1966 Pontiac GTO

Pontiac produced just a few units shy of 97,000 GTOs in 1966, but only 10.7 percent of them —10,363 — were based on the lighter Sport Coupe pillared body style. This is one of them, verified by PHS documentation and the “242” code at the start of the Vehicle Identification Number (1966 was the first year for the GTO as a separate model series that was identifiable in the VIN).

This rare 1966 Pontiac GTO has been restored and is powered by what is believed to be the original 389-cu.in. V-8 engine, but upgraded to the iconic Tri-Power induction system. A number of additional changes and enhancements have been made, including a change from the original column-shifted three-speed manual to a four-on-the-floor arrangement, four-wheel disc brakes, a color change to Blue Charcoal, an upgraded electrical system, a modern air-conditioning system and more.

EXTERIOR

According to the seller, the body was straightened and new sheet metal, where needed, relieved it of rust. Per the “H” code on the cowl-mounted body ID tag, this GTO was originally painted Palmetto Green, but the color was changed to Blue Charcoal, which is another factory color. The paintwork, done in 2014 according to the seller, appears to be in very good condition. There is also one reported dent in the body. Additionally, the bright trim appears in very good condition and there are no reported nicks or scratches in the glass. The exterior appearance is complemented by a set of polished 15-inch American Racing wheels.

INTERIOR

The interior was restored, according to the seller, to the original black vinyl trim, which includes the carpet, seat covers, door panels, headliner and dash pad. The seller notes a crack in the original plastic panel of the dashboard, below the ignition key switch. The car has bucket seats and a console (with Pontiac’s vacuum gauge), and all of the instruments have reportedly been restored, including the factory Rally gauges. The woodgrain-look of the instrument panel appears original and shows some wear, while the vintage AM/FM radio has been internally upgraded with modern technology. There are no apparent cracks in the steering wheel, but it shows some visible wear.

A modern air-conditioning system from Vintage Air has also been incorporated in the interior. The installation includes original-style ball vents, as well as original lap vents, in order to maintain a factory interior appearance. The car’s entire electrical system was rewired with an American Auto Wire kit made specifically for the GTO. The system includes a fuse box with modern blade-style fuses.

https://www.hemmings.com/auction/1966-pontiac-gto-3