1967 Pontiac Tempest: A Step Towards Personalization and Performance
The 1967 Pontiac Tempest represented a significant evolution for Pontiac's mid-size offering, building upon the chassis introduced in 1964 and refining its identity as a stylish, comfortable, and increasingly performance-oriented automobile. While sharing its A-body platform with other General Motors intermediates like the Chevrolet Chevelle, Buick Special, and Oldsmobile Cutlass, the Tempest carved out its own niche with distinctive styling and a focus on offering a wider range of engine and trim options.
Design and Styling
For 1967, the Tempest received a subtle but effective facelift. The front end featured a bolder, more pronounced split grille, a Pontiac trademark, with quad headlights housed in separate bezels. The overall lines remained sleek and refined, offering a more upscale appearance than some of its GM stablemates.
Key design elements for 1967 included:
- Front End: The revised grille provided a more aggressive stance, and the redesigned front bumper flowed seamlessly with the updated fascia.
- Side Profile: The Tempest maintained its characteristic long hood and relatively short deck, contributing to its sporty silhouette. Chrome trim along the beltline and fender accents added a touch of elegance.
- Rear End: Taillights were redesigned to complement the overall updated look, often featuring a distinctive "Pontiac" script.
- Body Styles: The 1967 Tempest was available in a variety of popular body styles, catering to different needs and preferences:
- 2-Door Coupe: The most common and arguably most iconic body style, offering a sporty, personal car feel.
- 4-Door Sedan: A more practical choice for families, while still retaining a stylish demeanor.
- Station Wagon (Safari): The Tempest Safari offered the practicality of a wagon with Pontiac's distinctive styling, making it an attractive option for those needing cargo space.
- Convertible: For those seeking open-air motoring, the Tempest convertible provided a classic American cruiser experience.
Powertrain Options
The 1967 Tempest offered a diverse range of engine choices, reflecting Pontiac's commitment to providing performance for a broad spectrum of buyers. This was a year where the "wide-track" engineering philosophy was evident, emphasizing a balanced and capable driving experience.
Standard engines typically included:
- 230 cu in Inline-6: This economical inline-six provided adequate power for everyday driving and was a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.
- 326 cu in V8 (2-barrel): A step up in performance, the 326 V8 offered a good balance of power and fuel efficiency.
Optional and performance-oriented V8 engines were a key draw for the Tempest:
- 326 cu in V8 (4-barrel): With a higher-output carburetor, the 4-barrel 326 offered a noticeable boost in performance.
- 400 cu in V8 (HO - High Output): This potent V8, borrowed from the larger GTO, was a significant performance upgrade, providing serious acceleration and making the Tempest a formidable competitor. This engine was often paired with the Tempest's sportier trim levels.
Transmission options typically included:
- 3-Speed Manual: The standard offering for many engines.
- 4-Speed Manual: A desirable option for performance enthusiasts.
- 2-Speed Automatic (Powerglide): A common automatic transmission for milder engine packages.
- 3-Speed Automatic (Turbo Hydra-Matic): Available with the more powerful V8 engines, offering smoother and more responsive automatic shifting.
Trim Levels and Features
The 1967 Tempest was offered in various trim levels, allowing buyers to tailor their vehicle to their desired level of comfort, luxury, and sportiness.
- Tempest (Base Model): The entry-level Tempest provided a solid foundation with essential features and a focus on value.
- Tempest Custom: The Custom trim added a touch of refinement with upgraded interior appointments, often including more comfortable seating and nicer trim materials.
- Tempest LeMans: This was the sportier and more upscale trim level, often featuring upgraded suspension, distinctive badging, bucket seats, and a more aggressive interior. The LeMans was often seen as the gateway to GTO-like performance without the full GTO package.
Notable optional features and packages that enhanced the 1967 Tempest experience included:
- Rally II Wheels: A popular aftermarket-looking wheel option that added a sporty touch.
- Bucket Seats and Console: A staple of sporty interiors, these were often found in LeMans models or as an option on other trims.
- Power Steering and Brakes: Enhancing driver comfort and control.
- Air Conditioning: A desirable option for those in warmer climates.
- Various Luxury and Convenience Features: Including upgraded radios, carpeting, and interior trim.
Legacy and Significance
The 1967 Pontiac Tempest stands as a testament to Pontiac's ability to offer a versatile and appealing mid-size automobile. It successfully blended stylish design with a range of performance options, appealing to a wide demographic. While often overshadowed by its more potent sibling, the GTO, the Tempest, particularly in its LeMans guise with the optional 400 V8, offered a compelling package for those seeking a blend of everyday usability and spirited driving. It represents a significant year in the evolution of the mid-size American car, showcasing the growing trend towards personalization and the increasing availability of powerful V8 engines in a more accessible package.