Few cars are as desirable as Pontiac’s Ram Air IV models. Like the L88 Corvette engine, the Ram Air IV was not for the faint of heart. Indeed, with the siren call of bigger-inch 455 CI models in 1970, one might wonder why the Ram Air IV remained available. It was really there for the hardcore enthusiast who intended to make a buck or two on the track Sunday afternoon or after dark on the boulevard nearby.

While it did use the same basic 400 CI architecture as other engines, the Ram Air IV used round-port heads, cross-bolted four-bolt main caps, forged internals, big compression and more. Pontiac rated it at a mere 370 HP. Topped with a large four-barrel carburetor, those who knew what those letters ‘RAM AIR IV’ on the hood meant, respected it.

In the case of this car being offered from the Shaffer collection, that powerplant was housed in a Black-on-Black GTO Judge that has been treated to a no-expense-spared restoration using virtually only NOS pieces. These included original Pontiac Ram Air IV engine parts, such as the camshaft, lifter and rocker assembly. The result is a stunning vehicle.

This car took top place at the only two events the car has appeared at since being completed in August 2014. It won a Best of Show at the 2014 Cruisin’ Tigers Indian Uprising, and then took Concours Gold and Judge’s Choice, Best Stock Pontiac at the 2014 Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals in Rosemont.

In addition to the rare Starlight Black-over-Black color combination, this 4-speed car features 17 factory options, original build sheet and PHS documentation. Among the other NOS parts found for its completion were original Firestone White Letter Wide Oval tires including the full-size spare, Comfort Weave upholstery material, hood-mounted tach, tail and marker light lens and trim assemblies, and more.

Courtesy Speedville.com.