5th Gen GTO Comeback & GTO's Future
| Trim | Production | Engine | Power | Transmission | Drivetrain |
| 5th Gen | 2003 – 2004 | 5.7L LS1 V8 | 350 HP / 354 PS / 260 kW (Reduced compression) | 6-Speed Manual 4-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| 5th Gen | 2005 – 2006 | 6.0L LS2 V8 | 400 HP / 405 PS / 300 kW (Reduced compression) | 6-Speed Manual 4-Speed Automatic | RWD |
After more than three decades, the Pontiac GTO made a highly anticipated comeback in 2004. The fourth-generation GTO was a fusion of American and Australian engineering, based on the Holden Monaro, an Australian muscle car. It embodied a modern interpretation of the classic GTO, showcasing a more refined and understated design.
Under the hood, the fourth-generation GTO packed a punch with a 5.7-liter LS1 V8 engine, delivering 350 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque. It featured advanced suspension tuning, improved handling, and modern conveniences such as traction control and anti-lock brakes.
Although the fourth-generation GTO received mixed reviews for its restrained styling, it still provided a thrilling driving experience and honored the spirit of its predecessors. However, due to changing market conditions and the eventual discontinuation of the Pontiac brand, the fifth-generation GTO marked the end of its production.
What’s Next for the Pontiac GTO?
The Pontiac GTO’s legacy is one of power, style, and a rich automotive heritage. From its inception in the 1960s to its latest incarnation in 2004, the GTO has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide. Each generation represented a unique chapter in the GTO’s evolution, showcasing technological advancements, design innovations, and a commitment to delivering exhilarating performance.
While the future of the GTO remains uncertain, its storied past and enduring legacy continue to inspire automotive enthusiasts. The Pontiac GTO will forever be remembered as a symbol of American muscle and a testament to the golden age of high-performance cars.
4 Responses
Those red air cleaner decals look awful on any Pontiac. They aren’t factory and they really detract from the simplistic underhood appearance of the awesome Pontiac V8. Peel that crap off and throw it in the trash
That was the first time I realized how easy it was for our government to unfold BIG FAT lies! Those gas shortages were as phony as the Easter Bunny. I was in the U.S. Merchant Marines from 1975 until 1993. When we were getting gas at local gas stations depending on the last number on our license plates (odd or even) remember that? Well that shortage was fake. OPEC was new and they were making new prices all day, every day. We sat on ships at anchor for days waiting for the price to settle. Meanwhile the Japanese auto companies were taking advantage of us too. Selling us those little cars that were economical? Yeah economical but not an ounce of performance!! Soon though American auto makers were copying them. Anyone remember the Mustang 2 or the Malibu that looked like a shoe box? Bad times for car enthusiasts. In the past decade I have noticed that we are trying to get back to the days when we were proud to buy American! I hope they stay in that lane until they get it right.
The first big block intermediate car I got to drive was a 1965 GTO TRI POWER 4 speed. What a rush at 16 years old! I ran it up past the 120 on speedometer, it was still pulling hard. I doubt that young kids now can even comprehend the power these cars had back then. These cars were truly one the great american products to come out of the 1960’s, back when we had that can do attitude without any limits!
Had one love it 😀