In this thrilling drag racing video shot at Byron Dragway in Byron, Illinois, we witness an unexpected clash of automotive eras. Imagine the scene: a pristine 1966 Pontiac LeMans lining up alongside not one, but four modern import cars—a '15 Nissan GT-R, a '17 BMW 530i, a '16 Jaguar F-Type, and a '19 Kia Stinger GT-2. The odds of encountering such a diverse lineup in a single day are slim, making this showdown all the more exciting!

Now, let’s level the playing field. The LeMans owner was still fine-tuning his classic '66 Pontiac, but even in its raw state, it put on an impressive display. Consider the technological leap of 50 years that separates these contenders. The modern imports have the advantage of cutting-edge engineering, while the LeMans relies on its timeless design and raw power.

Speaking of the '66 Pontiac LeMans, it steals the spotlight. Back in the day, Pontiac positioned the LeMans as their “midsize” offering from 1961 to 1981. For the 1966 model year, Pontiac revamped the LeMans with a sleek “tunnel back” roofline, giving it a more streamlined appearance. Our featured LeMans, resplendent in a fresh Montero Red factory paint job, boasts an impeccably straight body. Inside, the original black interior remains in fantastic condition, complete with an added tachometer, custom shifter, and upgraded steering wheel.

But what about the heart of this beast? Originally powered by a 400ci V8, the LeMans now roars to life with a mighty 455ci engine. That power is channeled to the rear wheels through a 2-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, and the owner has even installed a Ford 9-inch rear end for extra traction. The LeMans cruises on street tires, its classic American mag wheels evoking a sense of nostalgia. And while the owner admits they’re not ideal for racing, the LeMans still holds its ground.

Now, here’s the twist: Would you choose the LeMans over any of these imports? The allure of the GTR and Jaguar is undeniable, but there’s something undeniably captivating about a classic American muscle car tearing up the asphalt. What’s your pick? #car #classic #bmw #gtr #jaguar