[Shotimes] OT: another one (musclecar) bites the dust

[Donald Mallinson]

Just announced, the new GTO is dead. From Hemmings:

So long, GTO

The latest GTO is a true muscle machine but, alas, it never caught fire 
with buyers. But if you've been waiting to buy, you had better sign up 
before September. After that, the GTO will be history.
photo courtesy Pontiac

Pontiac has told its dealers that its GTO will no longer be available 
after September 2006.
GM will produce between 10,000 and 12,000 more GTOs before dropping the 
nameplate, sources said. Production of the Australian-built sport coupe 
will end in June because of expenses related to reconfiguring the car to 
meet 2007 air bag standards. GM spokesman Jim Hopson confirmed this and 
said GM is considering a replacement.
In 2005, despite the addition of a thundering 400hp 6-liter LS2 V-8, an 
available snorkeled hood and dual chrome exhaust tips, Pontiac sold just 
11,590 GTOs, in contrast to 13,569 in 2004a 14.6 percent year-to-year 
decline. Pontiac officials had predicted the division would sell 18,000 
GTOs annually.
The GTOs suggested retail price starts at $31,990, including shipping. 
A source said, The 2005 and 2006 models were pretty well sold out, and 
sales were especially strong in areas of GM weakness, like Southern 
California. Its a shame it has to gofor now.
The GTO has been called the original muscle car. Whether it truly was 
will be argued until the end of time. The original GTO died after the 
1974 model year.
- By George Mattar