1964 LIFELONG CALIFORNIA GTO "SURVIVOR" - LO. MI., PHS DOC 4-SPEED, TRI_POWER

Price: - Item location: Pleasanton, California, United States
Description:

1964 Pontiac GTO GTO 4-SPEED, TRI-POWER!



"The Best of the Best"
1964 Pontiac GTO 4-Speed Tri-Power
Factory PHS Documented Factory 4-Speed, Tri-Power, Gauges, Posi-Traction
One of a Handful of Documented 4-Speed Tri-Power Examples
Delivered New In Nearby Los Gatos & Remained a Lifelong Northern California Car
A True ‽Survivor” with the Exception sans One Re-Paint in
Factory Correct Pontiac Nocturne Blue
_________________________________________
HISTORY THIS PARTICULAR GTO
15~ years ago, the GTO was in the personal collection of our owner. It was a car that he had targeted as a "Bucket List" vehicle, and he finally located the right car. This car had everything he was seeking in the first generation Muscle Car that was responsible for the start of the Muscle Car era in the 1960's / early 1970's.
While he thoroughly enjoyed the car for a few years, when we opened our new (current) location 15 years ago, circumstances at that time necessitated the sale of the GTO. However it went to a terrific couple who took incredible care of the car as its 3rd "caregiver." As a result of the untimely passing of Mr. B, Mrs. B. (a drag racer in her day!) approached us, and asked for help selling their "baby." We are honored to help, and to say we are excited to have the car back in our showroom would be an understatement. What a wonderful journey down memory lane!
We were pleased to see the car in virtually the same beautiful condition as when we sold it several years ago. The GTO has only been driven an additional 2,500~ miles, was always garaged, and received the benefit of professional maintenance by a muscle car expert.
The ownership history of the car is well documented with details as follows:
Over the course of its 52 year life, the car has had a total of 3 previous owners. The cars original owner resided in the S.F. Bay area and sold the car to its second caregiver, a Lake Tahoe resident who owned the car until late 1991. When the car had 125K miles, it transferred ownership to Mr. Martinelli, who owned the car from September, 1991 to March, 1998. In March of 1998, the owner of Classic Cars Ltd. acquired the car as his personal vehicle. For 4 years, he drove the GTO completing a number of cosmetic and mechanical improvements and, on January 12, 2002 sold the car to its current owner. At the time of the sale in 2002, the car had 39,468 miles (as documented by the 2002 Bill of Sale, included). When the car came back to Classic Cars Ltd to be sold, it had been driven fewer than 2,500 miles (in 14 years!) with the odometer now showing a reading of 41,536 (141,536). Based on the extensive documentation and vehicle history, every indication is that the car has original mileage of 141,536.
For the buyer that is looking for a first year GTO that remains in virtually stock cosmetic and mechanical condition, this is definitely a car to consider. Many would classify the GTO as a "Survivor” and it certainly checks off most of the correct boxes to qualify for that description. Over the course of its 50~ years, the car has received one re-paint in factory correct Nocturne blue and period style wheels have been added. When we sold the car, our owner had recently changed the aftermarket wheels to the stock rims and installed factory correct red-line tires to give the car a totally stock appearance. Within 500 miles of their purchase, the new owners took the car to the local tire shop and added a brand new set of period style American Racing Torque-Thrust wheels and tires. The original GTO wheels and the tires that were on the GTO when they purchased the car come with the car along with the "spinner” Pontiac GTO optional hubcaps…another interesting bit of history.
Outside of the above changes and mechanical freshening with new service items as needed, the car retains original California rust free sheet metal, interior, engine, and drive-line components. If you're looking for a California "Born & Raised”, classic GTO with incredible history and documentation, this is most certainly a car to consider.
The cars new owner will receive:
- A comprehensive, thick file documenting the car back to the date of delivery
- PHS (Pontiac Historical Society) documentation
- Number matching 389 c.i. / 348 hp Tri-Power engine
- Factory matching M21 transmission & Hurst linkage
- Numbers correct Posi-Traction rear end / 3;55 Gears
- History of the GTO being a lifelong dry, Northern California with limited, long term ownership history (documented)
- Totally solid, dry Northern California car no signs of previous rust / rot with factory panels and correct, original GTO hood
- Based on the build sheet, the car has a number of options, virtually all of which remain on the car, including:
- A02 Tinted glass windshield
- A49 Seat belts front pair
- A50 Bucket seats
- B10 Insert panel
- B30 Carpets front and rear
- B70 Instrument Panel padding covers upper
- B980 Drip Molding Chrome
- B94 Deck Emblems
- D33 O/S Remote Mirror
- F40 Suspension front/rear sp
- G80 Differential Posi-traction
- J65 Metallic brake linings
- K08 Fan H O
- K24 Crankcase Vent
- K45 Air clean/sil
- K66 Distributor Brakerless
- L71 Engine 389 3 carb
- M20 Trans synchromesh 4sp
- N10 Dual exhaust
- T60 Heavy duty battery
- T86 Back up lights
- U05 Dual horns
- U16 Tachometer Assembly
- U40 Lamp parking and brake
- U63 Radio Push button
- U84 Speaker RR Rev Un
Added equipment or upgrades completed approximately 15 years ago were:
- Period style Hooker headers
- Complete custom exhaust by Scotty at Minute Muffler (the premier exhaust shop in the Tri-Valley area)
- New red-line Coker tires (now replaced with new (under 500 miles) BF Goodrich T/A radials
- Stock wheels with mounted red-lines included
- Stock full ‽spinner” wheel covers included
- New dash pad
- Steering wheel restored
- New front engine wiring harness in the style of OEM
THE "NUMBERS”
The GTO carries its original factory VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) affixed to the left front hinge pillar. It decodes as follows:
Car Produced 4/8/64 (484)
VIN # 8/ 2/ 4/ F/ 20234
8 = Cylinder
2 = Series (Tempest LeMans Body) Note: Correct for GTO and
supported by PHS documents
4 = Model Year (1964
F = Assembly Plant Code (Fremont, CA)
Last Digits = Car Serial Number (# 20234)
- Engine Code = 76X (348 hp / 4 speed manual M21)
- Manifold # 541670
- Firewall Stamping (difficult to read) 0110 12
Transmission and differential not checked but reported as original, numbers matching
GTO COSMETIC & MECHANICAL CONDITION
As the old adage goes ‽You can restore a car over and over again, but it is only original once.” This certainly has application to this ‽Survivor” GTO that has spent its entire life in California under the care of loving owners. The car has been very well maintained with a comprehensive file of repair receipts and information dating back for over 25 years. While the information is too lengthy to detail, the documentation consists of ongoing service / replacement of wear items and addressing mechanical issues as they developed. Within the previous 500 miles the car was serviced receiving a service, fluid changes (oil, differential, filters), a rebuilt differential, and other general service work. New tires were also added not as a function of wear, but limited use / age.
Retaining the majority of its major components, the GTO is in the category of increasingly desirable original cars that have become very difficult to locate. Cosmetically, the car shows very well and when it was repainted received the benefit of re-chromed bumpers and other OEM replacement trim. The car shows no rust, very nice older paint, with a straight undercarriage and excellent, rust free floor pans. The trunk retains the factory spare and a proper style Pontiac rear mat and correct spatter paint.
The interior is incredibly original with the GTO retaining its original seats, door panels, carpets, gauges and stock steering wheel. Over the years, some upgrades have been made including a replacement of the padded, optional car that was fitted when the car was delivered new. The interior shows a lovely patina but is free from any major damage, rips or tears and shows quite well for a well preserved '64 GTO. The factory dated optional seat belts remain in place and no aftermarket gauges, speakers or other additions have been made to the car. The glass is excellent, windows roll freely and the factory, fully functional, AM radio is in place.
Mechanically, the GTO is excellent. The strong Tri-Power engine not only runs strong but, what a look! The car starts immediately and the period Hooker headers and larger exhaust give the car a throaty, aggressive sound. The car runs and drives extremely well and offers the performance that resulted in it becoming known as the car that started the Muscle Car Era. The GTO has an excellent clutch that engages properly, brakes that stop the car straight and sure, a working emergency brake, and a fully functional electrical system. Driving the car is a pleasure due to the Hurst linkage 4-speed, Posi-Traction, and powerful Tri-Power engine. The engine does not smoke or leak and the GTO does not exhibit any drivability issues.
This particular GTO is an emotional favorite and a truly wonderful example of a California unmolested muscle car. Not only does it have a totally documented history and incredible originality, it has had long term ownership by those who appreciate very special unique vehicles from the 1960's…including the owner of Classic Cars Ltd!
GTO HISTORY
The scene is Pontiac General Manager Pete Estes's office. The time is early 1963. The man walking through the doorway is Jim Wanger's, Pontiac account executive for MacManus, John and Adams, the Pontiac advertising agency. Wanger's is also an avid performance enthusiast, drag racer and part-time product planner for Pontiac.
"Have you seen the memo, Jim?" Estes asks. "Yeah, no more racing. Why don't those guys tend to their corporate stuff and leave the details to us," Wanger's says. "Look, Pete, with no more racing that means no more Super Duty 421 Catalina's, and that means no more performance image to the young guys who are buying our cars. We've got the image now and I don't want to lose it. Remember, it's the young guys who have pushed us into third place in sales and they're the guys who are keeping us there."
"I know that, Jim. We've got to do something. But what?" Estes asks. "Look, I've got this crazy idea. It may work and it may not. I think we should give it a try," Wanger's says. What's the idea?" "It's just an old hot rodder's trick but I think it could work. An engine swap," Wanger's answers. ‽What?" Estes is puzzled.
"Look," Wanger's goes on, "we've got the new intermediate A-body series coming out in the fall. Our Tempest will be a compact size with a nice 115-in. wheelbase. Instead of offering just the 326 engines, let's drop in the big 389's from the full-size cars, put on some heavy-duty suspension components and call it something with a racing connotation, something like ... GTO--like the Ferraris."
"You're crazy," Estes says. "The GM front office just gave the word. No racing. They'll never go for it." "That's the beauty of it," Wanger's explains. "We won't be racing it and we're not building a race car. We're building a high-performance street machine. There's a big difference. And besides, we don't exactly have to yell about what we're doing. Let them find out after the model is out." "What about the engineering side of it? Will it work?" asks Estes, a former Pontiac chief engineer. "I'm almost positive it'll work, Pete," says Wanger's. "But let's call John and make sure." A call is put through to John DeLorean, Pontiac chief engineer. Estes outlines the plan "Well, what do you think John? Can it be done?" asks Estes. "No sweat," answers DeLorean.
And so, the '64 Pontiac GTO is born.
And with it grows a legend and a whole breed of car that was to completely dominate the automotive industry until the safety, insurance and emissions advocates sounded the super car's death knell in 1971. Those were some cars, those early GTO's. Buyer's recognized it, too. Original production plans called for about 5000 units just to test the market. But by January 1964, hardly into the model year, 10,000 had been sold and dealers were happily compiling waiting lists of performance-happy customers who couldn't wait to get their hands on one.
By the end of the model year, there were 32,450 proud GTO owners. The '64 GTOs had either the standard Bonneville engine--389 cubes, 325 hp with a single 4-barrel Carter AFB, 273/289 camshaft--or the same engine with three 2-barrel Rochester carburetors that raised the output to 348 hp. Other goodies you could order were a 4-speed trans, a brace of rear axle gears, optional suspension stuff on top of the already stiffer standard GTO setup, and all the other comfort, convenience and performance options that had made Pontiac's option list the envy of the Industry.
The year was 1964 and full size cars dominated the early stages of the muscle car era. At GM, corporate policy prohibited any intermediate size car from having engines greater than 330 cid. The engineers at Pontiac had a different idea. They boldly made there 389 cid engines, an option on the midsize Tempest and called the option package GTO, which copied Ferrari's GTO (Gran Turismo Omologato) model.
The GTO package included the 389 V8, quick steering, dual exhaust, and premium tires, a bargain at just $300. The 389 cid engine came with 325bhp with a single 4bbl carb or 348bhp with the optional Tri-Power setup, 3 2bbl carbs. Pontiac hoped to sell 5000 copies they ended up selling 32,450.
The car that was marketed under a Tiger motif but soon became known as the "Goat" would stand the automobile industry on end and lead to a host of imitators. But no one in the mid-sixties would get it together quite like Pontiac.
1964 Production: Sports Coupe: 7,384 Hardtop Coupe: 18,422 Convertible: 6,644 Note: THe combination of 4-speed & Tri-Power representing the rarest of the "Goat's."
Engines: 389 V8 325 bhp @ 4800 rpm, 428 lb-ft. @ 3200 rpm. 389 V8 (3x2) 348 bhp @ 4900 rpm, 428 lb-ft. @ 3200 rpm.
Performance: 389c.i. / 348hp: 0-60 in 6.2 sec, 1/4 mile in 14.6 sec @ 98 mph
MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL INFORMATION
• We have a number of additional, detailed photographs but are only able to show 100~ on our listings. Please let us know if we can provide additional detailed photos of any part of the Mustang. We have a large number of additional photos of virtually every part of the car.
• We have been shipping vehicles for years and have established excellent contacts that are not only high quality but very price competitive. We deal directly with our preferred transport companies; do not utilize terminal shipping, or other discount methods. Call us or email for a quote directly to your home or office.
• In addition to the purchase price of the vehicle, California buyers will be subject to sales tax, documentation fee, DMV transfer fees and license/registration. Out-of-state buyers will be responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle and any local taxes/fees will be the purchaser's responsibility to pay in their respective state. IMPORTANT NOTE: If the vehicle is delivered or driven in California and driven on California roads, sales-tax, license registration and transfer fees will be assessed per California law.
• We encourage telephone calls to discuss this vehicle in greater detail or if you'd like, email your contact information and we will gladly get back in touch with you.
• We make every effort to accurately represent our vehicles, and highlight both positive items as well as areas that require attention. We ask that prospective buyers consider our eBay history/feedback, standing in the community, length of time in business, and other factors when purchasing a collectible vehicle from Classic Cars Ltd.
• Please keep in mind that minor cosmetic issues/flaws are present on virtually every vehicle (regardless of age) including small chips, nicks, scratches, etc. on both the exterior and interior and are part of purchasing a relatively new, used "pre-owned" vehicle. Frankly, often times the photos make the vehicle appear to be in flawless condition and do not show the minor flaws or imperfections that may exist.
• The information contained in this description is believed to be accurate but, in some instances, has been provided by previous owners and/or outside sources. As a result, we are unable to guarantee the accuracy of the information. We encourage verification of any information prior to the purchase of any vehicle that you are considering.
PURCHASING A COLLECTOR VEHICLE - THINGS TO CONSIDER
• As always, we recommend that you carefully review the seller's background of any collector car being sold over the Internet. We believe that it is important to ask yourself a number of questions including, but not limited to:
• How long have they been in business?
• How much experience do they have with collector cars?
• How many positive collector car vehicle sales have completed (positive eBay feedback)?
• How detailed/complete is the description of the vehicle?
• Do the photos show details of the interior, exterior, top, chrome, etc. or are they simply "Glamour Shots" taken from a distance?
• Does the seller have a Surety Bond to protect the financial transaction?
• What about insurance, licensing by the state, and a local business license?
• Does the seller (if a business) have any DMV (Motor Vehicle) complaints and/or other history of legal action, grievances?
• Does the seller enjoy a favorable local and national/international reputation?
• Can the seller assist with funding sources, transport and out of state / country sales?
ABOUT CLASSIC CARS LTD.
• Classic Cars Ltd. has been in the same, small, California town for over 23 years. We operate a small "brick & mortar", indoor showroom, and specialize in the sale, consignment, and purchase of sports, high performance and specialty vehicles of all types. We have a particular interest in sports cars and unique vehicles.
• The large majority of our vehicles come from local, private owners and collectors, and many have a California history. We appreciate that rust free cars, with excellent documentation and history are especially attractive to our buyers both locally, and around the country. As a result, we do not purchase our collectible cars from "distressed" sales, such as wholesale auctions, salvage sales, or lien sales. We do not sell vehicles with salvage titles, or those that have a history of significant accident damage or repair.
• Please review our feedback on eBay (user name Never22Many) representing 900+ positive transactions to buyers all over the United States / World.
• We are fully insured, bonded, and licensed for collector car sales all over the United States/World.
• Classic Cars Ltd. carries a $50,000 Surety bond to cover financial transactions
• We enjoy excellent relationships with a number of transport companies and, as a result, can often times obtain preferred pricing for vehicle shipping. Please give us a call and we will be glad to refer you to suitable transport companies. Needless to say, we would recommend a quality, enclosed transporter that is experience with moving high quality, collectible cars.
• We frequently sell vehicles to out of State / out of country buyers, and will be glad to provide references for buyers in your area in virtually any state or country.
Thank you,
Classic Cars Ltd.
925-846-1451

Specifications:
Body Type / Style:Coupe
Exterior Color:Nocturne Blue
Interior Color:Black
Engine:V8
Transmission: 4 Speed Manual
Mileage:41536
Drive:Rear
Doors:2

Equipment:
"Black Plate" California Car
Amazing Survivor!
American Racing Torque Thrusts
California Lic & Reg
Clean California Body
Custom Headers & Exhaust
Excellent Documentation
Exempt from CA Smog
Factory 4-Speed
Factory AM Radio
Factory Bucket Seats
Factory Dual Exhaust
Front Rubber Mats
Full Instrumentation
Full Instrumentation
Headers
Heater / Defroster
Interior Light
Matching Numbers Engine
No Rust CA. Body
PHS Documented
Power Steering
Repair History
Repair Receipts
Runs / Drives Very Well
SEE DESCRIPTION.....
Tachometer
Tri-Power

Numbers Matching GTO
Factory 4-Speed, Tri-Power
PHS Documented
Complete Ownership History
Lifelong California Car
VERY Original
2 Sets of Wheels Incl Redlines
Nocturne Blue
Very Well Maintained
A Truly Striking Original "GOAT"
Extensive File Included
Also Comes with Stock Wheels
And Red-lines / Full Spinners
Documented Factory Hurst 4-Speed
Decoded in Description
Clean Original
Well Maintained with Documentation
VERY Strong..No Excuses
Extremely Solid CA Car
No Undercarriage Rust Through
4 Wheels & Tires Included
The Car that Started it ALL

Terms & Conditions
  • Buyers outside of California will be responsible for a $195.00 fee for processing/administration. The charge will apply if the vehicle is purchased through ebay or before or after the auction, directly through Classic Cars Ltd.
  • The vehicle is listed for sale elsewhere. We reserve the right to end the auction at anytime. We will be glad to discuss details of a "pre-auction" purchase (925) 846 1451.
  • Inspections of vehicles are encouraged but (by appointment only) must be completed within 24 hours of the end of the auction.
  • Out of state buyers are responsible for the high bid and any shipping costs. California buyers are subject to the appropriate sales tax, DMV transfer, and fees associated with the purchase of any used vehicle sale in the state of California.
  • To avoid shipping the title with the car to our out of state buyers, we mail the title via Priority Mail.
  • While shipping and transportation costs (if appropriate) are the responsibility of the winning bidder, we can assist with locating a suitable transporter. We regularly ship cars all over the USA/World, and can often times locate very competitive rates for transporting vehicles door to door, to a local terminal, enclosed, open, etc. Please call us for specific information/rates to your location.
  • We meet some great people and fellow enthusiasts, and only rarely do we have problems with non-paying bidders. Please be certain that you are prepared to buy the car if you bid, or call us at 925-846-1451 before the end of the auction if we can answer any questions. If you have a "sunglass" rating or fewer than 10 feedback ratings on eBay, please call us before you bid so that we can discuss the bidding process, etc. If we do not hear from you, we reserve the right to delete your bid.

Thank You & Happy Bidding
Classic Cars Ltd.

On Aug-12-16 at 07:01:28 PDT, seller added the following information:

Sellers: Delight buyers. Get your own map of past buyers.