1967 Pontiac GTO Convertible: The Iconic Muscle Car That Defined a Generation
The Pontiac GTO is one of the most iconic American muscle cars ever made. The 1967 GTO Convertible in particular has become a coveted collector’s item due to its stunning looks, powerful performance, and cultural significance. This classic car defined the muscle car era and inspired a generation of gearheads.
Brief History of the GTO
The Pontiac GTO was an option package for the Pontiac Tempest that turned the regular production car into a muscle car. Pontiac engineer Russell Gee first had the idea to put a large V8 engine into an intermediate-sized car.
The GTO option package became available in 1964 and consisted of a 389 cubic inch V8 engine producing 325 horsepower, dual exhaust, heavy duty suspension, three-speed floor shift manual transmission, and other performance upgrades. The name GTO came from the Ferrari 250 GTO race car, giving the Pontiac model an aura of European racing heritage.
The 1964 GTO was an instant hit and is considered the first true muscle car. Pontiac made the GTO its own separate model line starting in 1966. The 1967 GTO continued the formula that made it a success, offering big block V8 engines ranging from the 335 horsepower 400 cubic inch motor up to the 360 horsepower 428.
Bold Exterior Styling
The 1967 Pontiac GTO Convertible turned heads thanks to its coke-bottle styling and aggressive stance. The split grille gave it an assertive face while the integrated rear bumper emphasized its wide, low proportions.
Customers could choose either a manual or power convertible top. With the top down, the GTO exuded cool sixties style. There were also a variety of cool exterior options like “The Judge” tape stripes meant to evoke race cars.
The curvy bodywork helped make the 1967 GTO one of the best looking muscle cars of the era. It had an aura of danger and excitement that perfectly captured the rebellious attitude of Sixties youth culture. The GTO’s design inspired many imitators, cementing its status as a classic.
Formidable Performance
Under the hood, the 1967 Pontiac GTO was a powerhouse. The standard engine was a 400 cubic inch V8 generating 335 horsepower and 428 ft-lbs of torque. For serious power, buyers could opt for the 360 horsepower 428.
Matched to a 3-speed manual or optional 4-speed Muncie “rock crusher,” the GTO was a seriously quick car for the time. Car and Driver recorded a 0-60 mph time of just 6.6 seconds for the 400 engine. Few cars could match it in a straight line or winding back road.
The GTO was competitive on the track too. The suspension upgrades made it capable through corners, complementing the straight-line power. While not as refined as European sports cars, the GTO had the muscle to blow most cars away from stoplight to stoplight.
Comfort and Convenience
While all about performance, the 1967 GTO Convertible still provided some comfort and convenience. The interior featuredbucket seats flanking a floor-mounted shifter. The Strato bucket seats were supportive during aggressive driving but comfortable for daily driving too.
The convertible top went up and down easily, allowing open air fun when desired. When closed, the padded top helped make the interior more quiet. Conveniences like power steering and brakes, AM radio, and air conditioning were also available to make the GTO reasonably well-equipped.
Pontiac offered a full range of colors to customize the interior and exterior. Popular hues were Carousel Red and Tiger Gold that perfectly matched the extroverted personality of the GTO. The interior also featured a Rally gauge cluster to monitor engine rpm and other functions.
Cultural Impact
When it debuted, the 1964 Pontiac GTO created a new niche of affordable, youth oriented muscle cars. As the Sixties progressed, the GTO became the car to have for rebellious kids and stoplight racers.
The 1967 model cemented its status as a cultural icon. It had the perfect blend of outrageous power and Hollywood good looks. The GTO Convertible in particular emphasized the fun lifestyle embodied by the car.
Muscle car films like “Vanishing Point” featured GTOs as wild freedom machines. Pop songs celebrated the excitement of GTOs and other fast cars. The Pontiac GTO came to represent the excitement and optimism of a generation.
Collector Interest
Thanks to its striking styling, performance credentials, and iconic status, the 1967 Pontiac GTO Convertible remains highly sought after today. The car’s build quality was relatively high for the era, helping examples survive. Restored or all-original GTO convertibles command high prices at auctions and private sales.
Low production numbers also make any ’67 GTO valued by collectors. Only 8,129 convertible models were produced out of 81,722 total GTOs for 1967. Of those, very few remain in excellent condition. Prices fluctuate but expect to pay $50,000 and up for a quality ’67 GTO convertible.
The car’s historic status ensures it will always be considered a blue-chip muscle car. Any 1967 GTO, coupe or convertible, represents an important part of American automotive history. For collectors and enthusiasts, the GTO perfectly captures the spirit of the Sixties.
Legacy
The 1967 Pontiac GTO Convertible cemented the model’s reputation as the defining muscle car. Its combination of design, performance, and cultural impact hasn’t been duplicated since. More than just a cool car, the ’67 GTO represents a pivotal time in American history and popular culture.
Later muscle cars like the Dodge Challenger and Chevrolet Camaro owe a debt to the pioneering GTO. Muscle cars remain popular with collectors and hot rodders to this day. The GTO started the craze for accessible, fast cars that continues now.
Any 1967 Pontiac GTO, including convertible and hardtop models, is considered an automotive icon. The car’s potent V8 performance, sensuous Coke bottle styling, and embodiment of Sixties cool guarantee its lasting legacy. The GTO Convertible in particular stands out as the ultimate expression of this legendary machine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What engine options were available on the 1967 GTO Convertible?
The standard engine was a 400 cubic inch (6.5 liter) V8 producing 335 horsepower. Optional was a 360 horsepower 428 cubic inch (7.0 liter) V8.
How many 1967 GTO Convertibles were produced?
Only 8,129 convertible GTOs were made out of 81,722 total GTO production for 1967. This makes the ’67 GTO convertible a rare find today.
What transmission options were offered?
A three-speed manual transmission was standard. Optional was a Muncie 4-speed close-ratio manual transmission or a 2-speed automatic transmission.
How much does a 1967 GTO Convertible cost today?
Fully restored examples can sell for over $100,000 at auction. Nice driver-quality cars still command $50,000 or more. Prices vary widely based on condition, documentation, and options.
Was the 1967 GTO in any famous movies or songs?
The ’67 GTO appeared in movies like Vanishing Point and Fast Times at Ridgemont High. It was mentioned in songs including “Fun, Fun, Fun” by The Beach Boys and “GTO” by Ronny & The Daytonas.
