1966 Pontiac GTO Coupe (LHD)

Pontiac launched the legendary GTO in 1964 and to many people this was the first real muscle car. The combination of an intermediate (mid-size) car with a big-block V8 first became an option on the Tempest Le Mans range of coupes, convertibles or hardtops in October 1963. The first generation GTO was normally equipped with a 389-cid V8 rated at 325 hp, using a single four-barrel carburettor but for those needing more grunt the Tri-Power option was available, along with a whole array of suspension, brake and transmission upgrades. For 1965, the GTO was mildy restyled and the following year it became a stand-alone model rather than just a performance option, with curvaceous new "Coke bottle" styling in three guises; sports coupe, hardtop or convertible. Inside, the GTO received new Strato bucket seats and a revised instrument panel, with walnut veneer. Under the hood, the same choice of engines as for the previous year meant buyers could choose from the 335 hp 389-cid or the 360 hp Tri-Power option. Pontiac definitely hit all the right buttons in 1966, with sales of "The Goat" reaching an all time high of 96,946. Ferrari may have invented the Gran Turismo Omologato but it was Pontiac who brought power to the people with their muscular namesake and these often underrated muscle cars are now finally receiving the recognition they have long deserved.