Pontiac
The first muscle car (1964). 389 V8 in a mid-size LeMans created the formula every American muscle car copied.
The Pontiac GTO is widely credited as the first true muscle car. The original 1964 GTO was a Pontiac LeMans with the 389 V8 (originally optional on the larger Bonneville) fitted as an option. The car was the brainchild of Pontiac chief engineer John DeLorean (later of DeLorean DMC-12 fame), who pushed the option through GM resistance to create a high-performance compact car. The 1964-1967 first generation GTO is the most collectible. The 1968-1972 "judge" variant added focused performance. The 2004-2006 modern GTO (rebadged Holden Monaro) brought the nameplate back briefly. Production of the original GTO ended in 1974 with the second oil crisis. Modern GTO prices have appreciated. Clean original 1964-1967 GTOs sell for $40,000-$80,000+ at auction; rare variants (442 Tri-Power, GTO Judge) command higher prices. On WhipJury, GTO submissions are uncommon but always memorable, particularly classic 1964-1967 examples.
First (1964-1967). Original. Most collectible.
Second (1968-1972). Judge variant introduced.
Third (1973-1974). Final original GTO.
Modern (2004-2006). Rebadged Holden Monaro. Brief revival.