(from Pontiac Press Release) GTO. No other name in automotive history
says "muscle car" like those three letters. When the GTO was introduced
in 1964, its performance list included words like tri-power, "four on
the floor" and a 389 cubic-inch V-8, and the car virtually defined true
street performance.
Now the legend is back.
Pontiac's 2004 GTO is a modern-day incarnation of classic street
performance. When you turn the key and hear the throaty dual exhausts
announcing the 5.7L V-8, you'll know you have your hands full. Compared
to its '60s namesake, the new GTO sports a suspension that is tighter,
an engine that's more powerful and a four-on-the-floor manual
transmission that now boasts two additional gears. The car will hit 60
mph (97 km/h) in about five-and-a-half seconds, and run the quarter mile
in under 14 seconds. There's nothing like it in its class.
The completely new GTO isn't just about horsepower, of course. Its
unique personality includes impressive cornering abilities, a smooth
ride and surprising comfort. But the heart of the GTO is indeed a truly
awesome 5.7L LS1 V-8 engine, also known as the base powerplant for the
Chevrolet Corvette. The LS1 produces an estimated 350 horsepower (261kw)
at 5200 rpm and with 365 lb.-ft. (495 Nm) of torque, it has no problem
leaving a stop with purpose.
Seventeen-inch alloy wheels and performance tires are matched to a fully
independent, performance-tuned suspension featuring direct-acting
stabilizing bars and power rack-and-pinion steering. Traction control
and a limited slip differential also come standard.
And, today's GTO revs through six forward speeds with the close-ratio
manual transmission, or you can choose a four-speed Hydra-Matic. Both
come with a 3.46:1 final drive ratio.
The GTO is, first and foremost, a driver's car. Every detail, from the
satin-finish steering wheel to the race-inspired metallic pedals, gives
the driver a sense of performance from the moment the car is entered.
The standard feature list starts off with leather 2+2 bucket seats, in
black or color-coordinated with the vehicle's exterior color. The
high-tech seats provide lateral support, wrapping around the driver and
front passenger and complementing the great handling characteristics of
the chassis. Also standard is a six-disc CD-changer with premium
10-speaker sound system, cruise control, a multi-function driver
information center, keyless entry system and a host of other features to
enhance the driving experience.
Rather than create an imitation of the original legend, the 2004 GTO
provides a contemporary interpretation of the classic Pontiac sports
coupe. The distinctive, tautly stretched exterior, aggressive lowered
stance and sleek, simple form all help express the clean, athletic
styling direction of Pontiac. Add this to the obvious performance of the
vehicle and you have a rear-wheel-drive V-8-powered premium sports coupe
wrapped in a seamless, modern design.
Bringing the GTO to a safe stop is accomplished through standard
four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated front, solid rear), part of a
four-channel anti-lock braking system. Other standard safety features
include dual front air bags, three-point safety belts for all occupants
and an Emergency Mode that automatically shuts down the engine, turns
off the fuel pump, unlocks the doors and turns on the dome light any
time the air-bag system is deployed.
Production of the 2004 Pontiac GTO will begin in September 2003 at
Holden's award-winning Elizabeth plant in Australia using the latest
techniques to ensure both measurable and "perceived" quality. Projected
annual production will be 18,000 vehicles.
