The second-generation Pontiac GTO, a departure from its predecessor with a sleeker, more curvaceous body and shorter wheelbase, offered a range of performance options. The standard engine was a 350 hp unit, but the Ram Air II package provided a significant power boost. This particular 1968 GTO, one of only 199 produced with the Ram Air II and a four speed manual, has a black exterior with distinctive features like retractable headlights, a hood mounted tachometer, and a rear wing.
While the original engine has been replaced, the car retains its original interior with faux woodgrain trim, a Hurst shifter, and AutoMeter gauges hidden under the center console lid. The Ram Air II package, which was introduced shortly after the second-generation GTO’s debut, was a popular option among performance enthusiasts.
It featured a revised intake manifold, a higher flow carburetor, and a more aggressive camshaft, resulting in a significant increase in horsepower and torque. The Ram Air II engine was paired with a close ratio four speed manual transmission, which allowed the driver to fully exploit the engine’s power potential.
This particular 1968 GTO was equipped with the Ram Air II engine and a four-speed manual transmission, making it a highly desirable car among collectors. The car’s black exterior with retractable headlights, hood-mounted tachometer, and rear wing gave it a menacing appearance that was sure to turn heads.
The interior was also well-appointed, with faux woodgrain trim, a Hurst shifter, and AutoMeter gauges hidden under the center console lid. While the original engine has been replaced, the car still retains its original interior and many of its original features. The new engine, which is likely a more modern and powerful unit, would have allowed the car to perform even better on the track or street. The car’s condition and its rarity make it a valuable asset for any collector.
The seller claims that despite the unknown total mileage, they’ve only driven the car around 150 miles. However, the real highlight of this GTO is the engine swap. The original 400 ci V8 Ram Air II has been replaced with a 455 ci V8 from a 1973 Pontiac.
This engine has been further modified with a .030” overbore, custom pistons, camshaft, aluminum rockers, cylinder heads, fuel pump, Edelbrock carburetor, and more, thanks to Kauffman Racing Equipment.
A dyno sheet shows that this GTO produces 403 horsepower at the wheels, which translates to around 450-470 horsepower at the crank. This significant power increase is sure to make this GTO a thrilling and powerful ride.
