Will the Camaro and GTO be siblings in 2009?

Camaro January 12th, 2006

With the recent unveiling of the new 2009 Camaro Concept Car, and the subsequent rumors that it will share the same frame as the GTO I’ve had a few thoughts about GM’s strategy and how it all relates to the history of these names. If GM does move forward with this, it will in essence Make the Camaro and GTO the same car, with only minor styling ques between the Chevrolet and Pontiac nameplates.

I have a problem with this. Historically the Camaro has shared this sibling relationship not with the GTO but with the Pontiac Firebird. This is how it has been since 1966 when the first Firebird rolled off the assembly line. In contrast the Goat has always been a full size car, with the engine in the largest flavor Pontiac has to offer; a muscle car to be sure, but not an F-body.

The absence of the Firebird, and subsequently the Trans-Am would be a big mistake in my opinion. There has always been a huge cult following for this car, even when sales lagged in the late 90’s.

GM should keep the GTO on its existing platform as the flagship for the Pontiac brand. (based off the Holden Monero) Sure it’s a plain Jane that needs some reworking, but turning the GTO into a pony car isn’t true to the nostalgia of the vehicle. Fix the styling; don’t try to make the car something it isn’t.