This 1965 Pontiac GTO hardtop coupe is a remarkable piece of automotive history, a one-owner car that has been cherished and maintained since it was purchased new from Sprague Pontiac of Chandler, Oklahoma. Having journeyed across the United States, from Oklahoma to Washington D.C., Texas, Ohio, and California, this GTO finally resides in Florida, where it has reportedly been kept in climate-controlled storage since 2014. This GTO, repainted in its original Burgundy color and boasting a rebuilt 389ci V8 engine, offers a unique opportunity to own a well-documented and lovingly preserved example of America’s original muscle car.
This 1965 Pontiac GTO, finished in its factory-correct Burgundy (N), retains the classic styling that made it an instant icon. The car received dent and rust repairs in 1987 before being repainted with DuPont lacquer basecoat and urethane clearcoat, a testament to the owner’s commitment to preserving the car’s appearance. Exterior details, such as stacked headlights, a hood scoop, a driver-side mirror, reverse lights, and chrome bumpers, window surrounds, and trim, are all present and accounted for. Some rust around the rear window and other imperfections are noted and pictured in the gallery, offering transparency to potential buyers.
The car rides on 14″ steel wheels with Pontiac Motor Division styled covers, a period-correct and stylish choice. Power steering makes maneuvering this classic muscle car a breeze, while braking is handled by drums at each corner. The power steering pump was rebuilt in 1987, ensuring reliable operation.
The cabin of this GTO is a testament to its originality and well-maintained condition. Front bucket seats and a rear bench are upholstered in black vinyl, a classic and durable choice. The color-coordinated dashboard, door panels, and carpeting complete the interior’s authentic look. Amenities include a center console, a Hurst shifter for precise gear changes, a padded dashboard, a Delco AM radio for a touch of nostalgia, a rear-seat speaker, front seatbelts for safety, and courtesy lamps. It’s worth noting that the air conditioning and turn signals are not currently functional, the front speaker has been removed, and the passenger-side seatbelt does not retract.
The woodgrain-rimmed steering wheel frames a 120-mph speedometer, an 8,000-rpm tachometer, and gauges for fuel level, water temperature, and oil pressure. The five-digit odometer shows 85,000 miles, but it is noted that it has rolled over once, which occurred in June 1973.
The heart of this GTO is its WT-code 389ci V8 engine, which was factory rated at 335 horsepower and 431 lb-ft of torque. The engine was rebuilt in 1987, with replacement of the bearings, rings, and valve guides. The carburetor was overhauled in 2023, and the fuel pump was replaced in 2024, demonstrating recent attention to mechanical maintenance. The engine stamping matches a sequence documented on the accompanying Protect-O-Plate, adding to the car’s provenance.
Power is routed to the rear wheels through a synchronized three-speed manual transmission and a Safe-T-Track limited-slip differential, offering a classic and engaging driving experience. The owner states that in September 1970, the oil pan, oil pump, flywheel cover, driveshaft, and frame cross member were replaced after the car hit a rock on the highway during a Colorado snowstorm; this work is noted in an accompanying repair log. The vehicle was undercoated in 1974, although some corrosion is visible on underbody components.
Decoding the Fisher trim tag provides further details about the car’s original specifications, including production date, body style, interior trim, paint color, options, and more. The Car Shipping Record lists detailed pricing information and delivery to Sprague Pontiac. The accompanying owner’s manual, shop manual, and service and lubrication logs provide a comprehensive history of the car’s maintenance. This one-owner 1965 Pontiac GTO is a truly special find, a well-documented and lovingly maintained example of a true American classic.
Summary/Specs List:
- Model: 1965 Pontiac GTO Hardtop
- Mileage: 85,000 miles (rolled over once)
- Engine: 389ci V8 (rebuilt)
- Transmission: 3-speed manual
- Exterior Color: Burgundy (original)
- Interior Color: Black vinyl
- Features: Power steering, Limited-slip differential, Center console, Hurst shifter, AM radio
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation for any specific vehicle. For more information on this specific car, you can reach out to the seller.
Source: bringatrailer.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
