The 1966 Pontiac Tempest LeMans is more than a vintage cruiser, it’s a reminder of an era when style and performance came standard. This example has seen thoughtful upgrades over the years while retaining its factory charm and strong California roots.
Refreshed Classic with West Coast Roots
Originally delivered to Majestic Pontiac in Montebello, California, this hardtop coupe stayed in the original family until the mid-1990s. It was later repainted in its original Palmetto Green and eventually made its way to the current owner in 2018. Since then, it has been treated to a tasteful series of improvements that balance preservation with drivability.
Under the Hood: 326 V8 with Modern Upgrades
The heart of this LeMans is its 326ci V8, now fitted with an Edelbrock Performer intake and four-barrel carburetor. It’s backed by a replacement three-speed automatic transmission. The engine bay features a Cold Case aluminum radiator, electric cooling fans, and Flowmaster mufflers. Recent service totaled nearly $4,000 and included a new timing chain, gaskets, plugs, and wires, ready for its next adventure.
Suspension and Brake Mods Built for Control
Handling is enhanced by a QA1 Level 2 coilover suspension with sway bars and upgraded control arms. Braking performance is delivered through power-assisted Wilwood four-wheel discs. In 2021, the power steering pressure hose was replaced and the brake fluid flushed. Whether in the city or on a scenic drive, this car rides better than it did new.
Vintage Styling with Muscle Car Stance
That Palmetto Green paint still shines, especially when paired with a black Cordova roof and chrome accents. The car rides on 15″ Rally I-style wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires. A matching spare hides in the trunk. Despite its upgrades, it stays true to its 1960s DNA with stacked headlights and sleek hardtop lines.
Comfort and Character Inside
Inside, the Parchment vinyl upholstery on the front buckets and rear bench sets the tone. A black dash and carpet keep things classy, while amenities like power windows and factory A/C add luxury. A center console, AM/FM radio, and auxiliary gauges round out the setup. It’s not without quirks, some trim is loose, and the turn signal needs a gentle nudge, but it’s full of character.
Gauges, Mileage, and Driving Feel
The five-digit odometer reads 76,000 miles, with around 18,000 added by the current owner. Behind the two-spoke wheel sits a full gauge cluster, including a tachometer and AutoMeter readouts mounted below. This LeMans offers vintage vibes with just enough modern tuning to make it shine today.
Summary
With its strong 326 V8, upgraded suspension, and timeless looks, this 1966 Pontiac Tempest LeMans hardtop coupe blends history with performance. It’s a rolling tribute to classic Pontiac design, reimagined for the roads of today.
Disclaimer: Vehicle details reflect seller-provided information and include known imperfections and title variance.
