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Pontiac Tempest Gasser, 1961

Pontiac Tempest I

Pontiac Tempest I•‌
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Chassis No.: 161P60601

  • Exterior: White
  • Interior: Red
  • Body: Gasser
  • 350 CI small block engine
  • Hilborn electronic fuel injection
  • Fender well headers
  • 4-speed transmission
  • 4.88 Ford 9 inch rear end
  • Strange axles
  • 4-wheel disc brakes
  • Wheelie bar
  • Refreshed in Pearl White
  • Original interior
  • Fuel cell
  • Trunk mounted batteries
  • Rear slicks

Nostalgia is a strong motivator, and when it is inspired by personal memories it can be transformative. Just ask the builder of this high-stepping 1961 Pontiac Tempest, who targeted the very moment when Pontiac’s fleet of Super Duty drag racers were beginning the transformation from closely regulated Super Stock competition to the no-holds-barred world of radical factory-experimental match racers. Based on a solid two-door coupe, it follows the drag-racing formula down to the finest details.

A 350 CI small-block V-8 provides the basis for the car’s powertrain, and while it benefits from such advances as the Hilborn electronic fuel injection in place of the less sophisticated mechanical system, it still gets the visual cues right with its trademark injection stacks and fender well headers. From the twin hood and fender cutouts to the hand-fabricated aluminum shrouding strategically placed over the fan and header tubes, the installation is clean and professional. The driveline is standard FX fare: a Hurst-shifted 4-speed manual with Line Lock, and a Ford 9-inch with 4.88:1 gears and Strange axles.

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Aficionados will like the pairing of chromed ET-style 10-spoke front wheels and polished-rim Halibrands mounting period-look drag slicks, the better to execute the skyward launches that necessitate the car’s extra-length twin wheelie bars. Riding in nose-up fashion by virtue of its tube front axle, this retro-gasser also features trunk-mounted batteries and fuel cell. Pearl White paint and the original and very clean Red interior are the perfect finish for a car built to replicate a factory special.

https://www.mecum.com/lots/214262/1961-pontiac-tempest-gasser/

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Pontiac Tempest

I 1961 — 1963

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