This 1964 Pontiac GTO Hardtop represents a significant piece of American muscle car history. Produced in April 1964 at the GM assembly plant in Kansas City, Missouri, it was originally delivered to Galen Boyer Motors in Independence, Missouri. After spending approximately four decades in storage in Cincinnati, Ohio, this GTO underwent a meticulous body-off refurbishment completed in 2022 by Ohio Muscle Car. The restoration brought new life to its 389ci V8 engine with the desirable Tri-Power carburetion and a four-speed manual transmission, alongside cosmetic and mechanical upgrades.
Powerful 389ci V8 with Tri-Power Induction
At the heart of this GTO is its original 389ci V8 engine equipped with a Tri-Power induction system, featuring three Rochester two-barrel carburetors for enhanced power and performance. The engine received a complete overhaul during the restoration, which included a Ram Air IV-spec camshaft, and it has been repainted in Pontiac blue with chrome valve covers. The engine sits in a pristine satin black engine bay, with the signature Tri-Power carburetors topped by chrome air filters. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a Muncie M20 wide-ratio four-speed manual transmission and a Safe-T-Track rear axle with a 3.23:1 final gear ratio.
Refined in Marimba Red
The exterior of this GTO was refinished in its factory-correct Marimba Red during the refurbishment, enhancing its classic muscle car appearance. The exterior is accented by iconic GTO features such as dual hood scoops, quad headlights, a nickel-plated grille, and chrome bumpers. The car also features bright window trim, wheel opening moldings, and rocker-panel trim, giving it a timeless yet striking look. All the front, side, and rear window glass has been replaced to ensure clarity and quality.
Elegant Interior with Classic Features
Inside, the GTO’s interior is reupholstered in parchment vinyl, including the front bucket and rear bench seats. The black carpeting contrasts with the color-coordinated lower dash and parchment headliner. The woodgrain steering wheel and engine-turned aluminum instrument panel house a 120-mph speedometer, tachometer, and gauges for fuel level, oil pressure, and coolant temperature. A Hurst white-knob shifter and the original Delco AM radio add to the authenticity of the driving experience. With only 12 miles driven since the completion of its restoration, the true mileage of the car remains unknown.
Performance-Oriented Suspension and Braking
This GTO sits on 14-inch reproduction Hurst wheels wrapped in US Royal Safety 800 red-stripe tires, staying true to its original styling. Drum brakes at all four corners provide the stopping power. Underneath, the car features a Gardner dual exhaust system, ensuring it sounds as good as it looks. The polished fuel tank and rear suspension updates complete the comprehensive mechanical refurbishment.
Documented Provenance
This GTO comes with a wealth of documentation that includes an owner’s manual, PHS Automotive Services documentation, service records, and a copy of a GTOAA Nationals Concours Gold Award earned in 2022. Additionally, a 1964 GTO license plate and other factory documents provide further proof of this car’s authenticity and attention to detail during restoration.
Highlights of the 1964 Pontiac GTO Hardtop
- 389ci V8 with Tri-Power induction (three Rochester carburetors)
- Muncie M20 wide-ratio four-speed manual transmission
- Safe-T-Track rear axle with 3.23:1 final gear ratio
- Marimba Red exterior with parchment vinyl interior
- Hurst floor shifter with white knob
- Gardner dual exhaust system
- Fully restored, including replaced glass and reupholstered seats
- Documentation includes PHS papers, service records, and GTOAA Gold Award
Source: bringatrailer.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt