Full details & bid : bringatrailer.com
This striking 1968 Pontiac GTO convertible, presented in a desirable triple-black configuration, has been under the care of the current seller since 1983 and again from 2002, during which time it has undergone multiple refurbishments spanning four decades. A replacement 400ci V8 engine, now equipped with a Holley carburetor and an Edelbrock intake manifold, provides the power, which is channeled through a robust three-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle’s stance is enhanced by 18″ Colorado Custom wheels, and it features power steering for improved handling. An MSD ignition system has been installed for enhanced performance, along with long-tube headers feeding into a dual exhaust system. The iconic twin-scoop hood and a sleek black boot cover add to its classic muscle car aesthetics. Braking is managed by power-assisted drum brakes at all four corners. Inside, the cabin is trimmed in black vinyl upholstery and boasts a Hurst shifter mounted on a center console, complemented by modern carbon-look dashboard trim and a Pioneer touchscreen receiver offering digital instrumentation capabilities. This GTO convertible is offered at no reserve, accompanied by service records and a Michigan title held in the seller’s name.
During a comprehensive refurbishment in 2005, the GTO’s bodywork was addressed, and various components were replaced before the car was refinished in a deep black hue. Exterior features include a replacement power-operated black soft top, a seamlessly integrated color-keyed Endura front bumper, the aforementioned black boot cover, a distinctive twin-scoop hood, a hood-mounted tachometer for a touch of vintage performance flair, and dual exhaust outlets. It is noted that the convertible top requires assistance when closing, and the retractable headlight covers are currently non-functional. Imperfections such as a scratch on the windshield and paint bubbles on the decklid seam are detailed in the accompanying photo gallery.
The GTO rides on eye-catching 18″ Colorado Custom wheels fitted with Hankook Ventus V12 tires, providing a modern touch to the classic design. The inclusion of power steering ensures a more effortless driving experience, and a front sway bar contributes to improved handling and stability. According to the seller, the front suspension underwent an overhaul in 2008, and the tires and brake booster were replaced more recently in 2022, indicating ongoing maintenance. Braking duties are handled by power-assisted drum brakes on both the front and rear axles.
Inside the black vinyl-trimmed cabin, the front bucket seats and rear bench provide comfortable seating. Aftermarket carbon-look trim accents the dashboard, adding a contemporary sporty feel. Equipment includes a Hurst T-handle shifter, a Pioneer touchscreen head unit serving as the infotainment center, a JBL amplifier mounted in the trunk to power aftermarket speakers, and a convenient center armrest. It’s worth noting that a crack is present in the dashboard, and some wear is visible on various cabin materials, as shown in the gallery.
The padded steering wheel frames a carbon-look gauge bezel, although the instrumentation within is currently nonfunctional. The odometer displays a reading of 67k miles, but it is also nonfunctional, and the seller reports having added approximately 5k miles during their ownership. However, the Pioneer head unit offers the capability to display supplementary digital instrumentation, providing some operational information to the driver. The true total mileage of the vehicle is unknown.
Power and Performance: The replacement YS-code 400ci V8 engine, sourced from another 1968 model-year vehicle, was reportedly rebuilt in 2005. Further engine work in 2008 included the disassembly and resurfacing of the cylinder heads. The engine is now equipped with an Edelbrock intake manifold, a Holley carburetor for enhanced fuel delivery, a high-torque starter for reliable ignition, and MSD ignition components for optimized spark. Under the current ownership, the fuel tank has been replaced, and the heater core has been bypassed. This setup suggests a focus on robust performance from the classic Pontiac V8.
Photographic documentation of drivetrain stamps and casting numbers is available for review in the gallery.
Power from the upgraded V8 engine is transmitted to the rear wheels via a durable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. Long-tube exhaust headers facilitate improved exhaust flow, leading to a dual exhaust system equipped with Flowmaster mufflers, which likely provide a deep and resonant exhaust note. The seller has noted a fluid drip occurring after extended periods of storage, and some corrosion is visible on exhaust system components.
Decoding the trim tag provides valuable information about the GTO’s original specifications: “11B” indicates a production date in the second week of November. The style code “68-24267” identifies it as a 1968 GTO convertible. The body code “PON 451” signifies it was assembled in Pontiac, Michigan, with a specific production sequence number. The trim code “223” denotes black vinyl upholstery. The paint code “R-2” originally specified a Solar Red exterior finish with a black soft top, although the car has since been refinished in black.
Photos documenting the refurbishment process are included in the gallery for interested parties to review. The current Michigan title is a duplicate.
Summary:
- 1968 Pontiac GTO convertible in triple-black configuration.
- Replacement 400ci V8 engine with Holley carburetor and Edelbrock intake.
- Three-speed automatic transmission.
- 18″ Colorado Custom wheels with Hankook tires.
- Power steering and front sway bar.
- MSD ignition and long-tube headers with dual Flowmaster exhaust.
- Black vinyl interior with Hurst shifter and Pioneer touchscreen.
- Refurbished body and paint in black (originally Solar Red).
- Power-operated black soft top.
- Offered at no reserve with service records and a Michigan title.
**Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle.
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