Stories from Steve: Red 1970 GTO Hardtop – RAIII – Original Miles 9,140

Many times, I vividly remember certain episodes of a car purchase, but on this occasion, I will not forget the last thing that happened when I bought this ‘70 RAIII GTO. But that story is at the end, so let me regroup and tell the story in a logical sequence.

One day, in August of 1997, I received a call that made no sense. The man at the other end of the phone said I didn’t know him, but he had been told I purchase low mileage original cars. Of course, I said, “Yes, who am I talking to?” He said, “My name is of no consequence, but I am in Phoenix and worked with a consortium of lawyers and one was involved with a messy divorce in the Western Pennsylvania area.” He also explained that the main stumbling block involved a ’70 GTO and I was to call this Local County Courthouse and ask for Kenneth, who was working with the County Judge on this case. When I asked him for more information, he said, “That’s all I’ve got. Goodbye, Mr. Ames.”

So, there I sat at my desk with my mind running in 100 different directions, with many of these directions ending in disaster. But you have to at least make the call. I called—they found Kenneth and he was very familiar with the case. In fact, he immediately referred to it as the Sonny vs. Darlene Case.

In a condensed version, he explained that he was a court appointed arbitrator assigned to this divorce case. His presence was necessary because both parties agreed to all aspects of a 50-50 split of mutually held property, except one item. That one item was the ‘70 GTO. In fact, Sonny’s refusal to relinquish the car had become so bitter that Kenneth referred to his attitude as “belligerent.” Therefore, the court had sought suitable buyers for the car, but each time their efforts were rejected by Sonny.

Kenneth asked if indeed this car was of interest to us. I explained the usual criteria that I must inspect the car thoroughly, all paperwork must be in order, original, low mileage, etc., etc. He said he could answer a couple of my questions at that time. The two most important answers he had were the odometer reading of about 9,100 miles and that both parties involved were original owners.

This was obviously great news, but I had one major concern: if Sonny was indeed combative to deal with, why would he be civil and receptive with me? Kenneth answered promptly, “because we are at wit’s end with this case, and I will be with you at their house throughout your negotiation.” We set a time and date. I brought all the latest market values for the car plus every book I owned giving part and casting numbers to verify the car.

I took the trailer and headed west for Dunbar, Pennsylvania. Upon arrival, I was amazed that the town could be in such disrepair, so close to Pittsburgh. I soon discovered there were only about 600 people there, and it was a true coal mining town. I located the house and garage on a steep side hill, parked the truck and trailer, and realized this may not be a good situation. But I couldn’t go back, so I tentatively knocked at the front door. I breathed a sigh of relief when a man opened the door and said he was Kenneth and asked if I was Steve Ames.

Kenneth was great. He introduced me to Sonny and Darlene, who were very polite. They welcomed me inside, and then to the garage and this beautiful ‘70 GTO. Sonny said I would find new tires and an altered exhaust, but original, untouched paint, engine, transmission, interior, original spare, etc. The paperwork was great and included the original title. This indeed showed both their names as owners of the vehicle. The GTO was purchased from Brackett’s Garage, Inc., Westbury, Pennsylvania. This town is about 12 miles from Dunbar.

After I had done my due diligence and I said I was interested in the car, Kenneth proceeded as moderator for the sale. With his assistance, negotiations were tense, but smoother than expected. Sonny was told this was their last chance. Just before the final agreement was struck, Sonny forgot the bitter circumstances and called his wife “honey.” The room went silent—obviously a very awkward moment. Soon, I was loaded, thanked everyone, received instructions to the Pennsylvania Turnpike, and was on my way.

Within a mile or so, I realized I was being followed. Every turn I took, he followed me. Even behind the trailer, I could see it was Sonny. I still was 5 or 6 miles from the Turnpike and needed gas. Which Sonny was following me—the reasonable man I just met, or the unreasonable one that had pushed the court system to the brink?

I decided to continue to the gas station at the Turnpike entrance. Sure enough, as soon as the station was in sight, he started flashing the lights. To stop or not to stop? That became the question. However, I needed gas and he could continue to follow me anyway, so I pulled into the side of the station. He parked beside me and motioned me out of the truck. Another of those decisions reared its ugly head­—do I get out so I could run if necessary, or stay in the locked truck?

I got out and the “good” Sonny approached and said, “Mr. Ames would you please open the two doors of the trailer so I can say goodbye to my GTO for the last time?” I opened the doors. He walked back and forth to look at his car then dropped his head, entered his car, and drove off.

I’m not an emotional kind of guy, but I was that day!

Written August 14, 2016, Steve Ames

Lasted Edited: September 24, 2025, JA

(Note: All names, except Steve’s, and all specific locations have been changed to maintain respect for privacy in such a personal story).