1966 Pontiac 2+2
It was clear to most enthusiasts by 1966 that midsize models had seized the muscle car mantle. Detroit, however, was reluctant to relinquish its time-tested biggest-car/best-engine formula. Given that, it was no accident that the leader in intermediate muscle also put together the finest full-size performance machine -- the 1966 Pontiac 2+2.It was clear to most enthusiasts by 1966 that midsize models had seized the muscle car mantle. Detroit, however, was reluctant to relinquish its time-tested biggest-car/best-engine formula. Given that, it was no accident that the leader in intermediate muscle also put together the finest full-size performance machine -- the 1966 Pontiac 2+2.
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Pontiac first offered the 2+2 as a Catalina engine, suspension, and trim group in 1964. For '65, the 421-cid V-8 became a standard part of the option package, and for '66, Pontiac made the 2+2 a separate model, still based on the Catalina two-door hardtop or convertible. Flamboyantly styled and expansively proportioned, the 2+2 was unbeatable for sheer presence. It also could hold its own against a range of performance cars.Pontiac first offered the 2+2 as a Catalina engine, suspension, and trim group in 1964. For '65, the 421-cid V-8 became a standard part of the option package, and for '66, Pontiac made the 2+2 a separate model, still based on the Catalina two-door hardtop or convertible. Flamboyantly styled and expansively proportioned, the 2+2 was unbeatable for sheer presence. It also could hold its own against a range of performance cars.
The basic package included the heavy-duty suspension, with even stiffer springs and shocks available. Buckets and a console were added to the top-line Catalina interior, which could be optioned with a sport steering wheel and instrumentation that included a tachometer and oil-pressure gauge. Unique exterior features included "2+2" badges, twin lens taillamps, and chrome bodyside gills; Pontiac's famous eight-lug aluminum wheels were the ultimate optional touch.©2007 . The 2+2 was the only Pontiac with standard 421-cid power; this one has the 376-bhp Tri-Power option and automatic transmission.
This was the only Poncho with standard 421-cid power. The 338-bhp four-barrel was the base engine. Two tri-power 421s were optional, one with 356 bhp, the other with 376. The last was the 421 HO and included a high-output camshaft and valve train. It used a declutching fan, special exhaust manifolds, and chrome low-restriction air cleaners; rocker covers and oil-filler cap also were chrome.
Transistorized ignition was available. A three-speed stick was standard; a four-speed and automatic cost extra. The manuals had Hurst shifters. A limited-slip differential and gearing up to 4:11.1 were optional.
©2007 . No breakout exists on how many of the 6,383 2+2s built for '66 were convertibles.
Calling into play enormous power and a decent 55/45 weight distribution, the 2+2 could be launched with little tire spin and guided through corners with alarming efficiency. And it cruised silently and rode with less harshness than muscle intermediates. The 2+2 reverted to option status for '67, then died, a proud relic of a time when big cars, Pontiacs in particular, ruled the streets.Calling into play enormous power and a decent 55/45 weight distribution, the 2+2 could be launched with little tire spin and guided through corners with alarming efficiency. And it cruised silently and rode with less harshness than muscle intermediates. The 2+2 reverted to option status for '67, then died, a proud relic of a time when big cars, Pontiacs in particular, ruled the streets.
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Specifications
Wheelbase, inches: 121.0
Weight, lbs: 4,005
Number built: 6,383
Base price: $3,298
Top Available Engine
Type: ohv V-8
Displacement, cid: 421
Fuel system: 3 x 2bbl.
Compression ratio: 10.75:1
Horsepower @ rpm: 376 @ 5000
Torque @ rpm: 461 @ 3600
Representative Performance
0-60 mph, sec: 7.0
1/4 mile, sec. @ mph: 15.4 @ 93