In the early 1970s, Pontiac introduced a new model that combined the base Tempest’s affordability with the legendary GTO’s performance.
The GT-37, produced for just two model years in 1970 and 1971, was a sleeper muscle car that flew under the radar of insurance companies while still packing a serious punch.
By keeping the exterior simple and unassuming, Pontiac could offer the GT-37 at a lower price than the GTO, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who still wanted the thrill of a high-performance vehicle.
But just how much power did these unassuming muscle cars actually have?
Engine Options: From the 350 to the Mighty 455 HO
One of the key selling points of the GT-37 was its diverse range of engine options. In 1970, buyers could choose from three Pontiac V8 engines:
- 350 cubic inch with 255 horsepower
- 400 cubic inch with 265 horsepower
- 400 cubic inch with 345 horsepower
For the 1971 model year, the engine lineup saw some changes. The base engine remained the 350 cubic inch V8, now rated 250 horsepower. The 400 cubic inch engine was still available but with a slightly reduced output of 300 horsepower.
However, the real star of the show was the new 455 cubic inch V8, which came in two flavors:
- 455 with 325 horsepower
- 455 HO (High Output) with a whopping 335 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque
The 455 HO, with its 8.4:1 compression ratio and performance-tuned camshaft, was the ultimate powerplant for the GT-37, transforming the unassuming hardtop into a true force to be reckoned with on the street.
Transmission Options & Performance
To harness the power of these impressive engines, the GT-37 offered a choice of transmissions. A three-speed manual transmission was standard, while a four-speed manual and a three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic were options.
The combination of potent engines and well-matched transmissions resulted in impressive performance figures for the GT-37.
A 1970 model equipped with the 400 cubic inch, 345 horsepower V8, and a four-speed manual transmission could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds and complete the quarter-mile in 14.4 seconds at 99 mph.
Styling & Interior
While the GT-37’s exterior was intentionally understated to keep insurance rates low, it still featured subtle styling cues that hinted at its performance potential. These included:
- Dual exhaust
- Hood pins
- Rally wheels
- Special GT-37 badges and stripes
Inside, the GT-37 was equipped with a Muncie three-speed floor shifter, giving the car a sporty feel despite its budget-oriented trim.
The GT-37’s Place in Pontiac History
Although the GT-37 was only produced for two years, it left a lasting impact on Pontiac’s history. It demonstrated that the brand could offer a high-performance vehicle at an affordable price, making muscle car ownership accessible to a broader audience.
Today, the GT-37 is a rare and sought-after classic, with well-preserved examples commanding significant prices at auction.
Its unique combination of sleeper styling and raw performance continues to resonate with enthusiasts who appreciate the car’s place in Pontiac’s rich heritage of muscle cars.
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Nancy Maffia
Nancy received a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.