1970 Pontiac GTO Ram Air III – 4-Speed Manual | Palladium Silver
Numbers-Matching Drivetrain | Original Interior | Factory Ram Air III | Muncie M20 | Safe-T-Track

Exterior
For 1970, GM introduced a series of design refinements to the GTO, and this example highlights them all in factory-correct Palladium Silver. The front end features smaller dual grilles flanking the iconic body-colored Endura bumper, with quad headlights set at each corner. Below, the front valance showcases more aggressive square parking lights, while above, the sculpted hood features Pontiac’s legendary twin-nostril Ram Air intakes—functional and factory-correct.

This GTO wears its original lines with pride. Bright stainless trim surrounds the windshield and continues around the body via stainless wheel well accents, rocker moldings, and straight chrome door handles. A correct chrome side mirror adds a period touch. Though the respray holds up well overall, a few paint flaws and inclusions are noted on the lower panels, along with some cracking in the Endura bumper—common for these models.

At the rear, 1970-specific wraparound taillights replace the earlier arrowhead markers, flanking a gleaming chrome bumper. The finishing touch? Black GTO callouts on the front fenders and trunk lid, ensuring no one mistakes this muscle machine for anything else. 15-inch Pontiac Rally II wheels round out the aggressive factory-correct stance.

Interior
Step inside and you’re greeted by a remarkably preserved and correct dark green interior. The crack-free dashboard houses original gauges with a wood appliqué surround and a turned aluminum lower panel. Between the front bucket seats sits a new Hurst shifter in the factory console—a must-have for any 4-speed GTO.

The upholstery, both front and rear, presents beautifully, with only minor wear noted on the driver’s seat. Door panels retain their original hardware and trim, proudly wearing red-inlaid GTO emblems. The original three-spoke PMD steering wheel is present and now features a tasteful leatherette wrap. Green carpeting and chrome-trimmed pedals complete the vintage vibe, while the trunk area is finished with correct spatter paint, liner, jack, and a full-size spare.

Drivetrain
Powering this beast is a numbers-matching 400ci Ram Air III V8 (WT block, casting #12 heads), dressed in correct Pontiac blue and breathing through a 4-barrel carburetor. Factory chrome valve covers and a chrome air cleaner lid add subtle flash to the otherwise clean and correct engine bay.

Backing the motor is the original Muncie M20 4-speed manual transmission, also numbers-matching, which sends power to the pavement via a 10-bolt Safe-T-Track rear end with 3.55 gears. The drivetrain performs beautifully and provides the raw, visceral experience GTOs are celebrated for.

Undercarriage
Underneath, you’ll find an honest mix of factory finishes and tasteful upgrades. The frame shows light surface rust and patina, but remains solid and structurally sound. Suspension consists of independent front and 4-link rear setups. Braking is handled by drum brakes at all four corners—factory correct.

A dual exhaust system with new Flowmaster mufflers gives this GTO the deep rumble it deserves. Other recent updates include new fuel lines, a new starter, and a powder-coated radiator support—a subtle but appreciated touch that shows attention to detail.