USA vs USA — 1964 vs 2004
| GTO 389 Tri-Power | GTO 6.0 LS2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 348 hp | 400 hp |
| Torque | 428 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,375 cc | 5,967 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.6 sec | 4.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 170 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.8 sec | 13.1 sec |
| Weight | 3,400 lbs | 3,700 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,921 mm | 2,790 mm |
| Length | 5,181 mm | 4,815 mm |
| Units Produced | 32,450 | 40,808 |
| Original MSRP | $2,852 | $33,690 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $50,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 5/10 |
The 2004 Pontiac GTO 6.0 LS2 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1964 Pontiac GTO 389 Tri-Power counters with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The Pontiac GTO lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1964 Pontiac GTO 389 Tri-Power with the 2004 Pontiac GTO 6.0 LS2 reveals how Pontiac refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 2004 Pontiac GTO 6.0 LS2 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 400 hp compared to 348 hp, a 52-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Pontiac GTO uses a V8 OHV (Pontiac 389) displacing 6,375 cc, while the Pontiac GTO relies on a V8 OHV with 5,967 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2004 Pontiac GTO 6.0 LS2 edges ahead at 4.7 seconds versus 6.6 seconds. The Pontiac GTO carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 300 lbs lighter. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1964 Pontiac GTO 389 Tri-Power rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.