The Charlotte AutoFair Produced by Hornets Nest Region, AACA showcases collector cars and car parts for all makes and models, making it possible for car enthusiasts to spend a few days in what they’re sure to consider heaven on earth. These car lovers know that sometimes the rules really do have to be bent, if not broken. This is exactly what happened with the 1964 Pontiac GTO, the classic car of the month chosen by the organizers of the Southeast’s largest car show.

How did this model fly in the face of the establishment? In 1963, following the industry standard, General Motors issued a voluntary ban on divisions involved with auto racing, meaning a different strategy needed to be found to sell models. The 1964 Pontiac GTO, the first of its class, was essentially designed as a racing vehicle, but had to be packaged as a high performance vehicle.

What made this model so special? Let’s take a look:

• Powerful Performance: This vehicle features either a 389 (6.4 L) or 400 (6.6 L) cubic in. V8 engine. The GTO also came with a number of transmission options: two- or three-speed automatic and three- or four-speed manual. Optional add-ons included a “tri-power” carburetor.
• Sleek Design: Built on an A-body platform, this vehicle came as either a two-door convertible, two-door hardtop or two-door coupe.
• Customizability: Throughout the vehicle’s life span, kits were available to upgrade the overall performance of the GTO. These included a copper head gasket to raise compression and larger carburetor jets to add between 30 and 50 horsepower.

This kind of American classic, and many others, will be on view at the next Charlotte AutoFair Produced by Hornets Nest Region, ACCA, the area’s largest vintage car show.

To learn more about exhibiting at or visiting Charlotte AutoFair Produced by Hornets Nest Region, AACA stop by the web site or call (704) 841-1990.