The 1968 Pontiac GTO, one of America’s favorite muscle cars, which was built at Arlington Assembly. The 1968 Pontiac GTO was a big turning point—it marked the start of the second generation GTO and one of the most iconic designs of the muscle car era.
What Changed in 1968
All-new body: The GTO moved to GM’s new A-body platform (shared with Chevelle, Cutlass, Skylark).
Styling:
- Shorter wheelbase (112″ for coupes/convertibles).
- Long hood, short deck proportions.
- Curvier “Coke-bottle” shape with hidden headlights optional.
- Endura front bumper (body-colored polyurethane) — a Pontiac innovation. It could take a hammer hit without denting, giving the GTO a clean, bumper-less look.
Standalone model: Since 1966, the GTO was no longer just a Tempest/LeMans package—it had its own distinct model identity.
Engines & Performance
Standard Engine:
- 400 cu in V8, 350 hp (4-barrel carb).
Options:
- 400 HO (360 hp).
- 400 Ram Air (360 hp with better breathing).
- 400 Ram Air II (rare, 366 hp, high-lift cam, round-port heads).
Transmissions:
- 3-speed manual (standard).
- 4-speed manual (Hurst shifter).
- Turbo Hydra-Matic 3-speed automatic.
Performance Example (Ram Air II, 4-speed):
- 0–60 mph in about 6.2 seconds.
- Quarter mile in ~14.4 sec @ 100+ mph.
Features
- Endura bumper standard (chrome bumper optional late in production).
- Rally II wheels, hood tachometer, and wood-grain interior trim available.
- Convertible, hardtop, and coupe body styles.
1968 Production Numbers
Total: 87,684 GTOs built
- 9,980 Convertibles
- 24,811 Coupes (post coupe, with pillar)
- 52,893 Hardtop Coupes (pillarless, most popular)
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