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It was clear to most enthusiasts by 1966 that midsize models had seized the muscle car mantle. Detroit, however, was reluctant to relinquish its time-tested biggest-car/best-engine formula. Given that, it was no accident that the leader in intermediate muscle also put together the finest full-size performance machine -- the 1966 Pontiac 2+2.
It was clear to most enthusiasts by 1966 that midsize models had seized the muscle car mantle. Detroit, however, was reluctant to relinquish its time-tested biggest-car/best-engine formula. Given that, it was no accident that the leader in intermediate muscle also put together the finest full-size performance machine -- the 1966 Pontiac 2+2.
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Pontiac first offered the 2+2 as a Catalina engine, suspension, and trim group in 1964. For '65, the 421-cid V-8 became a standard part of the option package, and for '66, Pontiac made the 2+2 a separate model, still based on the Catalina two-door hardtop or convertible. Flamboyantly styled and expansively proportioned, the 2+2 was unbeatable for sheer presence. It also could hold its own against a range of performance cars.
Pontiac first offered the 2+2 as a Catalina engine, suspension, and trim group in 1964. For '65, the 421-cid V-8 became a standard part of the option package, and for '66, Pontiac made the 2+2 a separate model, still based on the Catalina two-door hardtop or convertible. Flamboyantly styled and expansively proportioned, the 2+2 was unbeatable for sheer presence. It also could hold its own against a range of performance cars.
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The basic package included the heavy-duty suspension, with even stiffer springs and shocks available. Buckets and a console were added to the top-line Catalina interior, which could be optioned with a sport steering wheel and instrumentation that included a tachometer and oil-pressure gauge. Unique exterior features included "2+2" badges, twin lens taillamps, and chrome bodyside gills; Pontiac's famous eight-lug aluminum wheels were the ultimate optional touch.
This was the only Poncho with standard 421-cid power. The 338-bhp four-barrel was the base engine. Two tri-power 421s were optional, one with 356 bhp, the other with 376. The last was the 421 HO and included a high-output camshaft and valve train. It used a declutching fan, special exhaust manifolds, and chrome low-restriction air cleaners; rocker covers and oil-filler cap also were chrome.
Transistorized ignition was available. A three-speed stick was standard; a four-speed and automatic cost extra. The manuals had Hurst shifters. A limited-slip differential and gearing up to 4:11.1 were optional.
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Calling into play enormous power and a decent 55/45 weight distribution, the 2+2 could be launched with little tire spin and guided through corners with alarming efficiency. And it cruised silently and rode with less harshness than muscle intermediates. The 2+2 reverted to option status for '67, then died, a proud relic of a time when big cars, Pontiacs in particular, ruled the streets.
Calling into play enormous power and a decent 55/45 weight distribution, the 2+2 could be launched with little tire spin and guided through corners with alarming efficiency. And it cruised silently and rode with less harshness than muscle intermediates. The 2+2 reverted to option status for '67, then died, a proud relic of a time when big cars, Pontiacs in particular, ruled the streets.
Return to Classic Muscle Cars Library.
- Pontiac ignited the classic muscle car era with a stroke of marketing genius. See profiles, photos, and specifications of Pontiac muscle cars.
- Muscle cars came in many shapes and sizes. Here are features on more than 100 muscle cars, including photos and specifications for each model.
- Muscle cars created their own culture. To learn about it, read How Muscle Cars Work.
These muscle car profiles include photos and specifications for each model:
- Cougar pulled out of Mustang's shadow with the striped and spoilered 1969 Mercury Cougar Eliminator.
- Beep, beep! Make way for one of the baddest muscle cars of all time, the 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Hemi.
- The 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am combined sports-car handling and muscle car power.
- An all-aluminum, race-proven V-8 defined the rare and wicked 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.
For related car information, go to these articles:
- The engine is what gives a muscle car its flamboyant personality. To learn everything you need to know about car engines, see How Car Engines Work.
- Muscle cars wouldn't have much muscle without horsepower -- but what exactly is horsepower? How Horsepower Works answers that question.
- NASCAR race cars embody the muscle car philosophy of power. Read How NASCAR Race Cars Work to find out what makes these charged-up racers go.
- Are you thinking of buying a 2007 muscle car, or any other car? See Consumer Guide Automotive's New-Car Reviews, Prices, and Information.
