Date Posted:10:50:49 01/22/03 Wed Author:American Muscle Subject: Re: 'American icon' In reply to:
Monaro/GTO
's message, "Re: 'American icon'" on 03:48:03 09/10/02 Tue
Most of you are missing the point. The new GTO styling looks a tad plain for the simple reason that it takes quite a bit of time to certify any changes in styling such as hood scoops, duel exhaust etc... Pontiac wanted to get this car out for the 2004 model year to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the GTO. The 2005 car will include far more of what you all had "hoped" for, mark my words.
As far as excitement? 340hp LS1, T56 6 speed, RWD in a car that is quite a bit lighter than the Corvette and 15 grand cheaper... I’m excited. The only car manufactured today that even comes close at the same price range is the SVT Cobra Mustang. Ford is not stifled by the (“Nothing is allowed to compete with the Corvette”) mindset that GM instituted way back in 1967 when tri- power was no longer allowed on any car other than the Corvette. Believe me, this Holden has a GTX version in AU that is producing over 400hp! When SLP or the like get their hands on it we will see what this GTO’s potential is. Lets not forget, most first generation GTO owners took their new GTO to speed shops like Royal Pontiac and had them tuned up. I see no reason why that will not be the case 40 years later. So slow down with the knee jerk reactions and get ready for the ride of your life.
In a final note calling the GTO an “import” is a tad of a stretch! Sure its made in AU, But Holden is a division of GM and in a sad testament of the truth, they have a far better quality control program that any US auto maker. As a result we may actually see a better manufactured vehicle from this GM division. If this program is a success, the car will eventually be moved over to US plants. Tooling up for a new model takes years. Like I said before, Pontiac wanted to get this car out for the 2004 model year to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the GTO.
How many think that anyone found the 1964 Tempest an exciting body style? Hey, the GTO legacy is a bigger than standard motor dropped into a run of the mill midsized sedan, which is exactly what we are seeing today.
