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Old 08-12-2012, 05:15 AM
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kylek350 kylek350 is offline
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Default 1970 Tempest vs LeMans

In 1970, the following models were available (as referenced in the 2nd and 3rd positions in the VIN):

33 = Tempest
35 = LeMans
37 = LeMans Sport
42 = GTO / GTO Judge

I was always confused by the distinction of Tempest vs LeMans in 1970. Couldn't they both be ordered as body code 37 (VIN positions 5 and 6)? It seems that some otherwise identical cars may have been built, some being labeled "Tempest" and others "LeMans". By mid-model year, the Tempest name of course was replaced by T-37 (and optional GT-37). I'm assuming the 37 referred to body code 37 (2-dr hardtop).

Then regarding the LeMans Sport, were they any major identifiable differences to the LeMans other than the "LeMans Sport" badging and front fender louvres?

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Old 08-12-2012, 05:35 AM
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I may have answered my own question. . . According to this sample order sheet, it looks like the Tempest was not available as body code 37 (2 Door Hardtop), but only as 27 (2 Door Coupe).

Then again, this order sheet doesn't offer any convertible options, so maybe the Tempest was available with body code 37. Also, what's with Pontiac calling their body style with door pillars a "coupe"?

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Old 08-12-2012, 10:17 AM
marxjunk marxjunk is offline
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you could get a hard top tempest

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Old 08-12-2012, 11:33 AM
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23727 is a pillar post Tempest or in '71 a T-37. No one really knows what T-37 stands for. There is no documentation to back up anyone's claims so it is surrounded in mystery. In '70 it was a Tempest T-37 on the name plate but in '71 it was just Pontiac T-37.
Major difference between LeMans and Tempest or in '71 T-37 is the interior, door panels, no carpet and and a lot of other small things. I would suggest getting a sales brochure for '70 A body and it will have a list of the differences.

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Old 08-12-2012, 08:47 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Jack Peters View Post
23727 is a pillar post Tempest or in '71 a T-37.
Wouldn't that be 23327? 37 would indicate LeMans Sport. According to this site, 33 indicated the Tempest.

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Old 08-12-2012, 10:26 PM
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sorry about that the 27 indicates a post model. Whether Tempest, LeMans or T-37

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Old 08-16-2012, 02:15 PM
john31s john31s is offline
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I have a 70 LeMans, it says LeMans on the build sheet, but says Tempest on the sticker on the back of the glove box door.

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Old 08-16-2012, 02:46 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by john31s View Post
I have a 70 LeMans, it says LeMans on the build sheet, but says Tempest on the sticker on the back of the glove box door.
Where was your build sheet located? I'm guessing mine's long gone, but worth a look.

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Old 08-17-2012, 10:33 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by kylek350 View Post
Where was your build sheet located? I'm guessing mine's long gone, but worth a look.
I have both original build sheets but they are buried somewhere. I'll take a look for it when I get a chance.

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