It was not a good time to be a Pontiac fan in 2009. The only bright spot in the black hole that had formed in GM’s headquarters was the G8, which was the Holden Commodore being sold as a captive import. However, Pontiac had started teasing a version of the Ute as the Pontiac G8 ST, and even went so far as to hold a naming contest online for the coupe utility. Since the name of the performance Ute, the Maloo, means “thunder” in Aborginal, I offered “Tempest” as both a historical nod and a similar theme. I was thoroughly disappointed when the G8 ST didn’t appear, but now that might not be an issue.
According to the eBay listing, this started life as a 2009 Pontiac G8. At some point it time, the car was involved in a rear-end collision that damaged the trunk and passenger side of the car. It was then modified with what looks like Ute SS panels to become a phantom G8 ST. The engine, formerly a 6.2 LS is now a 421ci LSX motor. The original automatic was kept. The car was repainted black and red, and the wheels are from SLP.
The G8 ST stood a chance of bringing something original and even practical to the U.S., but instead GM decided that hawking Buicks in China made more financial sense. The likelihood of seeing another one for at least another twenty years is minimal at best due to import regulations, so if you want the most unique car on the block, or really want a new El Camino, this one’s for you.
The Pontiac’s Ebay ad can be seen here: eBay Pontiac G8 ST
It wasn’t a good time to be a Pontiac only in 2009? I don’t recall it ever being a good time to be a Pontiac.
I think 1978 was a good year for them.
These are a common sight here in New Zealand in fact you can still buy them new here http://www.caradvice.com.au/15618/commodore-ute-to-be-called-pontiac-g8-st/photos/
http://www.thesupercars.org/holden/2014-holden-vf-commodore-ute-ssv-redline/