Pontiac Tempest Le Mans (1962)

Of the three compact cars GM introduced in 1960, the Tempest was the most radical, with its all-independent suspension. It used a rear mounted transaxle for near-perfect weight distribution, which produced exceptional handling for great driver reward. The other advantage with the Tempest was its weight. Although in standard form it came with a 194ci (3.2-liter) slant four engine, it was best with Buick's all-aluminium V8 (later sold to Rover in the UK) which was virtually the same weight as the four-cylinder unit and helped put the Tempest's overall weight under 3000lb (130kg), almost unheard of for a muscle car of that era. The Tempest used Pontiac's famous split grille, albeit in a slightly subdued fashion for this 1962 year, and inside was roomy for a compact, thanks to the flat floor through the lack of a transmission tunnel.

Pontiac Tempest Le Mans (1962) Specifications