The 1979 Pontiac GTO is a muscle car produced by Pontiac, a division of General Motors. It was the fifth and final generation of the GTO, and was produced for only one year. The 1979 GTO was based on the Pontiac Firebird, and was available in both coupe and hatchback body styles. It was powered by a 400 cubic inch V8 engine, and was available with either a four-speed manual or a three-speed automatic transmission. The 1979 GTO was a popular car, and over 70,000 units were produced.
The 1979 Pontiac GTO is significant for several reasons. First, it was the last year that the GTO was produced. Second, it was the first year that the GTO was based on the Firebird. Third, it was the first year that the GTO was available with a hatchback body style. Finally, the 1979 GTO was one of the last muscle cars produced by Pontiac.
The 1979 Pontiac GTO is a popular collector car today. It is prized for its rarity, its performance, and its historical significance. The 1979 GTO is a reminder of a time when muscle cars ruled the roads.
1979 Pontiac GTO
The 1979 Pontiac GTO is a significant car for several reasons. Here are ten key aspects that highlight its importance:
- Last year of production: The 1979 GTO was the last year that the GTO was produced.
- Based on the Firebird: The 1979 GTO was the first year that the GTO was based on the Firebird.
- Hatchback body style: The 1979 GTO was the first year that the GTO was available with a hatchback body style.
- 400 cubic inch V8 engine: The 1979 GTO was powered by a 400 cubic inch V8 engine.
- Four-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmission: The 1979 GTO was available with either a four-speed manual or a three-speed automatic transmission.
- Over 70,000 units produced: The 1979 GTO was a popular car, and over 70,000 units were produced.
- Popular collector car: The 1979 Pontiac GTO is a popular collector car today.
- Prized for its rarity: The 1979 GTO is prized for its rarity.
- Prized for its performance: The 1979 GTO is prized for its performance.
- Prized for its historical significance: The 1979 GTO is prized for its historical significance.
These ten key aspects highlight the importance of the 1979 Pontiac GTO. It was the last year of production for the GTO, and it was the first year that the GTO was based on the Firebird and available with a hatchback body style. The 1979 GTO was powered by a 400 cubic inch V8 engine, and it was available with either a four-speed manual or a three-speed automatic transmission. Over 70,000 units were produced, and the 1979 GTO is a popular collector car today. It is prized for its rarity, its performance, and its historical significance.
Last year of production
The fact that the 1979 GTO was the last year of production for the GTO is a significant aspect of its identity and legacy. It marked the end of an era for Pontiac, as the GTO was one of the most iconic muscle cars ever produced. The GTO had been in production since 1964, and it had become synonymous with performance and excitement. However, the muscle car era was coming to an end in the late 1970s, as rising insurance costs, stricter emissions regulations, and themade it increasingly difficult to produce and sell high-performance cars. As a result, Pontiac decided to discontinue the GTO after the 1979 model year.
The 1979 GTO was a special car, as it represented the end of an era. It was the last chance for Pontiac to produce the GTO, and the company pulled out all the stops to make it a memorable one. The 1979 GTO was available in a variety of colors and trim levels, and it was powered by a powerful 400 cubic inch V8 engine. The 1979 GTO was also the first year that the GTO was available with a hatchback body style, which gave it a more sporty and aggressive look. Over 70,000 units of the 1979 GTO were produced, making it one of the most popular muscle cars of its time.
Today, the 1979 Pontiac GTO is a highly sought-after collector car. It is prized for its rarity, its performance, and its historical significance. The 1979 GTO is a reminder of a time when muscle cars ruled the roads, and it is a testament to the enduring legacy of Pontiac.
Based on the Firebird
The 1979 Pontiac GTO was based on the Firebird, a smaller and lighter car than the Pontiac Grand Prix, on which previous GTO models had been based. This change was made in order to improve the GTO’s performance and handling. The Firebird was a popular car, and its use as the basis for the GTO helped to make the GTO more appealing to a wider range of buyers.
- Improved Performance: The Firebird was a lighter car than the Grand Prix, which gave the GTO a better power-to-weight ratio. This resulted in improved acceleration and handling.
- Better Handling: The Firebird’s smaller size and lighter weight also gave the GTO better handling. The GTO was more agile and responsive than previous models, making it more fun to drive.
- More Appealing to a Wider Range of Buyers: The Firebird was a more popular car than the Grand Prix, which helped to make the GTO more appealing to a wider range of buyers. The GTO was now seen as a more affordable and attainable muscle car.
The decision to base the GTO on the Firebird was a significant one. It helped to improve the GTO’s performance and handling, and it made the GTO more appealing to a wider range of buyers. As a result, the 1979 Pontiac GTO was one of the most successful GTO models ever produced.
Hatchback body style
The 1979 Pontiac GTO was the first year that the GTO was available with a hatchback body style. This was a significant change from previous GTO models, which had all featured a coupe body style. The hatchback body style gave the GTO a more sporty and aggressive look, and it also made the car more practical for everyday use.
- Improved Styling: The hatchback body style gave the GTO a more sporty and aggressive look. The sloping roofline and the large rear window gave the car a more aerodynamic look, and the hatchback design made the car look more muscular and powerful.
- Increased Practicality: The hatchback body style made the GTO more practical for everyday use. The large rear hatch made it easy to load and unload cargo, and the folding rear seats gave the car more versatility.
- Expanded Appeal: The hatchback body style helped to expand the GTO’s appeal to a wider range of buyers. The GTO was now seen as a more practical and versatile car, which made it more appealing to families and other buyers who needed a car that could do it all.
The decision to offer the GTO with a hatchback body style was a significant one. It helped to improve the GTO’s styling, practicality, and appeal. As a result, the 1979 Pontiac GTO was one of the most successful GTO models ever produced.
400 cubic inch V8 engine
The 400 cubic inch V8 engine was a significant component of the 1979 Pontiac GTO. It was a powerful and reliable engine that gave the GTO its impressive performance. The V8 engine was also relatively fuel-efficient for its time, which made it a good choice for everyday driving.
The 400 cubic inch V8 engine was a popular choice for muscle cars in the 1970s. It was used in a variety of GM vehicles, including the Pontiac Firebird, the Chevrolet Camaro, and the Oldsmobile 442. The V8 engine was also used in a number of other American muscle cars, including the Ford Mustang and the Dodge Challenger.
The 400 cubic inch V8 engine is still popular today among muscle car enthusiasts. It is a powerful and reliable engine that can be used in a variety of applications. The V8 engine is also relatively easy to maintain and repair, which makes it a good choice for car enthusiasts who like to work on their own vehicles.
The 400 cubic inch V8 engine is an important part of the 1979 Pontiac GTO’s legacy. It was a powerful and reliable engine that gave the GTO its impressive performance. The V8 engine was also relatively fuel-efficient for its time, which made it a good choice for everyday driving. The 400 cubic inch V8 engine is still popular today among muscle car enthusiasts, and it is a testament to the enduring legacy of the 1979 Pontiac GTO.
Four-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmission
The 1979 Pontiac GTO was available with either a four-speed manual or a three-speed automatic transmission. This gave buyers the choice of a more engaging driving experience with the manual transmission or a more convenient and relaxed driving experience with the automatic transmission.
- Manual Transmission: The four-speed manual transmission gave drivers more control over the GTO’s performance. Drivers could choose the right gear for the driving conditions, which allowed them to maximize the GTO’s power and efficiency. The manual transmission also gave drivers a more engaging and sporty driving experience.
- Automatic Transmission: The three-speed automatic transmission was more convenient and easier to drive than the manual transmission. Drivers did not have to worry about shifting gears, which made driving the GTO in stop-and-go traffic or on long road trips more relaxing. The automatic transmission also shifted gears smoothly, which made for a more comfortable driving experience.
The availability of both a manual and an automatic transmission gave buyers the choice of a GTO that best suited their driving needs and preferences. The manual transmission was a good choice for drivers who wanted a more engaging and sporty driving experience, while the automatic transmission was a good choice for drivers who wanted a more convenient and relaxed driving experience.
Over 70,000 units produced
The fact that over 70,000 units of the 1979 GTO were produced is a testament to its popularity. The GTO was a popular car for a number of reasons, including its stylish design, powerful engine, and relatively affordable price. The GTO was also seen as a symbol of American muscle, and it appealed to buyers who wanted a car that was both fun to drive and practical for everyday use.
The popularity of the 1979 GTO is also due in part to the fact that it was the last year that the GTO was produced. This made the 1979 GTO a collector’s item, and it is now one of the most sought-after muscle cars on the market.
The high production numbers of the 1979 GTO also had a positive impact on the Pontiac brand. The GTO was one of Pontiac’s most popular cars, and it helped to boost the company’s sales and reputation. The GTO also helped to solidify Pontiac’s image as a builder of high-performance muscle cars.
In conclusion, the fact that over 70,000 units of the 1979 GTO were produced is a testament to its popularity and importance. The GTO was a popular car for a number of reasons, and it played a significant role in the history of Pontiac.
Popular collector car
The popularity of the 1979 Pontiac GTO as a collector car is closely tied to its significance as a muscle car and its status as the last year of production for the GTO. These factors have contributed to its desirability among collectors and enthusiasts.
As a muscle car, the 1979 GTO represents the pinnacle of American automotive performance. Its powerful engine, sporty handling, and aggressive styling evoke the golden age of muscle cars. This nostalgia and appreciation for classic muscle cars drive demand among collectors who seek to own a piece of automotive history.
Furthermore, the 1979 GTO’s status as the final production year adds to its collectability. As the last of its kind, it holds a unique place in Pontiac’s history and the muscle car era. Collectors recognize the rarity and historical significance of this model, making it a highly sought-after vehicle.
The practical significance of understanding the connection between the 1979 Pontiac GTO’s popularity as a collector car and its overall significance lies in its impact on the automotive market and preservation of automotive heritage. The demand for classic muscle cars, including the 1979 GTO, has led to the growth of a thriving collector car market. This market not only caters to enthusiasts but also supports businesses specializing in restoration, parts, and memorabilia.
Moreover, the preservation of classic cars like the 1979 GTO plays a vital role in preserving automotive history. These vehicles serve as tangible reminders of past technological advancements and cultural trends. By collecting and restoring classic cars, enthusiasts help to ensure that future generations can appreciate and learn from these automotive icons.
In summary, the 1979 Pontiac GTO’s popularity as a collector car is deeply intertwined with its significance as a muscle car and the last year of GTO production. This status has made it a highly sought-after vehicle among collectors, driving demand and supporting the collector car market. Understanding this connection highlights the enduring appeal of classic muscle cars and their role in preserving automotive heritage.
Prized for its rarity
The rarity of the 1979 Pontiac GTO is a significant factor contributing to its value and desirability among collectors and enthusiasts. Several key factors contribute to its status as a rare vehicle, making it a prized possession for those fortunate enough to own one.
- Limited Production Run: In its final year of production, Pontiac produced only 70,512 units of the 1979 GTO. This relatively low production number, compared to other muscle cars of the era, makes the 1979 GTO a rarer find.
- Discontinuation of the GTO Model: The 1979 model year marked the end of the Pontiac GTO’s production. This discontinuation means that there will never be any more factory-produced 1979 GTOs, adding to their exclusivity and rarity.
- Time and Attrition: Over the years, many 1979 GTOs have been lost due to accidents, neglect, or simply the passage of time. This attrition has further reduced the number of surviving 1979 GTOs, making them even rarer.
The combination of these factors makes the 1979 Pontiac GTO a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts. Its rarity ensures that it will always be a sought-after vehicle, holding its value and desirability for generations to come.
Prized for its performance
The 1979 Pontiac GTO is prized for its performance due to its powerful engine, exceptional handling, and impressive acceleration. These attributes are key components of the GTO’s identity and contribute significantly to its desirability among enthusiasts and collectors.
The GTO’s performance prowess stems from its potent 400 cubic inch V8 engine, which delivers ample power and torque. This engine enables the GTO to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6 seconds, making it one of the fastest muscle cars of its era. Additionally, the GTO’s precise handling and responsive steering provide drivers with a thrilling and engaging driving experience.
The practical significance of understanding the connection between the 1979 GTO’s performance and its overall significance lies in its impact on the muscle car market and automotive culture. The GTO’s impressive performance solidified Pontiac’s reputation as a builder of high-performance vehicles and contributed to the popularity of muscle cars during the late 1970s.
In summary, the 1979 Pontiac GTO’s performance is a defining characteristic that sets it apart from other muscle cars. Its powerful engine, exceptional handling, and impressive acceleration make it a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts, contributing to its overall significance and desirability.
Prized for its historical significance
The 1979 Pontiac GTO holds great historical significance within the automotive industry and American car culture. Its status as the final production year of the Pontiac GTO and its embodiment of the muscle car era contribute to its historical value and desirability.
- Last of the GTO Lineage: The 1979 GTO represents the culmination of Pontiac’s iconic GTO lineage, which began in 1964. As the last model to bear the GTO name, it symbolizes the end of an era and holds a special place in automotive history.
- Epitome of the Muscle Car Era: The 1979 GTO embodies the essence of the American muscle car era. Its powerful engine, aggressive styling, and performance capabilities exemplify the characteristics that defined this period in automotive history.
- Cultural Symbol: The 1979 GTO transcended its role as a mere automobile and became a cultural symbol. It represented freedom, power, and the spirit of the 1970s, resonating with generations of enthusiasts and car lovers.
- Preservation of Automotive Heritage: The 1979 GTO plays a vital role in preserving automotive heritage. As a well-preserved example of a muscle car from its era, it serves as a tangible reminder of the technological advancements and cultural impact of this significant period in automotive history.
In conclusion, the historical significance of the 1979 Pontiac GTO stems from its status as the last of the GTO lineage, its embodiment of the muscle car era, its cultural significance, and its role in preserving automotive heritage. These factors contribute to its desirability among collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the rich history of the automobile.
FAQs on the 1979 Pontiac GTO
This section addresses frequently asked questions concerning the 1979 Pontiac GTO. It aims to provide factual and detailed answers to common inquiries, enhancing the understanding of this iconic muscle car.
Question 1: What is the significance of the 1979 Pontiac GTO?
Answer: The 1979 Pontiac GTO holds great historical importance as the final production year of the Pontiac GTO lineage. It represents the culmination of the muscle car era, embodying the power, performance, and cultural significance associated with this period in automotive history.
Question 2: What engine powers the 1979 Pontiac GTO?
Answer: The 1979 Pontiac GTO is powered by a potent 400 cubic inch V8 engine, delivering impressive power and torque. This engine contributes significantly to the GTO’s performance capabilities, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6 seconds.
Question 3: What makes the 1979 Pontiac GTO a desirable collector car?
Answer: The 1979 Pontiac GTO is a highly sought-after collector car due to its rarity, historical significance, and performance capabilities. Its status as the last of the GTO lineage, combined with its embodiment of the muscle car era, makes it a prized possession for enthusiasts and collectors.
Question 4: How many 1979 Pontiac GTOs were produced?
Answer: Pontiac produced a total of 70,512 units of the 1979 Pontiac GTO, making it a relatively rare vehicle compared to other muscle cars of the era. This limited production run contributes to its exclusivity and desirability among collectors.
Question 5: What are the key features of the 1979 Pontiac GTO?
Answer: The 1979 Pontiac GTO is characterized by its aggressive styling, powerful V8 engine, and impressive performance capabilities. It features a sleek and sporty design, with a distinctive front grille and iconic GTO badging. Inside, it offers comfortable seating and a driver-oriented cockpit.
Question 6: What is the legacy of the 1979 Pontiac GTO?
Answer: The 1979 Pontiac GTO remains an iconic symbol of the muscle car era. Its historical significance, performance prowess, and cultural impact have solidified its place in automotive history. It continues to inspire enthusiasts and collectors, serving as a reminder of the golden age of American muscle cars.
Summary: The 1979 Pontiac GTO stands as a testament to the muscle car era, embodying power, performance, and historical significance. Its rarity, desirability, and enduring legacy make it a highly sought-after vehicle among collectors and enthusiasts.
Transition to the next article section: For a more comprehensive understanding of the 1979 Pontiac GTO, explore the following sections, which delve into its specifications, performance data, and cultural impact.
Tips for Appreciating the 1979 Pontiac GTO
To fully appreciate the significance andof the 1979 Pontiac GTO, consider these insightful tips:
Tip 1: Acknowledge its Historical Importance: Recognize the 1979 GTO as the final model year of Pontiac’s iconic GTO lineage. This distinction places it as a significant milestone in automotive history, representing the culmination of the muscle car era.
Tip 2: Admire its Performance Prowess: Appreciate the GTO’s impressive performance capabilities, powered by its potent 400 cubic inch V8 engine. Experience the thrill of its acceleration and handling, which embody the raw power associated with classic muscle cars.
Tip 3: Understand its Cultural Impact: Recognize the 1979 GTO’s status as a cultural icon. It transcended its role as a mere automobile, becoming a symbol of freedom, power, and the spirit of the 1970s, resonating with generations of enthusiasts.
Tip 4: Value its Rarity: Understand that the 1979 GTO is a relatively rare vehicle, with only 70,512 units produced. This limited production run contributes to its exclusivity and desirability, making it a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts.
Tip 5: Preserve its Legacy: Recognize the importance of preserving the 1979 GTO’s legacy as a significant piece of automotive history. By maintaining and restoring these classic vehicles, we ensure that future generations can appreciate the technological advancements and cultural impact of this era.
Summary: By embracing these tips, you deepen your understanding and appreciation of the 1979 Pontiac GTO. Recognize its historical importance, performance prowess, cultural significance, rarity, and the need to preserve its legacy. These insights will enhance your enjoyment and comprehension of this iconic muscle car.
Transition to the article’s conclusion: As we conclude our exploration of the 1979 Pontiac GTO, let us appreciate its enduringand the lasting impact it has had on the automotive landscape.
Conclusion
The 1979 Pontiac GTO stands as a testament to the muscle car era, embodying power, performance, and historical significance. Its final production year marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire enthusiasts and collectors alike.
As we reflect on the enduring impact of the 1979 Pontiac GTO, let us appreciate its cultural significance and the role it played in shaping automotive history. Its aggressive styling, impressive performance, and cultural appeal have made it an enduring icon. By preserving and celebrating these classic vehicles, we ensure that future generations can experience and appreciate the legacy of the muscle car era.