For the 1969 model year, Pontiac released the highest-performing production version of its venerable 400. Called the Ram Air IV, it was designed for operation up to 6,500 RPM. The Ram Air IV was essentially an update of the round-port 1968- Ram Air II and featured new larger intake ports, a new aluminum two-plane high-rise intake manifold with removable heat crossover, and new 1.65:1 rockers, which increased valve lift to .516-inch. Combined with the round-port cast-iron headers, the new Ram Air IV was rated at 370 HP at 5,500 RPM with 445 lb-ft of torque at 3,900 RPM with 10.75:1 compression and a specially calibrated Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor. Actual horsepower for the GTO was closer to 450 HP, though it was downplayed for insurance and race-class qualification. The Ram Air IV had a much higher power band than other 400s, making it a great drag-strip performer. Available with either a Muncie 4-speed or Turbo 400 automatic, it came with standard 3.90 gearing, with ultra-steep 4.33s optional. Due to these restrictions, production was quite limited, but stellar examples like this machine still exist today.
This 1969 Ram Air IV GTO Judge is one of only 549 Judges produced with the Ram Air IV engine and 4-speed transmission, an extremely desirable combination among serious collectors. To add to its rarity, this example is one of only 210 ordered with the 4.33 rear axle ratio. According to the PHS documentation, it was sold new at Bud Meadows in Seattle, Washington, and it was factory ordered in the highly desirable Carousel Red (Code TT) complemented by a Code 58 Black vinyl bucket seat interior. Other options include the 4.33 rear axle ratio, Safe-T-Track Positraction, covered headlamps, a pushbutton radio, gauges, a console and the coveted Judge package.
The history of this very rare Pontiac collectible comes documented with PHS documentation. For a Pontiac connoisseur looking for the best, it doesn't get any better than a Ram Air IV, Carousel Red, 4-speed, covered headlamp, GTO Judge.
Highlights:
Rare Carousel Red Ram AIr IV GTO Judge
1 of only 210 GTO Judges produced with the Ram Air IV engine, 4-speed and 4.33 rear axle ratio
Ram Air IV 400/370 HP V-8 engine
Factory Code TT Carousel Red paint color
Muncie M21 4-speed manual transmission
Covered headlights
10 bolt 4.33 Safe-T-Track rear axle
Factory code 58 Black vinyl interior
Premium Gardner replacement exhaust
14" Rally II wheels with Firestone Wide Oval tires
