The 1968 Pontiac GTO launched the model’s second generation, establishing a cleaner, more fluid design that defined the muscle car era. This particular example, a 1968 Pontiac GTO Coupe, comes from the heart of the muscle car movement with a great ownership history. It was sold new in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, and has been well-preserved and documented over the decades. This 1968 Pontiac GTO Coupe was restored in the early 2000s and retains key original specifications.
Exterior Presentation and Restoration
The coupe is finished in the attractive Alpine Blue exterior color. The restoration work, completed in the early 2000s, ensured that the car’s aggressive styling was well maintained. The styling for 1968 was marked by the iconic Endura front bumper, which gave the GTO a smooth, unique look. The GTO’s distinctive hood scoops are present, signifying the power beneath. The Alpine Blue paint provides a classic, era-appropriate finish.
Documented Ownership History
This GTO boasts exceptional documentation, adding significant value and transparency to its history. The car comes with its original window sticker, providing an important factory reference point. The original purchase order and retail sales agreement are also included in the sale. Records and receipts exist, dating all the way back to 1969. This extensive paperwork traces the car’s life from new. The second owner acquired the vehicle in 1996.
Power from the YS-Suffix V-8
Under the hood sits the legendary YS-suffix 400 CI V-8 engine. The 400 CI V-8 was the heart of the GTO, providing impressive torque and horsepower. This engine block carries the correct casting code 9790071, indicating proper factory equipment. The cylinder heads also bear the correct casting code 16. Furthermore, the original cylinder heads and intake manifold remain with the engine. The odometer currently reads approximately 74,900 miles.
Transmission and Shifting Experience
The 400 CI V-8 is paired with an automatic transmission. This choice offers a blend of performance and comfortable operation for street use. The car is equipped with the highly desirable dual gate shifter, often referred to as a “His and Hers” shifter. This system allows the driver to choose between standard automatic operation or manual shifting through the gears. The dual gate mechanism adds a fun, sporting element to the driving experience.
Classic Interior and Equipment
The cabin features a classic, performance-oriented Black interior. The color is functional and perfectly contrasts the bright Alpine Blue exterior. The GTO interior focused on driver enjoyment, featuring bucket seats and a clean dashboard layout. While specific interior equipment is not detailed, the dual gate shifter dominates the console. The Black interior maintains a factory-correct aesthetic. The whole cabin feels authentic to the muscle car period.
The Second Generation Design
The 1968 model introduced the swooping fastback roofline and concealed windshield wipers. These styling changes were key to the GTO’s success. The car represented a significant modernization over the first generation’s boxier shape. This design update kept the GTO relevant and visually striking in a rapidly evolving market. The overall look is considered a high point for American automotive styling.
Power, Engine Specs, and Performance
This 1968 Pontiac GTO Coupe is powered by its authentic YS-suffix 400 CI V-8 engine. The large-displacement V-8 provides the massive torque necessary for swift acceleration. The power is managed by a reliable automatic transmission paired with the famous dual gate shifter. While specific horsepower numbers are not listed, the 400 CI V-8 delivered thrilling, raw performance that defined the muscle car era. This combination offers a smooth yet potent driving dynamic.
Summary of the 1968 Pontiac GTO Coupe
This 1968 Pontiac GTO Coupe is a well-restored, highly documented example of a true American performance icon. It features the correct YS-suffix 400 CI V-8 engine and a convenient automatic transmission with the dual gate shifter. Finished in Alpine Blue over Black, the car presents beautifully and comes with irreplaceable documentation, including its original window sticker. This GTO, Lot H521, represents a fantastic piece of muscle car history crossing the block at Kissimmee 2026.
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Source: mecum.com
