USA vs USA — 1968 vs 1966
| GTO 400 Ram Air | GTO Tri-Power 389 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 366 hp | 360 hp |
| Torque | 445 lb-ft | 424 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,555 cc | 6,374 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.2 sec | 6.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.2 sec | 14.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,500 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,845 mm | 2,946 mm |
| Length | 5,131 mm | 5,156 mm |
| Units Produced | 87,684 | 96,946 |
| Original MSRP | $3,101 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $110,000 | $130,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 4/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1968 Pontiac GTO 400 Ram Air excels in stronger collectibility, while the 1966 Pontiac GTO Tri-Power 389 stands out for quicker acceleration. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Tracing the evolution of the Pontiac GTO from 1968 to 1966 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Pontiac. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1968 Pontiac GTO 400 Ram Air producing 366 hp and the 1966 Pontiac GTO Tri-Power 389 delivering 360 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Pontiac GTO uses a V8 OHV (Pontiac 400) displacing 6,555 cc, while the Pontiac GTO relies on a V8 OHV with 6,374 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1966 Pontiac GTO Tri-Power 389 edges ahead at 6.2 seconds versus 6.2 seconds. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1968 Pontiac GTO 400 Ram Air rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.