Introduced in 1964, the Pontiac GTO is considered one of the very first high-power muscle cars. But while it was impressively powerful for the mid-1960s, it couldn't keep up with some range-topping offerings from the late 1960s and early 1970s. This Pure Stock Muscle Car Drag Race shows that a 1965 GTO was no match for the legendary 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454.
The GTO debuted with a 6.4-liter V8 in 1964, an engine that received a few upgrades for 1965. Thanks to revised cylinder heads and high-rise intake manifolds, the 389 generated 360 horsepower and 424 pound-feet (575 Nm) of torque. This pristine-looking, red-painted example features a four-speed manual for old-school, row-your-own fun.
The Chevelle SS 454 needs no further introduction. Developed during the second generation (1968-1972), this Chevelle rolled off the assembly line with the monstrous 7.4-liter LS6 V8. Sporting four-bolt mains, forged aluminum pistons, forged crank and rods, a solid lifter cam, aluminum intake manifold, and Holley 780 carburetor, this mill was rated at an incredible 450 horsepower and 500 pound-feet (678 Nm) of torque.
These numbers enable the 50-year-old Chevelle to keep up with most modern muscle cars, so it's far from surprising that it can leave a 1965 GTO well behind in a drag race.
Speaking of that, these classic muscle cars lineup up for a best two out of three face-off. And the Chevelle wins the first race with a 13.25-second run, while the GTO is almost half a second slower. Both cars perform better during the second leg, but the gap is even bigger. The Chevelle moves into the 12s with a 12.82-click sprint, while the GTO crosses the line after 13.45 seconds. Impressively enough, the Chevy hits a trap speed of 109.43 mph (176.11 kph).
The third race is actually a close contest, but the Chevelle driver had already won the duel. Both cars have some serious traction issues upon take-off, so they get back into the 13s. The Chevy wins by fewer than two tenths, but it hits 109 mph again, notably more than the GTO.
Ask Ciprian about cars and he'll reveal an obsession with classics and an annoyance with modern design cues. Read his articles and you'll understand why his ideal SUV is the 1969 Chevrolet K5 Blazer. Full profile
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