Description
Pontiac LeMans GTO Cabriolet | 1972
Highlights:
– Classic American convertible muscle car
– 5.7-litre V8 engine running on LPG
– Fitted with power steering and upgraded brakes
– Imported from the USA in 2011
– Drives, brakes and shifts
The seller offers for sale this 1972 Pontiac LeMans GTO Cabriolet, a true American classic representing the muscular style and power of early 1970s Detroit automotive engineering. The car arrived in the Netherlands from the United States in 2011 and has been under the ownership of the current seller since 2018, who purchased it from a dealer in the western part of the country. Featuring a 5.7-litre V8 engine that has been converted to run on LPG, this LeMans GTO offers the distinctive rumble and performance expected of Pontiac’s performance models. It is equipped with an automatic transmission, delivering the laid-back yet powerful driving experience typical of American muscle cars of its era.
The bodywork and paint present in good condition overall, though the car shows evidence of age and use. Originally finished in a rose/purple hue, the Pontiac was resprayed in its current Bordeaux red colour at some point. The paintwork carries visible scratches and signs of wear, documented in the accompanying photographs. While structurally sound, the exterior may benefit from further cosmetic attention or partial refinishing to enhance presentation for show purposes.
The interior is described as fair, showing noticeable signs of intensive use. The synthetic leather upholstery is locally damaged and would benefit from renewal or refurbishment. Despite cosmetic wear, electrical systems, including the convertible top and power windows, remain operational. The dashboard, seats, door panels, and trim pieces display age-appropriate wear, and although the car is still usable as is, a restoration of the cabin would elevate the overall aesthetic and comfort.
Mechanically, the Pontiac is in good condition and generally reliable. The vehicle has a valid technical inspection certificate in the Netherlands and features significant technical upgrades, including a new master cylinder, new front brake discs and callipers, as well as new rear drums and shoes. The power steering system is functional, contributing to easier manoeuvring despite the car’s size. However, rust is present under the windscreen area, on the inner side where the convertible roof mechanism is located, as visible in the photos.
Pontiac’s LeMans and GTO models have secured a firm place in the annals of American motoring as icons of the muscle car era. Originally introduced as a trim option on the LeMans in the mid-1960s, the GTO quickly grew into a standalone model representing high performance and aggressive styling. By 1972, changes in emissions regulations and insurance costs were already reshaping the muscle car landscape, but the GTO still maintained the spirit of the earlier years, with bold V8 power and classic lines.
The 1972 GTO continued to offer muscular performance, although rated power outputs were lower than in the preceding years due to new SAE net horsepower measurement standards. Despite these changes, the GTO retained a loyal following, cherished for its strong performance, distinctive styling, and powerful presence. The LeMans GTO convertible, in particular, is a rarer body style, contributing to its desirability among collectors and enthusiasts.
Today, surviving examples of the GTO from the early 1970s are celebrated for their role in defining American performance car culture. They represent an era when design and performance converged in powerful and stylish packages. While models like this 1972 LeMans GTO may show age-related wear, they continue to attract enthusiasts who appreciate the unmistakable character of classic American muscle. Restored or preserved examples often feature in car shows and gatherings, keeping the legacy of the GTO alive for future generations.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
3. Good: Repairs to the bodywork and paint may be needed, possibly requiring part replacements.
Condition of the Interior
2. Fair: Noticeable signs of heavy use; may have burn marks, cracks, or permanent stains.
Technical Condition
3. Good: Generally reliable, but may need some maintenance or repairs.
Overall Condition
3. Good Condition: May need some mechanical and cosmetic repairs, but can drive.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Gelderland province, the Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.