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The Pontiac GTO 2004-2006, a rebadged Aussie import, hit American shores with a roar reminiscent of its ’60s glory days. Powered by a 5.7L V8, it was less “muscle car” and more “muscle diplomat,” bridging automotive cultures. Despite its potent engine, it was met with a lukewarm reception—like serving Vegemite at a backyard BBQ. With only 40,808 units sold, it seems American buyers were more smitten with the Mustang’s mane than this GTO’s growl.
The fourth-gen Pontiac GTO, an Aussie import dressed as a muscle car, was born from a mix of Bob Lutz’s road trip and nostalgia for ’60s exhaust notes. Despite its Corvette heart and speed worthy of a drag strip, it struggled stateside, overshadowed by flashier Mustangs and Magnums. Imagine paying over $34k for a car that looks like it should come with an ‘I wish I were a Mustang’ bumper sticker. Even with tweaks and a new engine in 2005, it was more misfit than muscle, selling fewer than expected.