USA vs USA — 1964 vs 2008
| GTO 389 Tri-Power | G8 GXP 6.2 LS3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 348 hp | 415 hp |
| Torque | 428 lb-ft | 415 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,375 cc | 6,162 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.6 sec | 4.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 170 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.8 sec | 12.9 sec |
| Weight | 3,400 lbs | 3,995 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,921 mm | 2,915 mm |
| Length | 5,181 mm | 4,979 mm |
| Units Produced | 32,450 | 1,829 |
| Original MSRP | $2,852 | $39,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $60,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 8/10 |
The 2008 Pontiac G8 GXP 6.2 LS3 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 1964 Pontiac GTO 389 Tri-Power and 2008 Pontiac G8 GXP 6.2 LS3 share a manufacturer in Pontiac, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Pontiac brand. The 2008 Pontiac G8 GXP 6.2 LS3 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 415 hp compared to 348 hp, a 67-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 G8 GXP relies on a V8 OHV with 6,162 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2008 Pontiac G8 GXP 6.2 LS3 edges ahead at 4.7 seconds versus 6.6 seconds. The Pontiac GTO carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 595 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,829 units built, the 2008 Pontiac G8 GXP 6.2 LS3 is considerably scarcer than the Pontiac GTO's 32,450 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1964 Pontiac GTO 389 Tri-Power rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.