General Intoduction: Since 2003, Pontiac GTO has been manufactured by GM Holden in Australia. But GM was not the original producer of this muscle vehicle. Pontiac originally built this car from 1964 through 1974.
But, there are several big differences betwen each of these maker's versions of Pontiac GTO. The biggest difference is - GM's Pontiac GTO is a left-hand drive Monaro - a coupe version of Holden's Commodore, while the earlier Pontiac version was a close cousin of Pontiac Tempest for the majority of its lifespan and to Pontiac's Ventura more recently.
First Generation Models: GTO has undergone a few evolutionary stages in its lifetime in nearly every aspect of proportion and styling. The original Pontiac GTO of '64 was an optional package of the line's LeMans, offered in 2-door sedan style, hardtop coupe, or topless versions. Until 1968, there were a few variants to this design available. Any of these versions may be termed 'first generation GTO's.'
Second Generation Models: Second generation GTO's originated with General Motors. GM revamped its A-line styling in '68, offering a curvier, 'bustleback' fastback design. The body-color front bumper of the Endura was a unique feature of this model. It was engineered to absorb impact without lasting damage at reduced speeds. These second generation cars were on the market until '72, with minimal differences in every model.
Final Models: The latter versions emerged from that point forward. The '73 GTO cars had the same re-surfaced A-lines with Colonnade style hardtop, which deviated from genuine hardtop construction with the inclusion of a roof pillar, yet kept the frameless door design. Now the back side window panels were designed not to open, and were pyramidal in shape.
First-generation GTO enthusiasts regarded it as sacrilege for an automobile manufacturer from Japan to appropriate it. These versions were on the market with minor variations until '99. But, their popularity appears to be steadily waning due to the outdated motor technology, even in the latest versions. This has caused Pontiac GTO to have some difficult times. The dawn of the new millennium was ripe for the return of this terrific model frequently termed, “The first true muscle car.”
Revival of Pontiac GTO: None other than an American audience would have been ideal for the new release of this classic car, being the birthplace of the auto industry. Founded on the framework of Holden Monaro's V, the Pontiac GTO had its American new release in the latter part of 2003. Monaro is a twin-door variation of the Aussie-designed VT/VX Holden Commodore. The Commodore was, itself, engineered by expanding the Euro-styled '94 Opel Omega B, which sold in its earliest incarnation in America from '97 until '01 as Cadillac's Catera.
In addition, Pontiac GTO risked its luck with the sportier versions of '05 and '06. In spite of wild anticipation from auto giant GM, Pontiac GTO's sportier versions haven't been a tale of good fortune. Again, reviewers criticize that these cars lack sufficiently potent motors to back up their claim as the new millennium's sports vehicles.
Critics On Pontiac's GTO: From the moment the earliest GTO rolled out of the showroom, reviewers have been underwhelmed with these cars. The majority of them assert that the blocks aren't the most innovative of their day. Some reviewers actually asserted that any GTO versions are half a decade outdated in technological terms in comparison to their rivals.
Notwithstanding these complaints, Pontiac's GTO is a genuine success, evidenced by its endurance for over 35 years. And, the prospects appear sunny for this car, as fresh markets are emerging for editions like the Pontiac GTO.
Today, Pontiac GTO is taking a shot 'down under,' offering over 6 versions in Australia. The colors of the GTO's models are one of its most exciting features. Each year GTO introduces at least 2 or 3 more colors, hoping to attract younger drivers to its models.
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