Quote:
Originally Posted by MikeNoun
Would have been so easy for Pontiac to use the 400-4V from the 1974 Trans Am.
Instead of the 1974 GTO 350 producing 200hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, it would have produced 225hp and 330 lb-ft of torque with a regular 400.
Forget about 455's or SD-455's, just this small change from a 350 to a 400 in the 1974 GTO would have made a world of difference. Pontiac wouldn't have had to change any suspension, exhaust, or cooling components in the process, other than perhaps using the Turbo 400 instead of the Turbo 350 trans.
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You're right Mike.....that combo would have been a game changer for many buying new, would have been a very neat setup with a few rear gear options.
Pontiac could have done anything they wanted, even the HO within the regs ...but....
I remember sitting in gas lines, odd even days, running out down at the beach, not going on vacation due to gas....people went from "performance" mindset to" oh snap, Ive got to find something right away much better on gas".
That realization hit almost overnight: the fear that the Arabs and the Oil Embargo was going to stay "forever".
The Feds also had new Auto Safety rules in play......crash standards and more.
A lot changed in 1974.
PS: People who appreciate performance should try and at least drive a newer GTO, esp the 2005 to 2006.
I think a short drive may impress the non believers.....
