Pontiac GTO 'The Judge' Sticker

The 1969 Pontiac GTO Judge was evidence that muscle cars could reflect the cultural currents of their time. In most circumstances, a judge commands respect. But society in the 1960s grew increasingly irreverent toward establishment figures, and "Here comes da judge!" quickly went from a sardonic catchphrase on TV's Laugh-In to a staple of the American lexicon. In naming the newest GTO incarnation "The Judge," Pontiac seemed to be saying: "This car has authority, but like the Road Runner and its ilk, it doesn't take itself too seriously." Abundantly powerful V-8s secured the first part of the message; op-art graphics and bright primary colors brought home the second.