There are muscle cars… and then there are icons. The 1968 Pontiac GTO sits firmly in the second category. A symbol of raw American power, attitude, and unmistakable presence, the GTO helped define the golden era of performance motoring.
This particular 1968 Pontiac 455 GTO, however, is not a standard restoration. It is a full 21st-century resto-mod build, carefully reimagined to deliver classic muscle aesthetics with modern drivability, reliability, and comfort.
From Purchase to Perfection
The Pontiac was purchased on 4 July 2013, with restoration officially commencing in January the following year. What followed was not simply a rebuild — but a comprehensive transformation to custom specifications.
Every detail has been addressed with the intent of elevating the car beyond factory standards, blending heritage with contemporary engineering.
Chassis & Braking – Built for Control
The chassis was completely sandblasted and finished in a durable black epoxy coating, ensuring long-term protection and structural integrity.
Stopping power has been dramatically upgraded with Wilwood 8-piston disc brakes up front, paired with rear drums — providing confident, modern braking performance to match the vehicle’s power output.
Wheels & Stance – Modern Muscle Presence
The GTO rides on an aggressive staggered setup:
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Rear: 17” wheels wrapped in 335/35 Pirelli tyres
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Front: 17” wheels wrapped in 255/40 Pirelli tyres
The wide rear footprint gives the car an unmistakable muscular stance, while the front setup maintains sharp steering response and balance. The result is a planted, purposeful look that commands attention from every angle.
Powertrain – The Heart of the Beast
At its core sits a Pontiac 455 motor with cam, delivering the deep, torque-heavy character that made big-block Pontiacs legendary.
Fuel delivery is handled by a Holley carburetor, while cooling is managed through an upgraded aluminum radiator to ensure consistent operating temperatures — even in demanding conditions.
Power is transferred through a 5-speed Toyota Supra gearbox, a popular performance upgrade known for its strength and reliability. This modern transmission transforms the driving experience, offering smoother shifts and improved highway cruising compared to the original setup.
A custom exhaust system with remote cut-outs allows the driver to choose between refined cruising and unapologetic muscle-car roar at the press of a button.
Electrical & Modern Enhancements
The vehicle features completely new electrics throughout, ensuring reliability and safety.
Upgrades include:
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LED headlights for improved visibility
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Air-conditioning for everyday comfort
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Custom dashboard layout
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New fuel tank
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Custom mirrors
These improvements allow the car to be driven and enjoyed in modern conditions without compromising its classic identity.
Interior – Luxury Meets Performance
Inside, the GTO has been fully retrimmed in full leather, elevating the cabin to premium standards.
Features include:
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Custom front and rear bucket seats
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New ceiling lining
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Imported sound system
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Bespoke dash configuration
The interior blends muscle-car aggression with executive comfort — a rare and compelling combination.
A Cape Town Classic – For Sale March 2026
This 1968 Pontiac 455 GTO is nearing completion in Cape Town and will be offered for sale around March 2026 at R1,500,000.
For collectors and enthusiasts seeking a properly built, thoughtfully engineered American muscle icon — modernised for real-world enjoyment — this GTO represents a rare opportunity.
It’s not just restored. It’s redefined.
