1966 Pontiac Tempest Coupe 326 V8 Automatic Classic Vintage Collector

There are a couple of ways to look at this ultra-clean 1966 Pontiac Tempest hardtop. On the one hand, it's a very affordable way to get some Pontiac muscle and most folks will mistake it for an expensive GTO. On the other, maybe it's the foundation for something truly spectacular because while it does need some TLC, it doesn't need any major surgery. We're always heartened to see a Pontiac Tempest or Le Mans still wearing their... original badges and not dressed up like fake GTOs. There's no shame in being what you are, and a Tempest with a strong-running 326 will never be a slouch in the performance department. Wearing a finish that's pretty close to its original code T Martinique Bronze, it was probably repainted a few years ago and still looks decent. It's obviously not a show car, but the paintwork was well done and is holding up well, and with a proper polish, it could be brought up a notch. That's the nice thing about cars like this: you don't have to fret when you drive them. Bugs? Rain? Who cares? The long, sleek bodywork looks awesome and the quarter panels, while they've been repaired, are still in good order. Most of the chrome and stainless trim is in excellent shape with no major demerits, although the rear bumper is showing its age. Also note the unique Tempest taillights, which are a bit more interesting than the familiar GTO pieces, and fortunately they're in good shape so you won't have to hunt down any replacements. The interior is where you'll want to invest a little time and money, because it's usable but in need of a few things. The door panels are nice and the upholstery on the front bench seat has probably been replaced at some point, as have the carpets. However, the back seat has a replacement seat cushion that obviously came from another car and is awaiting proper upholstery. There's also a newer black dash pad, but the rest appears original, including the 2-spoke steering wheel that is probably due to be upgraded. The original AM radio is in the center of the dash, which is always good news because you won't have to undo someone else's wiring nightmare to put in the stereo of your choice. The headliner is missing, but you'll find new fabric and sail panel pieces in the trunk to handle that particular detail. We believe the engine is the original 326 cubic inch V8, and before you dismiss the smaller Poncho V8 come take it for a drive, because this one runs quite well. It has a fresh carburetor up top, fed by a billet aluminum air cleaner, a new aluminum radiator, and some fresh ignition pieces, so it starts easily and pulls hard on the road. Pontiac Turquoise engine enamel look right in the sanitary satin black engine bay, and it powers a 2-speed PowerGlide automatic transmission that's about as durable as automatic gearboxes can get. Look around underneath and you'll see just how clean this car is, and with a recent Flowmaster dual exhaust system, it certainly has the right muscle car soundtrack. Factory Rally II wheels look great on any A-body, with these carrying recent BFGoodrich T/A radials all around. This isn't a pedigree car, this isn't a show piece, but it's a great-looking Poncho with a torquey V8 that's just waiting for someone to take it to the next level. Is that you? Give us a call!