This 1963 Pontiac Tempest LeMans convertible is described as a 92k-mile example with a Pontiac 400-cubic-inch Tri-Power V-8 and Borg-Warner 4-speed manual transmission. Since these cars originally came with an optional 326 V-8 with automatic or 3-speed manual only, the drivetrain is far from stock but the car’s exterior remains remarkably factory, giving it a real “sleeper” quality. Find it here on eBay in Indio, California with bidding over $13k and no reserve.

1963 was the last year for this body style, which was introduced in 1961 along with the other Y-body compacts from Buick and Oldsmobile. We’ve always liked the clean styling of these and their original drivetrain — featuring a flexible driveshaft, rear transaxle and independent rear suspension — was an innovation reflective of the DeLorean era at Pontiac, though it’s no longer present on this modified car. The seller says the body panels are straight, with good seam fit and that the color is the correct Yorktown Blue. The 15-inch Cragers are a nice touch.

The interior looks very stock except for some underdash aftermarket gauges. The seller says the carpet and the front seat upholstery are new and that the AM radio works. The car has a power top and power brakes but power steering does not appear to be present. The clutch is hydraulic and said to be new.

The triple-carb intake reportedly is from 1966, which was the last year Tri-Power was offered on Pontiacs. The original rear transaxle and flexible driveshaft apparently have given way to a conventional setup with a 12-bolt rear end and live rear axle, but we wish the seller would have provided some details about the build. These cars were not exactly underpowered with the optional 326 engine so performance should be really impressive with the 400. The 4-speed manual — not offered in ’63 — is a nice upgrade.

This appears to be a fine example of a little-seen car and the drivetrain modifications — assuming they were done correctly — should make it a formidable performer. If it checks out, it could make for an interesting alternative to a GTO.