A Brief History of the Pontiac Grand Prix

The 1968 Pontiac Grand Prix was powered by a range of V8 engines, offering a combination of power and refinement. The base model came equipped with a 400 cubic-inch (6.6 liter) V8 engine, producing 330 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a three-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and effortless acceleration.

However, for those seeking more excitement, Pontiac offered the GTO package, which added a high-performance 400 cubic-inch (6.6 liter) V8 engine, producing an impressive 360 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a four-speed manual transmission, allowing drivers to take full control of their Grand Prix’s performance.

Notably, the 1968 Pontiac Grand Prix featured a range of innovative technologies, including a tri-power carburetor setup on some models, which added an extra intake manifold and carburetors to increase power output. Additionally, Pontiac’s legendary Ram Air system was available, which used a combination of air scoops and vents to feed cold air directly into the engine.

Overall, the 1968 Pontiac Grand Prix offered impressive performance capabilities, making it a formidable opponent on the road. With its range of V8 engines, smooth transmissions, and innovative technologies, this iconic muscle car remains a beloved classic among collectors and enthusiasts today.

Engine and Performance Specifications

The 1968 Pontiac Grand Prix was equipped with a powerful V8 engine, specifically a 400 cubic-inch (6.6 liter) Rocket V8, which produced 325 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 410 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. This engine was paired with a three-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive acceleration.

The Grand Prix’s acceleration numbers were impressive for its time, going from 0-60 mph in just 7.2 seconds and reaching a quarter-mile time of 15.6 seconds at 93 mph. Its top speed was electronically limited to 130 mph due to safety concerns.

One notable feature available on the 1968 Grand Prix was the optional Ram Air system, which increased horsepower output by 20% when paired with a cold air intake and modified camshaft. This upgrade made the Grand Prix one of the most powerful cars on the market at the time.

The Rocket V8 engine also featured a number of innovative technologies, including a dual-point ignition system, which improved spark plug performance, and a high-lift camshaft that increased lift and duration for more power. Additionally, the engine’s cylinder heads were designed with a unique valve train configuration that helped to reduce emissions while maintaining performance.

Overall, the 1968 Pontiac Grand Prix’s V8 engine and performance specifications made it a formidable competitor in the muscle car market of its time, and its impressive acceleration numbers and powerful sound have become legendary among classic car enthusiasts.

Production Numbers and Variations

The 1968 Pontiac Grand Prix production numbers were significant, with over 83,000 units produced during its model year run. This represented a slight increase from the previous year’s total, indicating a growing demand for the mid-size luxury coupe.

One notable variation was the GTO (Grand Turismo Omologato) package, which was available as an option on certain Grand Prix models. The GTO package added a number of sporty features, including a distinctive hood stripe, special wheels, and a performance-oriented suspension. Only 3,418 Grand Prix coupes were produced with the GTO package, making them highly sought after by collectors.

Another rare variation was the Grand Prix 400, which was introduced in the spring of 1968. This model featured a more aggressive exterior styling treatment, including a distinctive front end and special wheels. Only 2,655 Grand Prix 400s were produced, making them a rare find among Grand Prix enthusiasts.

The production numbers for the 1968 Pontiac Grand Prix had a significant impact on its value and collectibility. The rarity of certain models, such as the GTO and Grand Prix 400, has driven up demand and prices among collectors. Additionally, the overall popularity of the Grand Prix during this era has contributed to its reputation as a desirable classic car.

Design and Features

The 1968 Pontiac Grand Prix was designed to make a statement, with sleek lines and iconic styling cues that set it apart from its competitors. The car’s exterior features a bold, chromed-out grille, flanked by hideaway headlights that added to its aggressive appearance. The sides of the car are characterized by a distinctive crease that runs from the front fender to the rear quarter panel, giving the Grand Prix a dynamic, athletic stance. The interior of the Grand Prix is equally impressive, with plush velour upholstery and rich wood trim adorning the dashboard and doors. The car’s instrumentation was designed to be intuitive and easy to read, with large gauges and a prominent speedometer that dominates the center console.

One notable design innovation of the 1968 Grand Prix is its use of advanced technology, including a state-of-the-art AM/FM stereo system and optional air conditioning. These features were cutting-edge for the time, making the Grand Prix one of the most luxurious and high-tech cars on the market.

  • Key Design Elements:
    • Bold, chromed-out grille
    • Hideaway headlights
    • Distinctive crease on sides
    • Plush velour upholstery
    • Rich wood trim
    • Advanced technology features (AM/FM stereo, air conditioning)

Legacy and Collectibility

The 1968 Pontiac Grand Prix has long been a prized possession among collectors and enthusiasts, its enduring appeal rooted in its unique blend of style, performance, and exclusivity.

One notable owner of the ‘68 Grand Prix is actor and racing enthusiast, Steve McQueen, who purchased one as his personal vehicle. McQueen’s love for the car was evident in the meticulous restoration he performed on it, which included replacing the original engine with a more powerful 400-cubic-inch V8.

In terms of rarity, the ‘68 Grand Prix is relatively scarce, with only around 35,000 units produced during its model year. This limited production run has contributed to its desirability among collectors, who are willing to pay top dollar for well-preserved examples.

Restorations of the ‘68 Grand Prix have been done to exacting standards, often featuring period-correct parts and meticulous attention to detail. One such example is the 2013 Barrett-Jackson Auction’s “Best of Show” winner, a restored ‘68 Grand Prix that sold for over $100,000.

Showings of the ‘68 Grand Prix have also been impressive, with many examples earning awards at classic car shows and concours events. Its iconic styling cues, including the distinctive " Coke-bottle" shape and aggressive front grille, continue to captivate audiences and inspire enthusiasts to restore and preserve these beautiful machines.

In conclusion, the 1968 Pontiac Grand Prix was an exceptional vehicle with impressive performance and production numbers. Its 428 cubic inch V8 engine provided incredible power and acceleration, while its sleek design made it a head-turner on the road. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just looking for a unique piece of American automotive history, the 1968 Pontiac Grand Prix is definitely worth considering.