Pontiac 1/4 mile og 0-60 mph.
Noen av bilene har blitt testet til andre hastigheter også! Les og nyt, her er det kun FAKTA som gjelder, så kan han tullingen av en "NABO" som kjører rundt i en nyere "såpekopp" som gjør 0-100 på 10 sek bare grave seg ned :-) Testene er detaljerte med forskjellige modeller og utstyr, Til og med dekk-typer!
1961 - 1967
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
61 Bonneville 389 TP (348 hp)4-speed, 3.90 posi ----- @ 98 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:2.8 sec,0-60 mp: 6.9 sec,0-100 mph: 19.0 sec
Options: 8L Wt : 4100 Magazine : CR (9/61) Notes: Tires were 8.50-14 stock on 8 lug wheels. For some odd reason, a Vertex magneto ignition was added to this car for the test. No ¼ mile et was given.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
62 Catalina 421 SD 4-speed, 4.30 posi 13.9 @ 107 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:2.7 sec,0-45 mph:4.1 sec,0-60 mph:5.4 sec
Options: 8L Wt : 4500 (appox test wt) Magazine : MT (5/62)
Notes: Not officially a "Bobcat" car, but was tuned and by the Royal Racing Team. The tires used were Goodyear recap slicks, and 150 lbs. of ballast was added to the rear for traction. The exhaust pipes were disconnected from the manifolds. Poor weather (35 deg) negated dragstrip use, so the times above were taken with a stopwatch. Estimates placed this SD421 at 13.6 to 13.7 at the track, and if the engine and chassis were setup, mid 12's were predicted.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
62 Catalina 389 TP (370 hp) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 14.5 @ 95 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:2.5 sec,0-60 mp :6.5 sec,0-100 mph:16.0 sec
Options: 8L Wt : 3940 (curb), 4300 (test) Magazine : CL (7/62)
Notes: Royal Bobcat prepared (level 1). Tires were stock 8.00-14. Royal also converted the linkage on the tri-power to mechanical. The rear tail panel on this car spelled out "BOBCAT" by taking 'CAT' from Catalina, the 'O' from Pontiac, and misc. letter "B"'s from the Bonneville.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
62 Grand Prix 421 (405 hp)3-speed auto, 3.42 posi 14.3 @ 103 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:2.7 sec,0-60 mph:6.0 sec,0-100 mph:13.4 sec
Options: P/S, P/B, P/W, 8L Wt : 4330 (test) Magazine : CL (3/62)
Notes: Tires were stock 8.00-14. Spectacular performance out of the 4-barrel engine coupled with the auto trans.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
64 GTO 389 TP (348 hp) 4-speed, 3.23 posi 14.8 @ 99 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:2.7 sec,0-60 mph:6.6 sec,0-100 mph:14.9 sec
Options: None Wt : 3470 (curb) 3800 (test) Magazine : CL (6/64)
Notes: Tires were stock redlines (7.50-14). Car had manual steering and brakes, but cosmetic options included spinner hubcaps and exhaust splitters.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrai Performance
64 GTO Cpe 389 TP (348 hp)* 4-speed, 3.90 posi 13.1 @ 115 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:1.8 sec,0-60 mph:4.6 sec,0-100 mph:11.8 sec.
Options: P/S Wt : 3485 (curb) 3850 (test) Magazine : CD (3/64)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 1). Tires were stock 7.50-14 redlines. This is the famous Car and Driver test that put the GTO on the map. It was directly compared to the Ferrari GTO, but the Ferrari didn't show up for the test. Car and Driver then used an artists rendering on the front cover showing the Pontiac GTO chasing the Ferrari GTO into a corner. Created quite a controversy when "Tempest GTO : 0-100 in 11.8 sec" was announced right on the front cover. This GTO ran 12.8 @ 112 mph on slicks. *Jim Wangers recently admitted that this car had a 421 H.O engine installed prior to the test.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
65 2+2 421 HO (376 hp) 4-speed, 4.11 posi 13.8 @ 106 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:1.7 sec,0-60 mph:3.9 sec,0-100 mph:12.0 sec
Options: P/B, P/S Wt : 4155 (curb) 4400 (test) Magazine : CD (3/65)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared, but preparation unknown. Tires were 8.55x14 Firestone (non-stock). Royal Pontiac representatives were present, but did not drive. Car was tested against a Ferrari 330/GT 2+2 with a V-12 engine. The 0-60 time listed above of 3.9 seconds was a milestone mark as it was quoted as the fastest 0-60 mph time for a production car (on street tires) for decades to come. Car was tested on a cold day (44 degrees). The 2+2 was 1/3 the price of the Ferrari, and defeated it on the dragstrip, and was within 1 second on the road course. The magazine testers were extremely impressed with the 2+2.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
65 2+2 421 HO (376 hp) 4-speed, 4.11 posi 13.72 @ 100.4 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:2.5 sec, 0-60 mph : 5.2 sec
Options: P/B, P/S, 8L Wt : 4190 (curb) Magazine : PHR (4/65)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 1). Tires were M&H cheater slicks. Runs were made with exhaust pipes disconnected from the manifolds. Driver was Jack "Doc" Watson. The ¼ mile time was with one person aboard, the 0-30 and 0-60 were with two aboard. This was a 2 car test, the other car being a Royal prepped 65 GTO (see next test).
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
65 GTO 389 TP (360 hp) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 13.98 @ 101.78 mph
Addtl times: 0-30 mph : 2.6 sec, 0-60 mph : 5.4 sec
Options: None listed Wt : 3550 (curb) Magazine : PHR (4/65)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 1). Tires were M&H cheater slicks. Runs were made with exhaust pipes disconnected from the manifolds. Driver was Jack "Doc" Watson. The ¼ mile time was with one person aboard, the 0-30 and 0-60 were with two aboard. This was a 2 car test, the other car being a Royal prepped 2+2 (see previous test).
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
65 GTO 389 TP (360 hp) 4-speed, 4.11 posi 14.5 @ 100 mph
Addtl times:0-40 mph:3.6 sec, 0-60 mph:5.8 sec,0-100 mph:14.5 sec.
Options: PB, P/S Wt : 3590 (curb) 3920 (test) Magazine : CL (5/65)
Notes: Tires were 7.75x14. Purpose of this test was to order a 65 GTO the way Car Life testers would want it. An extremely long list of options included Rally 1 wheels, transistorized ignition, metallic brakes, and exhaust splitters. Times listed above are with 2 people on board. Strangely enough, the Royal Pontiac crew was consulted on how to order this GTO, and tests were performed on an identical 65 GTO to the one the Car Life crew ordered. The other car was simply tuned (no Bobcat kit), and the exhaust pipes were disconnected at the manifolds. The air cleaners were removed, and 9.0x14 M&H cheater slicks installed. With Dick Jesse of Royal Pontiac driving, the car ran 14.06 @ 102.14 mph.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
66 GTO 389 TP (360 hp) 4-speed, 3.55 posi 14.05 @ 105.14 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: P/S, P/B Wt : 3620 (test) Magazine : CD (3/66)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 1). Car also had Ram Air system. Tires were Firestone 7.75-14 Super Stock 500 street tires. This test pitted the 66 GTO against 5 other Musclecars: Olds 442, Buick GS 400, SS 396 Chevelle, Ford Fairlane GT/A, and a Mercury Comet Cyclone GT. To level the playing field, Firestone supplied the same tires to all participants. This was a long, fascinating article that compared these Musclecars on the strip as well as the road course. The manufacturers were in tremendous competition with other, and it was indeed amusing to see the lengths Ford and Mercury went through to "bend the rules". Ironically, Ford's over-prepared entries lost out in just about every category.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
66 GTO 389 TP (360 hp) 4-speed, 4.33 posi 13.04 @ 106.75 mph
Addtl times: None given
Options: P/S, P/B Wt : 3478 (ship) 3485 (curb) Magazine : CC (12/65)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 2). Tires were M&H cheater slicks. Car had Ram Air system. Car was fully prepped by Royal, and Milt Schornack drove this GTO to very impressive times. This car was shown on the cover of Car Craft, in beautiful Tiger Gold with a black top, red inner fenders, and a tiger tail coming out of the back of the hood. The Royal preparation was fairly extensive, with dual electric fuel pumps, drag shocks, air bags, Doug's headers (open for test), and different suspension bushings. This car was also ordered (from Pontiac) with a minmum of sound insulation, which shaved additional weight.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
66 GTO 389 TP (360 hp) 4-speed, 4.33 posi 12.68 @ 110 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: P/S, P/B Wt : 3485 (curb) Magazine : SS (3/66)
Notes: Same car as featured in the previous test (Car Craft - 12/65) with same mods. However, this article was geared towards making a competitive B/S Class winner. Milt Schornack once again drove. The reason for the quikcer times in this test over the previous test (see above) was that the engine was set up for B/S racing by Royal.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
66 GTO 389 TP (360 hp) 4-speed, 4.33 posi 12.75 @ 110.09 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: P/S, P/B Wt : 3482 (curb) Magazine : PHR (2/66)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 2). Tires were M&H cheater slicks. This appears to be the same car as in the previous two tests (above), but did not have the custom "Gee-To" on the side of the body. Strange, as this test is from February 1966, which was a few months after the first Car Craft test from December 1965. However, the similarities are uncanny. The setup was exactly as described in the previous two tests. Driver was again Milt Schornack. During this test, a change to 3.90 gears generated 13.08 @ 107.27. Also, taller slicks were used with both the 3.90 gears and the 4.33 gears, and the transmission was changed from a close ratio to a wide ratio 4-speed. The quickest time was the 12.75 listed with shorter slicks, 4.33 gears, and a close ratio 4-speed.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
66 GTO Cpe 389 (335 hp) 4-speed, 3.08 non-posi 15.4 @ 92 mph
Addtl times: 0-30 mph : 2.8 sec, 0-60 mph : 6.8 sec, 0-100 : 19.2 sec.
Options: P/B, P/S Wt : 3620 (curb) 3950 (test) Magazine : CL (5/66)
Notes: Tires were stock 14x6 Firestone. IZE="2" FACE="Arial">
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
66 GTO Cvt.389 TP (360 hp) 4-speed, 3.55 posi 15.50 @ 93.16 mph
Addtl times: 0-30 mph : 3.1 sec, 0-60 mph : 6.8 sec, 0-75 mph : 9.8 sec.
Options: P/B, P/S Wt : 3720 (curb) Magazine : MT (5/66)
Notes: Tires were stock 7.75-14. This 4-speed Tri-power convertible was tested against a 66 GTO hardtop with a 4-barrel and 2-speed automatic trans. Tests were conducted with 2 aboard. Severe tire spin hampered times.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
66 GTO 389 (335 hp) 2-speed, 3.23 non-posi 15.6 @ 90 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:3.0 sec,0-60 mph:7.5 sec, 0-75 mph:10.8 sec
Options: P/B, P/S Wt : 3620 (curb) Magazine : MT (5/66)
Notes: Tires were stock 7.75-14. This 2-speed automatic GTO hardtop was tested against a 66 GTO convertible equipped with a Tri-Power 389 and 4-speed trans (see above). tests were conducted with 2 aboard.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
66 GTO 389 TP (360 hp) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 14.05 @ 99.66 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: None listed Wt : --------- Magazine : MT (7/66)
Notes: Tires were M&H slicks. This test was conducted to prove the benefits of the new Ram Air package, consisting of a hotter cam, valve springs, and of course the Ram Air tub over the multiple carbs. Two other 66 GTO's were tested at the same time. The first was an identical 66 GTO to the one listed here, but had the Ram Air package installed by Royal Pontiac. The third car was the familiar race-prepped Tiger Gold 66 GTO from Royal Pontiac, but now had "ROYAL" emblazoned on the doors instead of "Gee-To" (see previous tests for more info). Milt Schornack drove all cars. No mention was made as to whether the two GTO's had the "Bobcat" package, but most likely they did. The identical equipped 66 GTO with the Ram Air package ran 13.91 @ 99.55 mph, only a .14 second improvement over the non-Ram Air car. The race-prepped GTO ran 12.84 @ 108.4, and then its' Ram Air package (cam, springs, and Ram Air tub) were removed from the car and replaced with the standard non-Ram Air parts. The result was a 13.10 @ 106.38 mph.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
67 Firebird Cvt.400 (325 hp) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 14.03 @ 103.56 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: None listed Wt : -------- Magazine : SS (3/67)
Notes: Tires were stock F70-14. This was the first run of the new 67 Firebird 400, and the editors were ecstatic. The car was merely tuned, and the runs were made with air cleaner and exhaust intact. Coincidentally, Super Stock was also testing a new 67 GTO car the same day, which was equipped with Ram Air, 4-speed, and 4.33 gears. The GTO had a best pass of 14.12 @ 100 mph. The editor mentioned that since the Firebird was 250 lbs. lighter than the GTO, the difference in times was understandable.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
67 GTO 389 (360 hp) T-400, 3.90 posi 13.89 @ 102.01 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : 3490 (curb) 3840 (test) Magazine : HR (5/67)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 1). Car had Ram Air. Tires were stock F70-14 Wide Ovals. This car was also tested without the Bobcat kit, and ran a 14.11 @ 101.23 mph.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
67 Firebird 400 (325 hp) 4 -speed, 3.36 posi 14.7 @ 98 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:2.9 sec,0-60 mph:6.5 sec, 0-100 mph:15.5 sec
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : 3580 (curb) 3980 (test) Magazine : CL (8/67)
Notes: Tires were stock E70-14 Wide Ovals. Editor staes that running this car with full test equipment on board, the 14.7 time generated in this test was second only to Hemi powered cars and the 427 Vette.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
67 GP 428 (360 hp) T-400, 3.42 posi 16.20 @ 90.80 mph
Addtl times: 0-30 mph : 4.5 sec, 0-60 mph : 8.4 sec
Options: PDB, P/S, P/W Wt : 4160 Magazine : CR (9/67)
Notes: Tires were stock. Editors were disappointed the car did not have the optional suspension and the HO engine, but otherwise loved the car.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
67 Firebird 400 (325 hp) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 12.75 @ 110.88 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: None listed Wt : 3390 (curb) Magazine : CR (9/67)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 2). Car had Ram Air. Tires were 8.50-14 M&H cheater slicks. This was an article titled "Pontiac Performance Party", and was a 3 car test between the Ram Air Firebird, a Ram Air GTO, and a 2+2 (see next two tests for GTO and 2+2 results). Drivers were Milt Schornack, Dave Warren, and John Politzer, all Royal Pontiac people. Exhaust pipes disconnected at the manifolds. Firebird had tremendous wheel hop, which limited launches to 3500 rpm, while the GTO and 2+2 could come out at 5000 rpm. Oddly enough, the Firebird and 2+2 had hood tachs, while the GTO did not.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
67 GTO 400 (360 hp) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 12.91 @ 108.56 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: None listed Wt : 3500 (curb) Magazine : CR (9/67)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 2). Car had Ram Air. Tires were 8.50-14 M&H cheater slicks. See notes from previous Firebird test on this "Pontiac Performance Party" article.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
67 2+2 421 HO (376 hp) 4-speed, 4.11 posi 13.37 @ 106.01 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: None listed Wt : 4080 (curb) Magazine : CR (9/67)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 2). Tires were 8.50 x 14 M&H cheater slicks. See notes from previous Firebird test for details on this "Pontiac Performance Party" article.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
67 GTO 400 (360 hp) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 13.09 @ 106.5 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:2.0 sec,0-60 mph:4.9 sec,0-75 mph:6.6 sec.
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : 3445 (curb) Magazine : MT (1/67)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 1). Car had Ram Air. Tires were 8.50 x 14 M&H cheater slicks. Car was tested with Hurst headers (open). This test pitted two identical Royal prepped 67 GTO's, one with a 4-speed trans, the other with a Turbo 400 automatic trans (see next test for results). The 0-30 mph, 0-60 mph, and 0-75 mph times were with 2 aboard, the ¼ mile was with one aboard. With the stock F70-14 Wide-Oval tires, this car ran 14.21 @ 102.97 mph. There was also a third 67 GTO in attendance; a 4-speed 67 GTO Ram Air car without a Bobcat kit. They ran the non-Bobcat 67 Ram Air GTO car with slicks against the Royal prepped 4-speed car, riding on F70-14's. They claimed the prepped car still shut down the non-Bobcat car everytime. Although no times were given for the non-Bobcat GTO, it is safe to say it probably ran in the low to mid 14's.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
67 GTO 400 (360 hp) T-400, 3.90 posi 13.36 @ 106 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:2.0 sec,0-60 mph:5.2 sec,0-75 mp:6.8 sec.
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : 3490 (curb) Magazine : MT (1/67)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 1). Car had Ram Air. Tires were 8.50 x 14 M&H cheater slicks. Car was tested with Hurst headers (open). This was the Turbo 400 equipped car (see previous test for more details). The 0-30 mph, 0-60 mph, and 0-75 mph times were with 2 aboard, the ¼ mile was with one aboard. With the stock F70-14 Wide-Oval tires, this car ran 14.09 @ 101 mph.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
67 GTO 400 (360 hp) T-400, 4.33 posi 14.5 @ 102 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:2.5 sec,0-60mph:6.1 sec,0-100 mph:14.0 sec.
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : 3780 (curb) 4180 (test) Magazine : CL (10/67)
Notes: Tires were F70-14 Firestone. Car had Ram Air. There was an audible miss under wide open throttle between the 1-2 shift, possibly due to worn valvesprings. The car did not run well during stop and go, and overheated frequently. However, overall, the testers loved the car. This particular article had excellent photos of the Ram Air GTO.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
67 Firebird Cvt. 400 (325 hp) T-400, 3.08 posi 15.4 @ 92 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:2.5 sec,0-60 mph:7.5 sec,0-75 mph:11.2 sec.
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : 3855 (curb) Magazine : MT (3/67)
Notes: Tires were stock F70-14. Car was tested against a 67 Firebird convertible with an OHC Sprint 6. One unusual option in this Firebird 400 was that it had a column shift.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
67 Firebird 400 (325 hp) T-400, 3.90 posi 13.60 @ 104.4 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: None listed Wt : 3560 (curb) Magazine : MT (8/67)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 1). Car had Ram Air. Tires were 7" slicks. The Ram Air Firebirds were not available yet, so Royal Pontiac installed the new Ram Air package for this test, which included the Ram Air cam, special valvesprings, Ram Air tub, and of course, opening the scoops on the hood. With stock F70-14 tires, car ran 14.05 @ 102.85 mph. Poor weather during test, strong headwinds. Another pass was attempted with the exhuast pipes disconnected from the manifolds, but ignition problems arose. Milt Schornack claimed the car should be generating sub-13 second times. This particular test also included an identically prepared 67 Firebird 400 Ram Air 4-speed car, modified with the same Bobcat kit (see next test for results).
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
67 Firebird 400 (325 hp) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 13.05 @ 109.23 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: None listed Wt : 3460 (curb) Magazine : MT (8/67)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 1). Car had Ram Air. Tires were 7" slicks. The Ram Air Firebirds were not available yet, so Royal Pontiac installed the new Ram Air package for this test, which included the Ram Air cam, special valvesprings, Ram Air tub, and of course, opening the scoops on the hood. The 13.05 time was with the exhaust pipes disconnected from the manifolds. With stock F70-14 tires, car ran 13.99 @ 105.01 mph. With slicks and closed pipes, car ran 13.24 @ 106.50 mph. Poor weather during test, strong headwinds. Milt Schornack claimed the car generated sub-13 second times the following week without the strong headwinds. This particular test also included an identically prepared 67 Firebird 400 Ram Air Turbo 400 equipped car, modified with the same Bobcat kit (see previous test for results).
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
68 Firebird 400 (335 hp) T-400, 3.36 posi 15.4 @ 93 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:2.8 sec,0-60 mph:7.6 sec,0-75 mph:11.1 sec.
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : 3740 (curb) Magazine : MT (1/68)
Notes: Tires were stock F70-14. Part of a 6 car Ponycar shootout in Motor Trend. Oddly enough, this Firebird had "Royal" liscence plate frames, but the car was not from Royal Pontiac in Royal Oak, Michigan, but from adealership in California with the same name.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
68 GTO 400 (360 hp) 4-speed, 4.33 posi 14.45 @ 98.20 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:2.8 sec,4.5 sec,0-60 mph:6.5 sec,0-75 mph:9.6 sec.
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : 3650 (curb) Magazine : MT (2/68)
Notes: Tested in the famous "Car Of The Year" Motor Trend issue, the 14.45 time was achieved using slicks. The editors first took this GTO to the dragstrip and ran @ 96 mph on street tires. The car was compared to an automatic transmission equipped GTO (see next test).
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
68 GTO 400 (350 hp) T-400, 3.23 posi 15.93 @ 88.3 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:3.1 sec,0-45 mph:4.9 sec,0-60 mph:7.3 sec
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : 3707 (curb) Magazine : MT (2/68)
Notes: Tires were stock G77-14. Not much information on this car, other than a spec sheet. These specs were used for comparison purposes vs. the Ram Air GTO in the previous test.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
68 GTO Cvt. 400 (360 hp) T-400, 3.23 posi 15.1 @ 90 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:3.1 sec,0-45 mph:4.9 sec,0-60 mph :7.3 sec
Options: PDB, P/S, HH Wt : 3707 (curb) Magazine : MT (12/67)
Notes: Part of an 8 car shootout. This car was equipped with the H.O. engine, and oddly enough, wire wheel hubcaps.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
68 GTO 400 (360 hp) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 13.02 @ 106.04 mph
Addtl times:0-60 mph:5.8 sec,0-100 mph:12.01,50-70 mph:2.8 sec.
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : -------- Magazine : CI (4/68)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 2). Driver was Milt Schornack from Royal. The time was obtained using cheater slicks. On stock F70-14's, the car ran 13.77 @ 104.8 mph. This was a RAII equipped GTO, but the factory 4.33 gears were pulled in favor of 3.90 gears BEFORE these times were recorded.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
68 GTO 400 (360 hp) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 14.53 @ 99.7 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:3.0 sec,0-60 mph:6.6 sec,0-100 mph:14.6 sec.
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : 3755 (curb) 4135 (test) Magazine : CL (5/68)
Notes: Tires were stock G77-14 BF Goodrich.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
68 GTO 400 (360 hp) 4-speed, 4.33 posi 12.93 @ 108.05 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: P/B, P/S, HH Wt : 3506 (ship) 3810 (test) Magazine : SS (11/67)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 2). Tires were M&H slicks. Car had Ram Air and Doug's headers. The slicks were mounted on Hurst wheels. Milt Schornack supervised the test, but did not drive. The headers were open for the test, and the entire exhaust system was removed from the car, shaving additional weight. Car only had 118 miles on the odometer ansd was not broken in yet.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
68 Firebird 400 HO (335 hp) T-400, 3.55 posi 14.2 @ 100.3 mph
Addtl times:0-40 mph:2.7 sec,0-60 mph:5.5 sec,0-100 mph:14.1 sec
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : 3550 (curb) Magazine : CD (3/68)
Notes: Tires were stock F70-14 Firestone. Tested on a very cold day (43 degrees). Test was a 6 car shootout between the Firebird 400 HO, Javelin SST 390, SS396 Camaro, Mustang 2+2 GT (390), Cougar XR-7 (390), and a Barracuda Formula S (340). In the mechanical and non-mechanical categories, the Firebird was the hands-down winner.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
68 GTO 428 (390 hp) T-400, 3.55 posi 13.8 @ 104 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:1.6 sec,0-60 mph:5.2 sec,0-100 mph:12.9 sec
Options: PDB, P/S, HH Wt : 3784 (curb) 4111 (test) Magazine : CD (2/68)
Notes: Royal prepared (level 3). Tires were stock G77-14. Royal Pontiac also prepared the 428 engine with level 2 mods. This was a car that could be ordered through Royal Pontiac. Tested on a very cold day (38 degrees).
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
68 Firebird 400 (330 hp) 4-speed, 4.11 posi 13.62 @ 105.88 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : 3351 (curb) 3510 (test) Magazine : HR (4/68)
Notes: Tires were Casler 7" cheater slicks. Hot Rod installed Mr. Gasket traction bars to overcome severe wheel hop. Car had Ram Air. Milt Schornack suggested that the line for the vacuum advance retard be disconnected. Also, the famous "Firebird throttle-stop" be deactivated to allow full throttle. On the stock F70x14 tires, the car ran 13.79 @ 106.38 mph.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
68 GTO 400 (350 hp) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 14.25 @ 99 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PDB, P/S, HH Wt : 3506 (curb) 3800 (test) Magazine : HR (2/68)
Notes: Tires were 7" Casler slicks. On stock G77-14 Uni-Royal tires, the car ran @ 99.11. The car had Ram Air, but the 350 hp rating was shown in the specs. Car was apparently hand polished to brilliant red luster. This particular issue of Hot Rod made a major mistake on the front cover. Across the top of the page in big, bold lettering it said, "GTO vs. Firebird : A Ram Air Pair of 400 Inchers!" Unfortunately, the plans to test the Firebird fell through, and an apology was issued in the article stating that they goofed.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
68 GTO 400 (360 hp) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 13.02 @ 107.56 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: P/B, P/S Wt : 3650 (curb) Magazine : PHR (4/68)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 2). Tires were 7" cheater slicks. Tested against a similar 68 Firebird 400 (see next test for results). Cars were driven by Sid Warren and Milt Schornack. Car had Schiefer clutch. Purpose of test was see how much performance a Royal Bobcat package would add to the car. Tested on a very cold day. On stock tires, the GTO ran 14.20 @ 102.50 mph before the Bobcat kit, and 13.85 @ 106.13 after the kit.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
68 Firebird 400 (335 hp) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 12.81 @ 109.76 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PB, P/S Wt : 3400 (curb) Magazine : PHR (4/68)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 2). Tires were 7" cheater slicks. Tested against a similar 68 GTO (see previous test for results). Cars were driven by Sid Warren and Milt Schornack. Tested on a very cold day. The Firebird ran with its' exhaust pipes disconnected from the manifolds. Car had Schiefer clutch. On street tires, the Firebird ran 13.77 @ 106.76 mph.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
68 Firebird 428 T-400, 3.90 posi 12.55 @ 110 mph
Addtl times: 0-30 mph : 3.0 sec, 0-60 mph : 4.9 sec
Options: PB, P/S Wt : 3800 (curb) Magazine : PHR (9/68)
Notes: This was Myrtle Motors conversion car. Myrtle Motors was also in the business of "tweaking" Pontiacs for customer enjoyment, just like Royal Pontiac. Although they never garnered the attention Royal Pontiac did, Myrtle Motors built some very stout cars. The mods performed by Myrtle Motors to this 428 powered Firebird were almost identical to the famous Royal Bobcat kit (level 2). Car had Ram Air. On stock F70-14 tires, the car ran 13.90 with severe tire spin. The car had 428 emblems on the hood, but for some odd reason, a 400 emblem on the trunk lid.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
69 GTO 400 (RAIV) 4-speed, 3.55 posi 14.23 @ 100.89 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PDB, P/S, P/W, HH Wt : --------- Magazine : SS (10/68)
Notes: This car was a prototype RAIV GTO, and carried the extravagent 4 inlet Ram Air system that Pontiac dubbed "Ram Air IV" because it had 4 ways to get fresh air. The baseplate looked similar to the regular production RAIV baseplate, except at the front part of the pan, two enormous 4 inch holes were cut (the foam seal used was a prototype as well, and surrounded these holes too) and two 4 inch ducts were routed up through the core support to pull fresh air (excellent photo in article). The system was dropped before production, but the name "Ram Air IV" stuck. The car was apparently NOT Bobcatted, but the driver was Milt Schornack. Milt was somewhat stunned as to why the performance was down, and after taking the GTO up and down the track a few times at different speeds, he discovered someone had mistakely put 3.55 gears and a wide ratio 4-speed in the car. Milt claimed the car should have easily been in the high 13's.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
69 Judge 400 (RAIII) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 14.41 @ 99.55 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PDB, P/S, P/W Wt : 3513 (curb) Magazine : HR (12/68)
Notes: Tires were G78-14. This was the prototype 69 GTO Judge Coupe that was used in the first magazine ads for the Judge. This particular issue of Hot Rod has a 3 page foldout on the inside cover advertising this prototype Judge. While mechanically identical to the production Judge, the prototype used a white stripe down the body that ended just before the door handle, and a variation of "The Judge" logo appeared just over the door handle.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
69 Trans Am 400 (RAIV) T-400, 3.90 posi 14.10 @ 100.78 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : 3375 (approx) 3720 (test) Magazine : HR (3/69)
Notes: Tires were F70-14 Polyglas. This was a prototype 69 Trans Am. Car was Palladium Silver with no stripes. Car was also equipped with a fiberglass hood, which never saw production. The magazine testers were extremely impressed with the Trans Am, especially in the handling department.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
69 Judge 400 (RAIII) 3-speed, 3.55 posi 13.65 @ 101.1 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PB, P/S Wt : ---------- Magazine : PHR (4/69)
Notes: Tires were Goodyear slicks. After testing this Judge, the editors were so impressed that they decided to make this car "Project Judge", which became a 4-part buildup over 4 issues (not consecutive). The car was strangley equipped with a 3-speed manual and gears, quite ill-suited for dragstrip use. With the stock Polyglas bias-ply tires, the car ran 14.05 @ 100.6 mph. The testers then bolted on the Goodyear slicks, and the time improved to 13.95 @ 99.5 mph. The slicks were too tall for the gear and transmission, hence the lower mph. They then installed Doug's headers, an advance curve kit, and rejetted the Quadrajet. The 13.65 @ 101.1 time was obtained with open headers and slicks.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
69 Judge 400 (RAIII) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 12.86 @ 109.89 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PB, P/S Wt : ---------- Magazine : PHR (6/69)
Notes: Continued from previous test. This was Part 2 of "Project Judge". The rear gear ratio was changed from 3.55 to 3.90. With open headers and slicks, the car then ran 13.55 @ 105.88 mph. The next step was to replace the 3-speed manual transmission with a 4-speed, and a Royal Bobcat kit (level 2) was installed. A Weber clutch was added to handle the additional dragstrip runs. In this trim, the car ran 13.20's @ 108 mph. Finally, stickier slicks were installed on 5-slot aluminum rims, and the time dropped to 12.86 @ 109.89 mph.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
69 Judge 400 (RAIII) 4-speed, 4.33 posi 12.62 @ 110.7 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PB, P/S Wt : ---------- Magazine : PHR (8/69)
Notes: Continued from previous test. This was Part 3 of "Project Judge". A Carter electric fuel pump and Line-Loc were added, as well as air bags in the rear coils for improved traction. With open headers and slicks, the Judge ran 12.70 @ 110.29 mph. The next step was to replace the 3.90 gears with 4.33 gears, and slightly taller slicks were used. This resulted in a 12.62 @ 110.70 mph time.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
69 Judge 400 (RAIV) 4-speed, 4.33 posi 12.25 @ 113.92 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PB, P/S Wt : ---------- Magazine : PHR (12/69)
Notes: Continued from previous test. This was Part 4 of "Project Judge". As you can see, the engine is now changed to a RAIV. Milt Schornack built a RAIV engine back at the Royal Pontiac shop that included JE pistons, and the heads were carefully prepped. By going to the RAIV engine, new headers were installed. Also, a flex fan and new heavy duty clutch were installed. With open headers and slicks, "Project Judge" ran 12.25 @ 113.92 mph. The editors stated that the car was still extremely streetable.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
69 GTO 400 (350 hp) 4-speed, 3.55 posi 14.9 @ 98.3 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:3.0 sec,0-45 mph:4.8 sec,0-60 mph:7.2 sec
Options: PDB, P/S, HH Wt : 3672 (curb) Magazine : MT (1/69)
Notes: Tires were stock F70-14. All tests were conducted with 2 people aboard. Car was not equipped with Ram Air. Test was part of a 6 car shootout including a Buick GS400, SS396 Chevelle, Torino Cobra 428, 440 Charger R/T, and a 440 GTX.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
69 GTO 400 (RAIV) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 12.62 @ 109.52 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PDB, P/S, HH Wt : --------- Magazine : PHR - Engine Hop Ideas 1970
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 2). Tires were 8.00-8.50 x14 Goodyear cheater slicks. Driver was Milt Schornack. This test involved a shootout between this 69 Royal Bobcat RAIV GTO and a Royal Bobcat 65 GTO Tri-power. The 69 GTO had a Schiefer Rev-Lok pressure plate and clutch, Doug's Headers (2" primary, 3-1/2" collectors), and was treated to a full Royal Pontiac prep, including cc'ing the heads. This was the Crystal Turquiose 69 GTO with the special Royal Pontiac paint scheme (white valence panel, hood stripe, rocker panels stripes, and trunk lid) that would eventually be fitted with a RAV engine. The 12.62 time listed was with open headers and cheater slicks. In street trim (closed pipes, street tires) the car ran 13.42 @ 108.42 mph. Very cold day for testing, with stiff head winds.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
69 Firebird 400 (RAIII) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 13.54 @ 107.02 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : ---------- Magazine : S&S (8/69)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 2). Tires were 7" cheater slicks. Royal Pontiac sent this car with a 1968 Ram Air system, most likely because the 1969 system was a bit complex and did not flow enough air. The car was Carousel Red. The road test times were NOT quoted in this test, but the editors stated it ran mid to high 13's. So where did the 13.54 shown above come from? In a October 1984 issue of High Performance Pontiac, Joe Oldham wrote a lengthy article about the original road test back in 1969. The photos shown were of the same car, same license plates, same dragstrip. The timeslips read 13.54 @ 107.02 mph. The focus of the October 1984 HPP article was what they did with the car AFTER the dragstrip. They were involved in some wild street racing activities. I highly recommend tracking this issue of HPP down. The article was called "Night Shift". Although Joe's recollection of the street racing activities was fascinating, he mistakely stated that the car was a RAIV car. In his original article back in 1969, they made it quite clear that this was NOT a RAIV car, but a 335 hp RAIII.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
69 Firebird 350 HO 4-speed, 4.33 posi 12.59 @ 110.29 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: (see Notes) Wt : 3460 (curb) 3350 (after mods) Magazine : SS (3/69)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 2 and beyond). Tires were 9.00/9.50x14 slicks. This was a fully prepped Royal race car designed to compete in the F/S drag racing class. The car was red with white Trans Am stripes (flat hood) and the lower rear quarters were also white, blending into the white tail panel, and ROYAL Racing Team in large lettering on the sides. Car had the twin hood tach nacelles, one housing a hood tach, the other was for the Ram Air option on the 350 HO (shown in the 1969 Firebird brochure). Chassis was setup by Royal, and the 350 engine was built to NHRA stock class specs (stock intake, carb, and cc'd heads). Car had Doug's headers, Schiefer racing clutch, electric fuel pump, forged pistons, and a custom oil pan. The power steering pump and power brakes were removed to shave weight. They then proceeded to remove the radio and all the interior sound deadener, as well as the rear seat and passenger seat. The radiator and battery were replaced with standard duty units to cut weight. The heater was left in place as per NHRA stock class rules. Test was conducted on a cold day (35 degrees) and the track was dusty. This was the same car that soon received a RAV engine (see next test).
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
69 Firebird 400 (RAV) 4-speed, 4.88 posi 11.65 @ 121 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: (see Notes) Wt : 3400 (approx) Magazine : Drag Racing (7/69)
Notes: Royal Pontiac prepared (level 2 and beyond). See previous test on 69 350 HO Firebird for details on car. Tires were 8.9x15 slicks on Fenton wheels. Purpose of test was to see how fast the RAV engine was. The mods performed in the previous test (350 HO) are all intact, but with the RAV we include new Doug's headerst, Hurst shifetr, Line-Loc, an aluminum Schiefer flywheel, and Lakewood traction bars. Oddly enough, the car was now wearing the factory "400" style twin scooped hood with a hood tach. Driver was Milt Schornack. Engine mods included a Crane cam, with which the car went from 119 mph to 121 mph. Milt shifted the car 6700-6800 rpm. The RAV heads were cc'd, but not touched otherwise. The engine was a tired "test" engine, was not blueprinted, and needed new pistons. Milt said that with a fresh engine and a new "Rock Crusher" trans, 11.30's at 125 mph would not be surprising if conditions were right.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
69 Trans Am 303 (RAV) T-400, 3.90 posi 16.37 @ 93.5 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:4.6 sec,0-60 mph:8.8 sec,0-100 mph:18.22 sec
Options: None listed Wt : 3980 (test) Magazine : MT (10/69)
Notes: This was a qucik test of the new 303 Ram Air V engine as installed in the 69 Trans Am. The estimated top speed was 135 mph @ 6300 rpm. The gear ratio was inapproriate for the high winding little 303.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
69 Grand Prix 428 (370 hp) T-400, 3.23 posi 16.5 @ 86 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:3.6 sec,0-60 mph:9.5 sec,0-75 mph:14.0 sec
Options: PDB, P/S, A/C Wt : ---------- Magazine : MT (10/68)
Notes: Tires were G78-14. This particular Grand Prix had already been thrashed by the Pontiac engineers, and a mention was made that the engine was "well-worn". Times were also given for this car without A/C, and they were approximately 1 second quicker in the 0-60 mph time.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
70 GTO 400 (RAIV) T-400, 3.23 posi 14.50 @ 97.76 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: None listed Wt : --------- Magazine : PHR (6/70)
Notes: Tires were G70-14 Uni Royals. Car was bright red, and was equipped with hood pins. The 3.23 was totally inappropriate for the RAIV engine, and traction was very poor with the stock tires.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
70 GTO 455 (360 hp) T-400, ------- 13.98 @ 101.88 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PDB, P/S, A/C Wt : -------- Magazine : HC (5/70)
Notes: Tires were G78-14's. Car had Ram Air and hood tach. The article was less than flattering about the new 455 GTO. While the 13.98 time seems respectable, in this same issue of the Hot Cars they also tested a 70 LS-6 Chevelle, 70 W-30 442, and a 70 Buick GS Stage 1. The GTO was the slowest of the bunch, but seemed to be the only car equipped with A/C and a standard rear axle ratio (not listed, but assuming a 3.31 w/ac).
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
70 GTO 455 (360 hp) 4-speed, 3.31 non-posi 15.0 @ 96.5 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:2.4 sec,0-60 mph:6.6 sec,0-100 mph:16.0 sec
Options: PDB, P/S, A/C, P/W, P/DL Wt : 4209 (curb) Magazine : CD (1/70)
Notes: Tires were G70-14 Firestone. Car was fully loaded, but oddly enough, a 4-speed was ordered without posi.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
70 Judge 400 (RAIII) 4-speed, 3.55 posi 14.77 @ 94.42 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : 3780 (test) Magazine : RT (4/70)
Notes: Tires were G70-14. Car had hood tach and hood pins. The magazine testers were disappointed in the fit and finish of the Endura bumper, and general mis-alignment of the front panels, but overall liked the car.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
70 Grand Prix 455 (370 hp) T-400, 3.07 gears 15.5 @ 88 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:3.0 sec,0-60 mph:7.8 sec,0-75 mph:11.4 sec
Options: PDB, P/S, A/C Wt : 3885 (curb) Magazine : MT (11/69)
Notes: Tires were G78-14.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
70 Grand Prix 455 (370 hp) T-400, 3.23 posi 14.19 @ 102.99 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PDB, P/S, A/C, P/W, P/DL, P/seat Wt : 4400 (curb) Magazine : CR (9/70)
Notes: Tires were G78-14. Purpose of test was to see how this heavyweight would do at the dragstrip with some tuning. In stock form, the car ran 15.25 @ 99 mph. A switch to F70-14 tires, and the car went 14.93 @ 99 mph. Finally, mods to the Quadrajet carb, an advance curve kit, and 4.10 gears were installed, resulting in a 14.19 @ 102.99 mph pass.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
70 Trans Am 400 (RAIV) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 14.5 @ 99 mph
Addtl times: 0-60 mph : 6.5 sec
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : ---------- Magazine : MT (2/70)
Notes: Tires were F60-15. Tests were with 2 people aboard. Not much info on the actual test, but a great deal of info on the new 1970 Firebirds.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
70 GTO 400 (RAIII) 4-speed, 3.90 posi 14.60 @ 99.55 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:2.5 sec,0-60 mph:6.0 sec,0-100 mph:14.7 sec
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : 3830 (curb) 4230 (test) Magazine : CL (4/70)
Notes: Tires were G70-14 Uni Royal. Car was tested against a 1970 GTO 455 (see next test for results).
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
70 GTO 455 (360 hp) T-400, 3.55 posi 14.76 @ 95.94 mph
Addtl times:0-30 mph:2.9 sec,0-60 mph:6.6 sec,0-100 mph:16.2 sec
Options: PDB, P/S, A/C Wt : 4055 (curb) 4455 (test) Magazine : CL (4/70)
Notes: Tires were G70-14 Firestone. Car was tested against a 1970 GTO RAIII (see previous test for results). Car had Ram Air.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrai Performance
71 GT-37 400 (300 hp) 4-speed, 3.55 posi 14.40 @ 97.50 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PDB, P/S Wt : 3675 (test) Magazine : HR (6/71)
Notes: Tires were G70-14 BF Goodrich bias ply. The time above was with the air filter removed. Car had a bench seat.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
73 GTO 455 (250 hp) T-400, 3.42 posi 14.70 @ 91 mph
Addtl times: 0-60 mph : 7.6 sec
Options: PDB, P/S, A/C Wt : 3800 (curb) Magazine : CR (8/73)
Notes: Tires were G60-15 Polyglas GT bias ply. Car had a bench seat, column shift, towing package, air shocks, power sunroof, and "moon" hubcaps.
Yr Car Engine Drivetrain Performance
74 Trans Am 455 (SD) T-400, 3.08 posi 14.25 @ 100.93 mph
Addtl times: None
Options: PDB, P/S, A/C, P/W Wt : 3762 (curb) 4010 (test) Magazine : SS (6/74)
Notes: Tires were GR70-15 Goodyear radials. Only modification was open hood scoop. Car was tested on a very cold day (low 40's), which hampered traction. Magazine testers were so impressed that they made this their next project car.