC Classic Cars PC Classic Cars is dedicated to celebrating the legacy of classic and collectible vehicles. With a commitment to quality, authenticity, and customer satisfaction, PC Classic Cars offers a curated selection of historically significant automobiles. Their passion for preserving automotive history ensures that every car they showcase is more than just a vehicle—it's a piece of art and a testament to the golden era of motoring.