This 1969 Pontiac GTO, a rare and highly desirable Ram Air IV model, represents the pinnacle of Pontiac’s muscle car era. Recently completed a frame-off restoration by Barr’s Classic Restoration in October 2024, this GTO is a testament to the power and performance of the legendary Ram Air IV engine. Being one of only 549 Ram Air IV GTOs produced in 1969 with a manual transmission, this GTO is a true collector’s item.
Ram Air Power: The GTO’s Performance Engine: The heart of this 1969 GTO is a rebuilt WW code 400/370 horsepower Ram Air IV V-8 engine, originally from a 1969 Judge. This engine, a high-performance variant of the 400 cubic inch V-8, is known for its exceptional power and torque. Updated with hardened valve seats and new gaskets from Jim Butler Performance, this engine is built to handle modern driving conditions. The rebuilt and replated carburetor by Ray Klemm, updated with ethanol-compatible parts, ensures optimal fuel delivery. This combination of high-performance components makes the GTO a formidable muscle car.
Four-Speed Fury: The GTO’s Drivetrain: Power is routed to the rear wheels through a rebuilt M21 close ratio 4-speed manual transmission, built in February 1969. An NOS Hurst shifter provides precise and engaging gear changes. A new Centerforce clutch ensures smooth and reliable power transfer. A Saf-T-Track 3.55 geared differential, housed in a nodular axle, provides optimal traction. A new factory correct set of 4.33 gears is also included for those seeking even more aggressive acceleration.
Restored to Perfection: The GTO’s Condition: This 1969 GTO has undergone a meticulous frame-off restoration, completed in October 2024. The restoration process is documented, providing assurance of the car’s quality. The car features new correctly coded and dated glass, a chrome driver’s side mirror, and Rally II wheels with mid-March 1969 build dates. Redline tires and a Gardner exhaust system complete the car’s classic muscle car look.
Classic Muscle Interior: The GTO’s Amenities: The interior of this 1969 GTO features a custom sports steering wheel and Rally gauges and cluster, providing a driver-focused cockpit. A pushbutton AM/FM radio with Reverberator offers period-correct entertainment. The car was built during the 4th week of March 1969 and shipped on April 17, 1969, to the W.W. Waterhouse dealer in Corry, Pennsylvania.
A Muscle Car Legend: The GTO’s Legacy: The 1969 Pontiac GTO Ram Air IV is a highly sought-after muscle car, representing the pinnacle of Pontiac’s performance engineering. This example, with its recent frame-off restoration and documented history, is a rare and desirable opportunity to own a piece of automotive history. It is important to note that this vehicle has a rebuilt title branding.
Summary:
- 1969 Pontiac GTO Ram Air IV: A rare and desirable muscle car.
- Rebuilt 400/370 horsepower Ram Air IV V-8 engine.
- Rebuilt M21 close ratio 4-speed manual transmission.
- Frame-off restoration completed in October 2024.
- Rally II wheels and redline tires.
- Rebuilt title branding.
- One of only 549 Ram Air IV GTOs produced with a manual transmission.
Disclaimer: Specifications and features are based on available information and are subject to change. Consult automotive historical resources for precise details. Rebuilt title branding.
Source: mecum.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
