EDMUNDS.COM 2004 PONTIAC GTO
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
It''s got the power and the performance to wear the GTO name, but uninspired styling and an expensive price make it less likely to become a cult hit like its predecessor.
Pros
Powerful V8, rear-wheel drive, predictable handling from fully independent suspension, loaded with standard features.
Cons
Forgettable styling, numerous standard features make it an expensive proposition.
What''s New for 2004
The GTO is an all-new rear-wheel-drive performance car from Pontiac. Although it is new to the U.S. market, it is based on a car sold by GM''s Australian subsidiary, Holden, under the Monaro nameplate.
Overview
Introduction:
The GTO legend started back in 1964, when Pontiac offered Tempest/Le Mans buyers a GTO option package. That performance-enhancing option proved so popular that the GTO became its own model and is often credited as the first true "muscle car." Although some purists would say the "real" GTO died in 1973, the GTO name lasted until 1974 when the car was based on the Pontiac Ventura, itself a thinly disguised Chevy Nova. With only 200 horsepower and distinct Nova looks, it''s easy to see why many do not consider the ''74 to be a true GTO. As the performance dwindled, so did the popularity of the GTO and sales swiftly declined. The introduction of the more realistic "net" horsepower rating in the early ''70s couldn''t have helped, as it was surely difficult for local dealers to explain why a ''71 GTO with a 400-cubic-inch V8 produced only 255 hp. By 1972, some of the GTO''s former glory was restored, but the dark cloud of emissions control and government-mandated bumpers loomed large, and the once proud Pontiac became nothing more than just another GM clone. Miraculously, GM has resisted slapping the GTO badge on anything since 1974. It seems all the more curious given how fast and loose Chevrolet plays with its once coveted "SS" moniker. We can''t help but wonder how close the first Grand Prix GTP came to being labeled a GTO, but thankfully those in charge at Pontiac realized that "GTO" shouldn''t be within a mile of a front-wheel-drive V6 automobile -- V8s only, please! This year, GM is able to deliver on that promise thanks to a little help from its Holden division in Australia. The Holden Monaro CV8 is the basis for the 2004 GTO, and like GTOs of the past, the new version is a 2+2 coupe. The Holden will receive styling revisions to make it look more like a Pontiac, so look for the twin grille and a slightly familiar rear end treatment that says "Pontiac" even from 20 yards away. As this GTO is powered by GM''s LS1 V8 making about 350 hp, Pontiac is hoping the car will perform like a real muscle car as well. A four-speed automatic transmission is standard, and all GTOs come with four-wheel antilock disc brakes, as well as a limited slip rear end and traction control. An optional six-speed manual transmission only adds to the fun, and with a fully independent, performance-tuned suspension and 17-inch wheels wrapped in performance tires, the car should be able to hold its own in the corners. If nothing else, the GTO should prove to be a successful image booster for Pontiac. It seems to fit nicely with the more powerful and redesigned Grand Prix GTP as well as the V8-powered Bonneville GXP.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The Pontiac GTO is offered as a 2+2 sport coupe in one, generously appointed trim level. The standard features list includes full leather trim (seats, steering wheel, shift handle); a premium Blaupunkt audio system with an in-dash six-disc CD changer; keyless entry; eight-way power-adjustable front seats; a trip computer; power windows, locks and mirrors; air conditioning; cruise control; and 17-inch aluminum wheels. Aside from choosing a transmission, there are no additional options.
Powertrains and Performance:
There is only one engine available on the GTO -- an LS1-derived 5.7-liter V8 rated at 350 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. The standard transmission is a four-speed overdrive automatic, but a six-speed, close-ratio manual transmission is available as an option. Regardless of which transmission is selected, all GTOs come with a limited-slip differential, a 3.46-to-1 final drive ratio and electronic traction control. Pontiac claims the GTO can accelerate to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds and finish a quarter-mile in less than 14 seconds.
Safety:
All GTOs come standard with four-wheel antilock disc brakes, electronic traction control, multistage front airbags and an emergency mode that shuts down the vehicle''s systems and unlocks the doors in the event of an airbag deployment.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
Unlike the original GTO, this modern-day version is no stripper. Leather-trimmed seats; a 200-watt, 10-speaker sound system; and a comprehensive trip computer all come standard. The overall design is straightforward with large analog gauges and an easy-to-use climate control system. The rear seats are tight as you might expect, but they''ll come in handy on quick trips or as additional storage space.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
Given its LS1 engine and rear-drive configuration, comparisons to the now defunct Firebird are a given. The most notable difference is the feel of the independent rear suspension as it delivers less skittishness over rough pavement while cornering. The overall sensation is of a slightly more refined and smaller F-body with a nicer interior.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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