Pontiac Tempest classic cars for sale

History of the Pontiac Tempest

Pontiac introduced the Tempest in 1960 to meet the growing demand for affordable, comfortable mid-sized vehicles, especially in the United States. Engineers Russell Gee, Bill Collins, and John DeLorean led its development, prioritising a spacious interior, innovative technical solutions, and ride comfort. The early Tempest stood out with its flexible driveshaft and rear-mounted transaxle, which optimised weight distribution and introduced a new standard of handling for the segment. The original lineup included sedan, coupe, convertible, and station wagon body styles, making the Tempest an adaptable choice for families and enthusiasts alike.

By the mid-1960s, the Tempest's focus widened with new models like the Custom and Le Mans, catering to evolving tastes and requirements. The car gained a reputation for practicality and dynamic driving, and by 1968, the third generation further increased comfort and appeal, culminating in the highly regarded Tempest Le Mans Convertible. Production numbers for the first generation reached 375,766 units. The Tempest also branched out internationally, with versions tailored to the Canadian market, such as the rebadged Chevrolet Corsica. The final chapter of the Tempest story closed in 1991, leaving a legacy of continuous innovation and adaptability.

Model History

The Tempest’s model history spans distinct eras. The first generation (1961–1963) was marked by significant innovation, using a front-engine and rear-mounted transaxle layout with a four-cylinder engine, available with either a three-speed manual or two-speed automatic transmission. This made the car both efficient and easy to drive.

For 1964, the lineup expanded with the introduction of the high-performance Tempest GTO, a model that later defined the muscle car segment with its V8 engine and striking acceleration. Mid-1960s revisions saw the emergence of the Tempest Custom and Le Mans variants, further improving powertrains and interior equipment.

From 1968, the third and final generation featured an updated body shape, more safety features, and higher comfort. Production of the Tempest as a mainstream model ended in 1970, but the name returned in the late 1980s for the Canadian market as a front-wheel-drive sedan based on the Chevrolet Corsica, marking a final, distinctly different chapter until 1991.

Highlights and Special Features

Several features set the Tempest apart from other mid-sized cars of the era. The most notable early innovation was its 'rope drive' flexible driveshaft and rear transaxle, yielding nearly perfect weight distribution and advanced ride comfort. With the landmark introduction of the Tempest GTO in 1964, the series made a lasting mark on performance car history. The model span also included multiple body styles and luxury features such as genuine leather seats in certain versions, all while staying affordable for middle-class buyers. Later Tempests improved safety features, interior comfort, and customization options, catering to a wide audience from families to performance enthusiasts.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The Pontiac Tempest GTO, introduced in 1964, became a standout not only within the Tempest lineage but across the entire muscle car landscape. This version boasted a V8 engine, up to 348 hp in 'Tri-Power' configuration, and offered acceleration previously unheard of in its class, achieving 0–60 mph in 6.6 seconds. The Le Mans models, particularly the convertible, further elevated the prestige and desirability of the range. In later years, models tailored for the Canadian market—including the Tempest LE—marked the final and rarest incarnations of the nameplate.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

Early Pontiac Tempests were notable for the unique combination of a lightweight four-cylinder engine and the advanced rear transaxle, lending the car surprising balance and road handling for its size. Upgraded six-cylinder and V8 engines in later models, especially in the Le Mans and GTO variants, delivered significant increases in power. The classic Tempest GTO, equipped with the V8 and 'Tri-Power' carburation, was capable of a quarter-mile in under 15 seconds, a feat that set it apart among contemporaries. Transmission options included a three-speed manual and a reliable two-speed automatic; in Europe, buyers tended to prefer manual gearboxes, while automatics were dominant in the US market. - Pontiac Tempest GTO: V8 engine, up to 348 hp, rapid acceleration

• Tempest Le Mans Convertible: Upmarket trim, preferred for open-top comfort and styling

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Tempest’s design evolved considerably during its production, reflecting both contemporary style and technical priorities. Early models offered solid, high-quality bodies and practical four-door and coupe layouts. Design highlights included genuine leather seating in certain versions, chrome trim, and robust, tactile dashboards. Later models adopted the flowing lines of late-1960s American car design, with prominent grilles and a more muscular stance.

Sonderausstattung options featured upscale upholstery, power steering, radio, premium hubcaps, and improved safety equipment. Special paint finishes and accessories were periodically offered, particularly on higher-trim Le Mans and GTO models, giving enthusiasts many customisation opportunities.

Other Aspects

The Tempest served as the technical and conceptual basis for several other General Motors vehicles, notably inspiring the creation of the legendary Pontiac GTO muscle car. In Canada, the model lived on as a rebadged Chevrolet Corsica, reflecting its continual adaptability to different market requirements. This cross-market history adds complexity and interest for collectors and historians alike.

Summary

The Pontiac Tempest stands as a testament to American mid-size engineering ingenuity throughout the 1960s and beyond. Engineered for mass appeal, it evolved from a practical family saloon into a platform renowned for technical firsts and performance models. Today, every Tempest in the classic car scene represents a unique chapter of automotive development, particularly for those seeking a distinctively American combination of practicality and performance.