Original cost: $3,108.00 base; $3,287.00 for the hardtop
On loan from: Phil Mitchell, Sumner, Washington
Number made: 5,807
Engine, etc.: Two engines available: 6.5 L V-8 and a 7.5 L V-8, both with 3-speed manual transmission or optional 4-speed manual; limited-slip differential was standard
The standard formula of taking a mid-sixed car and stuffing a large engine under the hood started with the GTO.
It began with 1964 models and forced other brands to play catch up. Other manufacturers tried to match the GTO with raw power while Pontiac offered excellent power with good looks and more creature comforts than other entry-level manufacturers.
By 1971 the beginning of the end of the golden age of American Muscle cars had begun. The Ram Air engines were not included in the lineup with the 455 H. O. engine as the largest available. The “Judge” nameplate was seen for the last year and available only with the 455 H. O. Horsepower began dropping with, for example, the base 400 engine reduced to 350 h. p. in 1970 and to 300 h. p. in 1971.
Few changes were made for 1972. Looks were the same as in 1971 though there were changes to fender vents behind the front wheels. Missing was the Judge package and horsepower was again 300 h. p. due to strict emission regulations. The GTO went from being its own separate model to being an option package for the LeMans.
Pontiac ceased production of the GTO in 1974 but a new GTO was introduced in 2004. It was built by a General Motors subsidiary – Holden, with the Monaro nameplate. Many called the appearance bland, but it had a sports car engine with 350 h.p. and 0 – 60 acceleration in 5.3 seconds. Production of GTO’s ceased in 2006.
https://oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Pontiac/1972%20Pontiac/1972%20Pontiac%20Brochure/dirindex.html (Original dealer brochure)