If you're looking for GTO looks on a budget, this 1971 Pontiac Le Mans Sport convertible definitely delivers. The body shell is, of course, the same, and it still packs a torquey 350 that delivers a muscle car experience just like a GTO, all without breaking a sweat. Looks good, goes fast, costs less, how can you lose? The paint job was done not long ago, and respraying this droptop in code 26 Lucerne Blue was an... obvious choice because this hue looks great on a big convertible from the era. Combined with the darker blue interior and white top, it looks just right on the sleek Le Mans bodywork. It isn't perfect and up close you can see a few minor flaws, but for the money, you're going to be pleased with the look. Fit and finish are quite good with doors that close as well as any other GM car of the period, indicative of a solid car that hasn't been bent or rusty. The Le Mans was a lot more GTO than most would believe, and the classic front end works as well here as it does on its more expensive big brother, as does the awesome hood tachometer and big rear spolier. There's not a lot of trim on the Lemans, but details like the '350' emblems on the rocker panels, the big chrome bumpers, and the factory emblems are all in solid original shape. And it really is nice to see that it hasn't been faked into a GTO, because the Le Mans Sport has a clean, chiseled look that works extremely well. This is still a great-looking car. Dressed to play, the code 261 Dark Blue bucket seat interior is just as functional and inviting as any in a GTO. The seat covers are in great shape and it's quite possible that things like those seat covers, the door panels, and even the dash pad are well-kept originals, if not correct OEM replacements, with the back seat looking almost like it's never been sat in. There are also plush, fresh carpets on the floor. The Lemans offers only basic instrumentation from the factory, but the triple gauge pod layout still looks sporty and the woodgrained appliques look warm and inviting, and it also adorns the middle console and neat set of auxiliary units attached underneath the dash. The steering wheel is a factory spec three-spoke PMD unit with a grippy rim, and the center console houses a familiar Pontiac shifter that manages the TH350 3-speed automatic transmission underneath. Options include power windows, an AM/FM radio (although it's the original unit and not currently working), an R134a A/C system, and a white power convertible top that works great. Out back, the spacious trunk is very solid and features a rubber mat and spare tire. The engine is a great-running, numbers-matching Pontiac 350 that seems to ignore the declining horsepower in the early 1970s because it feels plenty stout. It's pretty stock, including a 2-barrel carburetor under the original snorkeled air cleaner, but don't let that fool you into think it's not fun to drive. It's nicely detailed with corporate turquoise engine enamel, matching valve covers, and factory exhaust manifolds. There's a newer power brake system and the original A/C compressor has been converted to handle R134a refrigerant, but that's about it for modifications, with signs of careful maintenance throughout as well. It starts quickly and easily, idles with a pleasing V8 burble, and moves easily with a solid whack of low-end torque. It's backed by a TH350 3-speed automatic transmission and a 10-bolt rear end out back, so the powertrain is certainly durable enough to have fun without worries. A newer dual exhaust system with Flowmaster mufflers gives it a mellow soundtrack, and the Pontiac Rally II wheels are just the right touch. Fat 235/70/15 BFGoodrich white-letter radials fill the fenders and really nail the stance. If you don't care about pedigrees and investments and just want to get to the business of having fun, this very nicely preserved Le Mans is your car. Call today!
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