1967 Pontiac GTO

The Pontiac GTO was Pontiac's first true entry into the muscle car market. Based on the midsize Tempest, the Pontiac GTO's design was crafted in part by John Delorean, Bill Collins, and Russ Gee. The trio skirted some controversy by implementing the production of the GTO in 1963 despite a new GM policy that banned cars produced in the vein of auto racing. The 1967 Pontiac GTO was the last Pontiac GTO in the first generation of the car.

Priced at around $3,000-$4,500, the 1964 Pontiac GTO included an optional 389 CID V8 engine capable of 325 horsepower and dual exhaust. The GTO (which stands for Gran Turismo Omolgato) also was one of the first muscle cars to be sold with a number of visual upgrades, including a hood scoop and chromed valve covers. By 1966, due to the muscle car's overwhelming popularity, the Pontiac GTO was distinguished as its own line of car. Another remarkable upgrade that the 1966 Pontiac GTO added were bucket seats, a nod to the increased popularity of street racing and muscle car culture.

The 1967 Pontiac GTO had several changes in its construction that heralded a new trend in muscle car manufacturing. The popular 389 and Tri-Power engine that had been so characteristic of the early 60s muscle car was replaced by the larger 400-cid V8 engine. Though the previous year's GTO sold more units, the 1967 Pontiac GTO still managed to sell over 81,000 units.

The second generation of the GTO produced some of the most versions of the car, including the much revered 1969 Pontiac GTO Judge. Primarily manufactured in a "carousel" red and equipped with a rear spoiler, the Judge was the ultimate performance upgrade for Pontiac enthusiasts. Today, the Pontiac GTO is still popular, and is one of the most widely shown muscle cars at muscle car shows.