1965 Pontiac GTO 389/360hp, 4-Speed
VIN: 237375K114095
Montero Red with Parchment Interior

The GTO was the brainchild of Pontiac engineer Russell Gee, an engine specialist; Bill Collins, a chassis engineer; and Pontiac chief engineer John Z. DeLorean. In early 1963, General Motors' management issued an edict banning divisions from involvement in auto racing. At the time, Pontiac's advertising and marketing approach was heavily based on performance, and racing was an important component of that strategy. With GM's ban on factory-sponsored racing, Pontiac's young, visionary management turned its attention to emphasizing street performance.
In his autobiography “Glory Days,” Pontiac chief marketing manager Jim Wangers, who worked for the division’s contract advertising and public relations agency, states that John DeLorean, Bill Collins and Russ Gee were indeed responsible for the GTO's creation. It involved transforming the upcoming redesigned Tempest (which was set to revert to a conventional front-engine, front transmission, rear-wheel drive configuration) into a "Super Tempest" with the larger 389 cu in (6.4 L) Pontiac V8 engine from the full-sized Pontiac Catalina and Bonneville in place of the standard 326 cu in (5.3 L) Tempest V8. By promoting the big-engine Tempest as a special high-performance model, they could appeal to the speed-minded youth market.
The GTO was basically a violation of GM policy limiting the A-body intermediate line to a maximum engine displacement of 330 cu in (5.4 L). Since the GTO was an option package for the Pontiac Tempest and not standard equipment, it could be considered to fall into a loophole in the policy. Pontiac General Manager Elliot "Pete" Estes approved the new model, although sales manager Frank Bridge, who did not believe it would find a market, insisted on limiting initial production to no more than 5,000 cars.
The name, which was DeLorean’s idea, was inspired by the Ferrari 250 GTO. It is an Italian abbreviation for Gran Turismo Omologato, which means officially certified for racing in the Grand Tourer class. The name drew protest from enthusiasts, who considered it close to sacrilege.
The Tempest line, including the GTO, was restyled for the 1965 model year. It had Pontiac's characteristic vertically stacked quad headlights. The brake lining area increased nearly 15%. Heavy-duty shocks were standard, as was a stronger front antisway bar. The dashboard design was changed, and an optional rally gauge cluster added a more legible tachometer and oil pressure gauge.
The 389 engines received revised cylinder heads with re-cored intake passages and high rise intake manifolds, improving breathing. The Tri-Power engine was now rated 360 hp at 5,200 rpm.
This particular GTO has been up graded to the tri-power setup with 3x2BBL carburetors and is equipped with the following factory options; bucket seats, deluxe steering wheel, instrument panel dash pad, rally gauge cluster with tachometer, Delco AM radio, rear speakers, rear power antenna, center console with vacuum gauge package, tilt steering wheel, power steering, M-20 Muncie 4-speed manual transmission, 3:23 12 bolt safe-T track rear axle, ride and handling package, dual exhaust splitters, backup lamps, luggage lamp, and the very rare and expensive Hurst wheels with classic redline radial tires. Most all factory correct components including the spare, jack, jack tools, seat belts, shifter, and air cleaner.
The car has been expertly detailed and presents extremely well. The paintwork is very nice, with no signs of wear or damage. The glass, chrome, stainless, and wheels are good. The interior, door panels, upholstery, dashboard, carpets, instruments and switches are good. The engine compartment is extremely clean and has been very nicely detailed with correct finishes applied on the engine, and the components.

The Pontiac Historic Services documentation customer delivery date was January 26, 1965 and the manufacturing plant was Kansas City. The original delivery dealer was Fisher Pontiac, Inc. 1813 15th Avenue, Gulfport, Mississippi (dealer code 237 in zone 19). This is an outstanding opportunity to acquire a highly optioned GTO in the very desirable original color combination of Red and Parchment. The coupe is in superb shape and is nicely equipped and beautifully presented.

This vehicle is being sold as is, where is with no warranty, expressed written or implied. The seller shall not be responsible for the correct description, authenticity, genuineness, or defects herein, and makes no warranty in connection therewith. No allowance or set aside will be made on account of any incorrectness, imperfection, defect or damage. Any descriptions or representations are for identification purposes only and are not to be construed as a warranty of any type. It is the responsibility of the buyer to have thoroughly inspected the vehicle, and to have satisfied himself or herself as to the condition and value and to bid based upon that judgement solely. The seller shall and will make every reasonable effort to disclose any known defects associated with this vehicle at the buyer's request prior to the close of sale. Seller assumes no responsibility for any repairs regardless of any oral statements about the vehicle.

Questions: Please feel free to contact us directly at any time with any questions you may have.

Odometer Readings: Due to demo test drives and mechanical inspections, the mileage of the vehicle represented might be slightly different than the mileage stated when the vehicle was first listed on eBay.

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Bidder's Age: You must be 18 years of age or older to bid.

Bid Retraction: Please read eBay's "Retracting a Bid". If you place a bid before the last 12-hour period of the auction, you may retract the bid before the last 12-hour period only for exceptional circumstances. You will not be allowed to retract that bid during the last 12-hour period of the auction. If you place a bid during the last 12-hour period of the auction, you will be allowed to retract the bid for exceptional circumstances only if you do so within one hour after placing the bid.

Financing: For help in arranging financing or for any questions regarding financing options, please contact us prior to bidding.

Buyer's Inspection: We do our best to disclose all information known about this vehicle for auction. We welcome a Buyer's Inspection. If you plan to have a Buyer's Inspection, please make sure you have the vehicle inspected prior to the end of the auction. Inspection fees, if any, are the "Buyer's" sole responsibility.

Warranty: Unless stated otherwise, this vehicle is being sold "as is". Manufacturer's warranties may still apply. An extended warranty may also be available. Please contact us for details. No representations or warranties are made by the "Seller", nor are any representations or warranties relied upon by "Bidders" in making bids.

Payments: A deposit of $1,000.00 US FUNDS  (non-refundable) must be paid within 24 Hours of the close of the Auction. When the deposit has been submitted, "Buyer" MUST fax a copy of their valid, state-issued driver's license. The remaining balance must be paid within 7 Days.

Title Information: Vehicle titles may be held by banks or lenders as collateral for loans. In many cases there is a delay in receiving the original instruments of up to 21 days from the time we pay a vehicle off. While we usually have all titles in our possession at closing, there are occasions where we may be waiting for them to arrive.

The State of Alabama is a non title state for vehicles 35 years and older.  These vehicles will be sold with a bill of sale and tag receipts only.

Finalizing Your Purchase: Winning bidder MUST communicate with us by e-mail or phone within 24 hours of the end of the auction to make arrangements to complete the transaction. If we cannot confirm your intention to buy or the sale is not completed within 7 days, we reserve the right to re-list this vehicle or sell to any other qualified buyer. Before the vehicle is released for shipment to the "Buyer", all sale-related and title-related paperwork must be signed and returned completed to the "Seller".

Shipping and Delivery: All shipping charges are the "Buyer's" responsibility. We will help with shipping arrangements but will not be responsible in any way for claims arising from shipping damage! Licensed "Carriers" are generally insured for $3,000,000.00. We assume no responsibility for damages incurred after the vehicle leaves our showroom. All shipping arrangements provided by us are strictly a courtesy. We are not affiliated with any carrier. Any claims or other communication regarding shipment of vehicles will be between you and the "Carrier" and not with us. The amount of time it takes for delivery depends upon the "Carrier" selected. A typical experience is 7-14 days from the date the vehicle is picked up from our facility until it is delivered to your destination. Verify with the "Carrier" for an Estimated Time of Arrival to be sure.

 Early Termination of Auction: We reserve the right to end any of our auctions early. All of our inventory is for sale on different websites including our own. Please contact Longbeach Customs at (256) 461-9973 or visit our website, longbeachcustoms.com for current pricing. All vehicles are for sale at the listed prices and can be purchased outright at anytime during the auction.

Taxes and Fees: "Buyer" is responsible not only for knowing their own states' laws regarding taxes and fees, but also paying the proper taxes, fees, and documents for their state. All taxes and fees must be paid in full if the bidder is a resident of Alabama in order for the vehicle to be titled and registered.

CUSTOMER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL TAXES ,TAG FEES AND SPECIAL REQUIRMENTS AND EQUIPMENT FOR VEHICLES LEAVING THE UNITED STATES OR THE STATE OF ALABAMA. DEALER RESERVES THE RIGHT TO END THE AUCTION EARLY IF THE VEHICLE BECOMES UNAVAILABLE.

LongBeach Customs offers over 34 years of experience in the auto industry.  We operate a 9000 square foot indoor showroom in Madison, Alabama.  Our passion and specialty is in the restoration and resale of classic motor vehicles.  We have a particular interest in classic, sports, and unique vehicles.  In addition, we offer consignment and financing opportunities through us and our business partners.