KarFarm recently showcased some of the ways GM is planning to survive these tough times, but now the writing has been set in stone. GM has amended and updated their original Viability Plan, which was released back in February. With this update, they have narrowed their focus, and have a swift plan of attack to keep their ailing company afloat in the rough seas they found themselves in. While their future is uncertain still, one can only hope this is the keystone to keep their empire from crumbling.
Building off their previous releases, their updated viability plan cements the brands that will continue. Chevy, Caddy, Buick and GMC will soldier on as mentioned in the past, but the news here is the confirmed death of Pontiac. By the end of 2010, Pontiac is dead in the water.
To mourn the future passing of a great American brand, let’s take a look at some of the highlights of Pontiac throughout the years. Since 1926, they have had many noteworthy models, and here are the best.
1958 Bonneville Coupe: With options weaned down from the launch year 1957, the Bonneville was a fairly affordable, stylish car, with a Tri Power V8 engine. Used as a Pace Car for the 1958 Indianapolis 500 race, it was a radical and needed change to their lineup.
1961 Tempest: From the innovative torque tube drivetrain (seen used again on the C5 Corvette), to fully independent suspension, the Tempest was a technical marvel brought to the light by John DeLorean. It went on to win Motor Trends “Car of the Year” award that year. It’s optional and very rare 215 C.I. (3.5L) Aluminum Alloy V8 went on to live a long successful life throughout GM, and later in various forms throughout British Leyland/Rover products. Finding a Tempest with the 3.5L will stop most car collectors hearts.
1969 GTO “The Judge:” The ultimate GTO offering from Pontiac. It took the first true muscle car, and upped the ante. With a Ram Air III engine, Hurst “T” shifter, wide tires and a slightly functional rear spoiler, it was the best of the breed. Pontiac’s clever marketing team had a lot of fun with this name, making clever ads to help ensure successful sales in a saturated market.
1988 Fiero GT: While not fondly remembered, the Fiero was a fantastic car. Pontiac broke the mold with it’s mid engine drivetrain, responsive handling, but best of all, low price. In 1988, the Fiero GT offered great straight line performance, accurate handling, better brakes, but sadly marked the end of America’s foray into high volume, mid engine production.
2002 Firehawk: Pontiac gave a Firebird to SLP, and this monster was the result. With up to 345 under-rated horsepower on tap, this was the quickest modern Firebird produced. Bald faced kids can get one of these to run a low 13 sec 1/4 mile, and the pros can trip the lights in the 12′s.
2008 G8: Swiftly replacing three models at once, this RWD beast from Down Under is recommended for it’s high performance to dollar ratio. As a slightly reworked Holden Commodore, a car that has done battle with BMW’s sublime 5-series for years, you get gobs of horsepower, optional manual transmission, power going to the correct wheels, and a low entry price.
It’s been a fun ride Pontiac. May you rest in peace in the big drive in up in the sky, with nothing but “Smokey and the Bandit” and “Knight Rider” playing on the big screen. We’ll miss you.
-KF
