The Pontiac GTO began as an option package for the Tempest in 1964 with projected sales of 5,000 but actual sales exceeded 32,000, beginning the muscle car era. Styling and dimensions were updated over the years but sales remained strong, reaching over 96,000 in 1966. The 1969 model introduced the "Judge" option package and continued safety improvements as muscle cars grew in popularity until the energy crisis led to the end of the muscle car era in the early 1970s.

1. Pontiac Gto 1 Warren Burton Gto

2. 1964 - The Beginning Pontiac chief engineer is John Deloren Main competition was the Ford Mustang Was an option on the Tempest Projected sales of 5,000 Actual sales of over 32,000 Beginning of the muscle car era 2 Warren Burton Gto

3. 1965 Styling change New stacked headlights Overall length gains three inches Same dimensions in passenger compartment 75,000+ sold 3 Warren Burton Gto

4. 1966 - 1967 Sold as a stand alone model New safety equipment like the collapsing steering column. Nickname “Goat” is coined Sales in 1966 totaled 96,000 Sales in 1967 totaled close to 82,000 4 Warren Burton Gto

5. 1968 All new “Fastback” body style Popular options included Hide –a –way headlights and hidden wipers Shoulder safety belts introduced Motor Trends “Car of the Year” 5 Warren Burton Gto

6. 1969 “The Judge” “Judge” Option is introduced New safety features including Locking steering wheel Ignition moved from dashboard to steering column 72,000 sold Almost 7,000 with “Judge” option 6 Warren Burton Gto

7. 1970 - 1974 Gto’s popularity remains Energy crisis in full force Three body changes in three years Death of the Muscle car Era 7 Warren Burton Pontiac Gto