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1968 Pontiac Bonneville

The '68 Bonneville: a big, bold muscle car! It was a symbol of '60s American power and optimism, a time of change reflected in its sleek, sporty lines. Think Coke-bottle curves and a long hood – a classic muscle car look that still turns heads. A true piece of automotive history!

The Allure of the 1968 Pontiac Bonneville

The 1968 Pontiac Bonneville isn't just a car; it's a symbol of its era. This car embodies the spirit of the late '60s, a time when style, performance, and personality were paramount. Driving one feels like an echo from the past, reminding us of a golden age of American automotive craftsmanship. The Bonneville, with its striking design and robust performance, reflects a period when cars were more than just transportation—they were an experience.

Photo of a 1968 Pontiac Bonneville

1968 Pontiac Bonneville Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Pontiac Bonneville Worth?

Original MSRP :$3,637.00

Outstanding

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$30,900

Clean

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$22,300

Average

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$14,000*

Rough

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$9,000

1968 Pontiac Bonneville Specs

Body Maker: Fisher
No. Of Doors: 4
Model Number: 26239
Length: 223.5 inches
Width: 79.8 inches
Height: 55.6 inches
Wheelbase: 124 inches
Weight: 4,171lbs
Type: Own, V8, OHV, Downdraft 4-barrel, Synchro-mesh
Displacement: 400 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 4.125 & 3 3/4 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 10.5 to 1
Horsepower Brake: 340@4800
Horsepower Rated: 54.3
Torque: 445@2900
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Hydraulic
Block Material: Cast Iron
Engine Number Location: On pad at front of right side of block.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Rochester
Type:
5 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
11 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.42 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.61
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
2.33
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.23 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Coil link
Service Type: Hydraulic, self-adjusting drums
Service Front Size: 11 inches
Service Rear Size: 11 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 11 inches
Type: Premium
Tire Size: 8.55 x 14
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 26.5 Gallons
Oil: 6 Quarts
Rear Differential: 4.5 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:Starting 262398a100001
Total Digits:13
Digits 1:Make
Digits 2-3:Series
Digits 4-5:Body style
Digits 6:Model year
Digits 7:Assembly plant
Digits 8-13:Production number
All colors may not be available in all models., Starlight Black, Cameo Ivory, Alpine Blue Metallic, Aegena Blue Metallic, Nordic Blue Metallic, April Gold Metallic, Meridian Turquoise Metallic, Aleutian Blue Metallic, Flambeau Burgundy Metallic, Springmist Green Metallic, Verdoro Green Metallic, Solar Red, Primavera Beige, Nightshade Green Metallic, Mayfair Maize
Hardtop: Opt
428 Cu. In. V8 Engine: Opt
Turbo Hydramatic Automatic Transmission: Opt
Power Windows: Opt
Air Conditioning: Opt
Power Brakes: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
Power Seats: Opt
Power Vent Windows: Opt
Radio: Opt
Power Antenna: Opt
Speed Control Device: Opt

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History of the 1968 Pontiac Bonneville

Pontiac's 1968 Bonneville stands out in the lineup of full-size cars, capturing the cultural zeitgeist of its time. Under the pioneering leadership of John DeLorean, Pontiac pursued a younger market, delivering vehicles that combined style and power. The Bonneville's aggressive design, marked by its elongated hood and shorter rear, signaled a shift towards more sporty aesthetics.

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Famous Figures Who Own the Pontiac Bonneville

Janis Joplin

Janis Joplin wasn't just a rock legend; she was also a Pontiac Bonneville enthusiast. In 1968, Joplin bought a Bonneville for about $3,500. What made her vehicle stand out was its custom psychedelic paint job, perfectly mirroring the counterculture movement she was so much a part of.

Kid Rock

Musician Kid Rock is another celebrity linked to the Bonneville, albeit a 1963 model. He bought it from famed rodeo tailor Nudie Cohn's collection for an eye-popping $225,000. This sale highlights how such connections can boost a car's allure and market value.

Ben Bennett

Ben Bennett, a retired GM employee and photographer, demonstrates the dedication of classic car enthusiasts. Owning a 1961 Pontiac Bonneville bubble-top, Bennett's commitment to preserving its legacy showcases the car's enduring appeal.

The Performance Prowess

Humming along through the muscle car era, the 1968 Bonneville didn't just look the part—it had the muscle to back it up. Sporting a 400 cubic inch V8 engine, this beast produced up to 340 horsepower, making it a favorite among speed enthusiasts. Whether on the track or the street, its 0-60 mph time was all about getting there fast.

1968 Pontiac Bonneville Gallery

Photo of a 1968 Pontiac Bonneville
Photo of a 1968 Pontiac Bonneville

Cultural Impact and Media Presence

In the realm of pop culture, the 1968 Pontiac Bonneville has made a notable mark. Television shows of the era, like "Starsky & Hutch," might not have spotlighted the Bonneville directly, but the show's ethos of speed and style resonates strongly with what the Bonneville represents.

Price Fluctuations in the Market

The classic car market is as dynamic as the vehicles within it. The 1968 Pontiac Bonneville has seen auction highs of $35,200 and lows down to $1,825. This variability tells us something: more than just a price tag, each car holds a story, a piece of history.

Performance and Customization

Pontiac in 1968 wasn't just offering cars—they were delivering statements. With customizable performance options, the Bonneville allowed enthusiasts to tailor their ride to their driving preferences. It's no wonder this car became synonymous with freedom and expression.

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So, whether you're a potential buyer, seller, or just someone admiring these vintage masterpieces, the 1968 Pontiac Bonneville offers more than just a trip down memory lane—it's a journey into the heart of American culture and automotive history.

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Explore Pontiac Bonneville from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

The '68 Bonneville? Man, that's a beauty! Think long hood, short deck—classic muscle car styling. You'll spot the distinctive Coke-bottle shape, a real head-turner, especially in those vibrant colors they offered back then. It was all about the presence; it just commanded attention. Key features included a wide track for improved handling – a big deal back in the day – and those iconic Pontiac split grille and stacked headlights. They really knew how to make a statement, those designers! Oh, and don't forget the optional powerful V8 engines; some real beasts under the hood!

Now, under the hood is where things got interesting. The standard offering was a 389 cubic inch V8, more than enough power for most folks. But, if you were feeling ambitious, you could upgrade to the mighty 400 cubic inch V8, or even the top-of-the-line 428 cubic inch V8 – that was a real rocket! It really depends on what you're looking for. Think of it like choosing between a reliable family sedan and a high-performance sports car; quite a selection back then!

You had a couple of choices for getting that power to the wheels. Most Bonnevilles came with a 2-speed Powerglide automatic transmission; super smooth and simple. But for those who wanted more control, there was a 3-speed manual on the floor, for a sportier driving experience – and a much more engaging feel, if you catch my drift. This one's all about personal preference, really.

Ah, the million-dollar question! The value of a '68 Bonneville can fluctuate wildly, you know. A pristine, low-mileage car with all the original options? Forget about it; you're looking at a serious investment. But a project car that needs some TLC? That's a different story. Condition is king, and those desirable options like the 428 engine, a certain color, or even the factory air conditioning really boost the asking price. It's like buying a house—location, location, location, and condition matter most in classic cars, too.

These old girls aren't immune to age and wear and tear. Things like the braking system, you'd better check that out thoroughly! And the electrical system can be a bit temperamental sometimes; these cars are older than many of the mechanics working on them today. Rust is another big enemy of these beauties, especially around the body panels and floors. Be sure to have a good mechanic inspect any car you're considering. You know, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and all that!

Finding parts can be a bit of an adventure, but hey, that's half the fun, right? There are dedicated classic car parts suppliers, online forums and clubs dedicated to Pontiacs – those guys are goldmines of information. You'll find everything from simple trim pieces to entire engine rebuild kits. Plus, you meet other enthusiasts along the way. It's a whole community; a real brotherhood and sisterhood of car lovers. Don't underestimate the power of the internet and those online forums!