Once upon a time, GM's North America Chairman Bob Lutz read an article in CAR AND DRIVER about GM of Australia's Holden Commodore SS. CAR AND DRIVER thought it was the finest performance produced by GM. The magazine also deeply regretted the Commodore was not available in the US. This put the idea in Lutz's head he could make a 21st Century muscle car with little or no development costs quickly.

Though the whole project would take longer and cost more than Lutz hoped, the first GTO since 1974 was introduced in 2004. The two door coupe was powered by the Corvette LS1 5.7 liter 350 hp V-8 that was connected to either a 4 speed automatic or 6 speed manual.

The new GTO's top speed of 159 mph, 0-60 in 5.3 seconds, 0-100 in 13.1 seconds and a quarter mile time of 13.62 seconds made the new GTO worthy of its ancestors.

The GTO offered for auction is all original. No mods have been added. It is offered in Bahama Blue (available only in 2004). The interior is black leather with bucket seats. This car is one of only 271 in Bahama Blue with a 6-speed manual.

The 2004 GTO is a forgotten classic that will make a tremendous investment.

* LS1 5.7 liter V-8 350 hp

* 6-speed manual

* Top end 159!

ESTIMATE: $8,500 - $12,500