RK Motors Charlotte
5527 Lakeview Road
Charlotte, NC 28269
"Frame Off Restored GTO Hardtop 389 Tri-Power 4-speed PHS Documented.
Locating a low-mileage, original sheetmetal muscle car is a restorer's dream. That car being a 59,000 mile '66 GTO with factory Tri-Power, four speed transmission and, an exciting color combo is a Ponitac collector's dream. And what we have for sale is just that! A dream come true!
With only 3 owners since new, and in the hands of the 2nd owner for 53 years, the history of this GTO Tri-Power is well known. The original owner enjoyed the car for the first 2 years before handing it over to its long term steward in 1968. The car lived much of its life in the dry climate of Utah and was used sparingly racking up the 59,000 miles still shown on the odometer today. Fast forwarding to 2021, the handsome goat remained in running condition, albeit showing its age and time spent under the desert sun. The last active registration from 1982 still affixed to the windshield. A restorer from North Carolina located the car and took on the task of bringing it back to its former glory. The originality and authenticity of the car was certainly recognized and during the 2 year restoration, every effort was made to retain and restore as many original parts as possible.
Frame off restored and PHS documented, this high performance 1966 GTO makes a fine addition to any collection and is sure to turn heads on the street.
Introduction and Background
The Pontiac GTO was first introduced in 1964 as an option package for the Pontiac Tempest. It quickly gained popularity and is often considered one of the pioneering models in the muscle car era. The 1966 Pontiac GTO is a classic American muscle car that holds a special place even today in automotive history.
Design Changer
The 1966 GTO retained the styling introduced in 1965. It features a distinctive split grille, stacked headlights, and a more aggressive appearance compared to the standard Tempest. We can all thank John DeLorean, Bill Collins, and Russ Gee who were each responsible for the GTO's creation.
Engine Muscle
The GTO is known for its powerful engines. In 1966, the GTO could be equipped with several engine options, including a 389 cubic-inch V8 engine. This nicely restored ""GOAT"" has the Tri-Power setup, featuring three two-barrel carburetors, that adds to the car's performance and overall appeal.
Impressive Performance for 1966
1966 GTO is a high-performance machine, and it played a significant role in popularizing the muscle car culture. It is capable of impressive acceleration and speed, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
Transmission With 4 Speeds
The manual transmissions, especially the 4-speed like the one we have here, were popular among those seeking a more engaging driving experience. Changing gears is done via a floor mounted chrome Hurst shifter.
Interior and Features
The interior of the 1966 GTO was designed with a sporty and functional layout. It features bucket seats, along with a driver-oriented instrument panel. The interior of this impeccable example has been restored with original interior parts retained and restored where possible.
Popularity and Legacy
The 1966 Pontiac GTO is often regarded as one of the most iconic and desirable models in the GTO lineup. Its success contributed to the ongoing popularity of the GTO series and the muscle car genre.
Collector's Item
Due to its historical significance and classic muscle car appeal, the 1966 Pontiac GTO has become a sought-after collector's item. Well-maintained and restored examples like this one command high attention in the collector car market. The Pontiac GTO from 1966 is a classic representation of the American muscle car era, and its design, performance, and cultural impact have left a legacy in automotive history.
Here is what makes this Montero Red GTO a standout choice for any collector or enthusiast:
Factory GTO (PHS documented)
Original 59,000 mile car, frame off restored in 2022
389 V8 6.5 liter
Factory Tri-Power (PHS documented)
Rochester carburetors professionally restored
Hydraulic roller camshaft from Butler Performance
Pertronix ignition
Engine overhauled during restoration including cylinder heads
4 speed manual transmission
Hurst shifter
Transmission overhauled during restoration
Power steering
Dual reservoir brake master cylinder installed for safety (Original single reservoir included)
Auxiliary oil pressure and coolant temp gauges added under dash
Bucket seats
Original interior parts were retained and restored where possible
Original seat upholstery
Original headliner
New carpet
Dash and pad restored by Just Dashes, Van Nuys, CA
Vintage column tach converted to solid state and calibrated
AM radio
New white vinyl top installed during restoration
Factory color of Montero Red over Red vinyl interior and White vinyl top
Rear end was overhauled during restoration
New bearings and seals installed
New u-joints and re-balanced driveshaft
Reproduction Firestone 7.75-14 tires from Coker
PMD wheels
Drum brakes front and rear
Dual exhaust
T-3 headlights
Purchased as a complete running car in 2021-West Coast car
Began restoration in 2021 and finished the car in 2022
500 miles since completion
3 owner car
Body off frame restoration
Original sheet metal
Drivetrain overhauled during restoration
Original Protect-O-Plate included
Owner's Manual included
State inspection receipts documenting the mileage from '73-'81
Ownership history included
Restoration photos included
PHS documentation included
Built at the Freemont, CA plant in the first week of July 1966
Sold new to 1st owner at Fred Carleson Pontiac in Salt Lake City, UT
Owner #2 from Salt Lake City, UT purchased the car in 1968
Owner #3 (current owner) purchased the car in Salt Lake City, UT and took it to NC to be restored
The car had been off the road since 1982 prior to its 2022 restoration
Comprehensive, multi-point inspection on all RK Motors vehicles
Worldwide shipment arrangement capabilities
Sold with a North Carolina Title
Inquire about extended service plans for long-term protection
"
Year: | 1966 |
Make: | Pontiac |
Model: | GTO |
Mileage: | 59033 |
Exterior Color: | Montero Red |
Interior Color: | Dark Red |
Trim: | |
Body: | hardtop |
Stock: | 137692 |
Engine Size: | Gasoline |
Transmission: | 4 Speed Manual |
Vin: | 242176Z132295 |
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RK Motors was built on a vision to share our passion for cars, make buying or selling your dream car as simple and satisfying as possible, and make the hobby more enjoyable and accessible. At the core of our operation is a dedicated group of serious car enthusiasts who strive to achieve our corporate vision. No matter where you look, you'll see this ideal reflected throughout RK Motors operations.
The “RK” in RK Motors proudly represents our founder Rob Kauffman, a lifelong enthusiast. Rob’s deep passion for cars, extensive automotive knowledge, and business insight has transformed the company into one of the most innovative collector car dealers in the United States.
RK Motors is a global destination for serious collectors and hobbyists. Our state-of-the-art 60,000 square foot East Coast showroom was named the nation’s #1 “must see” destination for gearheads and enthusiasts by HotRod Magazine. Our website draws nearly 300,000 visitors per month, making it the most viewed car dealer website on the planet. RK Motors continually offers something new and unique to consider.
In addition to being a classic car dealership, our world-class RKM Performance Center has restored some of the most legendary cars on the planet. Many of these cars have collected trophies at some of the largest shows in the country. Our ASE certified mechanics and Master Technicians are also fellow enthusiasts who ensuring your vehicle is treated with the utmost respect. From our unprecedented Seal of Approval Exit Service to complete restorations, our performance center has the passion, knowledge, and experience to fulfill your automotive needs.
The RK Motors name has appeared on all forms of media and even a few race cars. We proudly support various racing series and competitions, including NASCAR. Our Chairman, Rob Kauffman, drives a RK Motors Charlotte sponsored Ferrari F458 Italia in endurance races like the Rolex 24 and 12 Hours of Sebring. He also competes in Historic Trans Am racing and various road rallies, domestic and abroad.
If your passion for cars burns as brightly as ours, call our sales team today to schedule an appointment to visit our showroom. We hope to see you on our list of satisfied customers soon. Until then, see you on the road or at the track.
With more than 4,500 high grade, classic cars sold since 2007, RK Motors has established a clear track record with thousands of customers world-wide. On an annual basis, more than 80% of our sales are from repeat customers.
Before any car is listed for sale, on our website, our highly skilled, in-house production team spends countless hours ensuring every image and video represents each vehicle as you would see it in our showroom. With the exception of one visually explain enhanced “lead shot”, our images are true to the actual state of the car- what you see is what you get.
Speaking of our showroom, if you are ever in the Charlotte, NC area, please make it a point to schedule a visit with us and find out why Hot Rod Magazine named our showroom its Top Automotive Destination in the US for 2013.
If you're a serious collector looking to freshen your collection, we'll gladly consider high-quality trades, even if it's a car you recently bought from us. No other dealer offers the same services and flexibility as RK Motors.
Being a full-service, licensed, used car dealer, we offer finance, insurance, transportation, restoration and customization for your collector car. We handle the business end of every sale with equal confidence. All titles are clean and transfers are handled in-office for the quickest turnaround possible.
No matter what corner of the globe you live on, we can ship a car to you. Our transportation and logistics team includes a full time shipping manager for quick, reliable and professional service. Like everything else we do, we’ll work hard for you to make the process as painless as possible.
Our reputation among collectors speaks for itself. Visit our customer reviews page or give our sales team a call. We'll be happy to connect you with some of our current customers.
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