Starlight Black GTO: PHS-Documented Goat Needs a New Home, Running and Driving

I've always said that Starlight Black was one of the best colors for the GTO. I don't know about you, but black GTOs have something special for me, becoming genuine head-turning machines no matter the model year. This 1972 specimen is here to prove this to the whole audience.

This PHS documented Goat is in good shape, and although it's no longer 100% original, it's still a car that deserves to be driven. The first objective is to find a new home, as the seller is now ready to let it go to someone else who wants to enjoy and cherish this GTO.

1972 wasn’t by any means a good year for the GTO. Sales were already declining due to the market transitioning to smaller cars and more efficient engines. The clock was ticking, and the GTO wasn't well. Pontiac operated significant changes, and buyers could now choose from only three engines.

The standard choice was a 400ci unit with a four-barrel carburetor and an 8.2:1 compression ratio, while the optional configurations were two and started with a 455ci unit that could be ordered with a Turbo Hydra-matic. The top choice was a 455ci HO with an increased compression ratio – 8.4:1 from 8.2:1 – and buyers could pair it with the same Turbo Hydra-matic or a 4-speed close ratio. 

This GTO has a 400ci engine and a 3-speed automatic transmission. It starts, runs, and drives properly, so if you want to take this car for a ride, you should be able to do so without spending more money on fixing the engine.

The owner says he already installed many new parts, including an exhaust system, tires, brakes, a battery, and a fiberglass hood. The original steel hood is also around, so if you want to get rid of the fiberglass replacement and stick with the factory goodies, you should also be able to do this.

The Starlight Black finish looks good, and I wish we knew more about it, such as whether it's a repaint or the factory spray. You should just contact the seller and ask all your questions. If you're there, you should also request the PHS documents.

The GTO is selling at auction, and the top offer at the time of writing is $12,200. The battle is amazingly fierce, with over 40 bids received in the last few days. The auction continues for two more days, but the reserve is still in place, and it'll certainly be interesting to see if someone ends up triggering it. 95 people added the GTO to their watchlists, so there's still hope that the GTO eventually finds a new home.

The vehicle is parked in Alton, Illinois, and it should be able to go to your garage on its wheels.