The original 1964 Pontiac GTO has achieved icon status as the car that jump-started the muscle car craze. Even though there were other fast domestic cars, the GTO marked the first time a big-block V-8 had been offered in a mid-size car (what passed for mid-size in the sixties seems huge by contemporary standards).

The GTO was technically against GM engine size/horsepower limits for intermediate cars, but by calling the GTO a Tempest LeMans option Pontiac skirted the rules. Instant sales success magically loosened corporate restraints. The first GTOs were fine cars (as were many comparable GM siblings), but image and reputation outshined the actual car.

Forty years after the introduction of the original GTO Pontiac reintroduced the new GTO. In this case, the situation is reversed. The new GTO is much better than its image.

The new GTO got off to a rather slow start, but several improvements were made for 2005. The biggest change came in the form of more horsepower. The 400 hp LS2 V-8 continues for model year 2006. Also continued are the more aggressive body mods including the dual scoop hood.

Current GTO styling has been criticized as sedate. Some have compared the GTO to an oversize Chevy Cavalier. What many people forget is that the original GTO was more of a “sleeper” than a tart. The GTO's stealthy styling is a plus to serious muscle car enthusiasts.

We're ambivalent about the styling, but far from blasé about the GTO's performance. The LS2 is a wonderful engine, far better than any classic muscle car powerplant. What you're getting is essentially a Corvette drivetrain in a more practical, far more affordable package.

The LS2 puts out a prodigious 400 lb-ft of torque. Anyone familiar with classic muscle cars knows that torque is as important as horsepower. Torque makes a car leap away from stoplights and push you deep into the seat cushions. The new GTO will go from zero to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds. It will also run the quarter mile in the low 13-second range. Forty years ago that was professional drag racer territory. Average first generation GTOs were lucky to break out of the 15-second zone.

Besides being incredibly quick the new GTO also has tremendous brakes and excellent handling. Early GTO four-wheel drum brakes built leg muscles and faith. The new GTO has 4-wheel independent suspension, 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, traction control, power assisted rack and pinion steering, a limited slip differential, and sticky P245/45 ZR17 tires on handsome 17x8-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels.

There are two transmission choices: a six-speed manual and a four-speed automatic. Unless you absolutely can't tolerate stop-and-go traffic with a manual transmission we'd strongly recommend the six-speed.

Interior comfort and quality are GTO highlights. The front buckets are super supportive and very comfortable. Back seats are comfy, but access is difficult. The interior has a European flavor.

Whines: A car this quick needs Pontiac's Heads Up Display windshield projection speedometer as standard equipment. Trunk space was limited by the gas tank and stereo gear.

Bottom Line: If you truly enjoy good old American style muscle, the engine, transmission, and suspension of the new GTO will win you over. The combo is outstanding. Driver/front passenger comfort is first class. Styling is subjective. The new GTO is far, far superior to the original; it just needs a little of the original GTO's image.