USA vs USA — 1964 vs 1968
| GTO 389 Tri-Power | GTO 400 Ram Air | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 348 hp | 366 hp |
| Torque | 428 lb-ft | 445 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,375 cc | 6,555 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.6 sec | 6.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.8 sec | 14.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,400 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,921 mm | 2,845 mm |
| Length | 5,181 mm | 5,131 mm |
| Units Produced | 32,450 | 87,684 |
| Original MSRP | $2,852 | $3,101 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $110,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 5/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1964 Pontiac GTO 389 Tri-Power offers greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1968 Pontiac GTO 400 Ram Air counters with quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
The Pontiac GTO lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1964 Pontiac GTO 389 Tri-Power with the 1968 Pontiac GTO 400 Ram Air reveals how Pontiac refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1964 Pontiac GTO 389 Tri-Power producing 348 hp and the 1968 Pontiac GTO 400 Ram Air delivering 366 hp. 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 (Pontiac 400) with 6,555 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Pontiac GTO 400 Ram Air edges ahead at 6.2 seconds versus 6.6 seconds. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.