1959 Pontiac Catalina Convertible.
Manufactured in 59 and 60.
The Catalina, though it was priced and trimmed below the Impala due to GM's overlapping price structure formula.
Catalinas had more standard amenities than Chevrolet models and included a larger and more powerful V8 engine.
Also a much better automatic transmission than their Chevrolet counterparts - the four-speed Hydra-Matic - versus Chevy's two-speed Powerglide.
The Catalina featured a split grill, which was one of Pontiacs many “firsts” that was carried on though many generations, including the GTO.
The Catalina was Pontiac's most popular model and the base platform for many iconic, popular cars - Pontiac Grand Prix, Pontiac 2+2, Pontiac Ventura, and the Pontiac Safari station wagon.
The Pontiac Tempest was introduced in 1964, lessons learned from the Catalina & Grand Prix led to the introduction of the Pontiac GTO, to include the 389 cu in (6.
4 L) Pontiac V8.
Though the basic Catalina started out with a full rubber mat, it could be ordered
with full carpeting, glovebox and trunk lights; dual front ashtrays, cigar lighter, glove compartment snack bar (two cup indents on the glovebox door that could be opened for use at drive-in restaurants) were standard.
Body shape wise, Twin tailfins in a V, like some jet fighter planes, two on each side, were new and only in 1959.
Styling highlights include thin-pillar rooflines and greater use of glass for increased visibility.
Paint & Body.
Nice C code Cameo Ivory paint covers good sheet metal.
Great lines, gaps and body fit.
Very nice chrome rear bumper curves up on the ends and makes a down curving trim piece creating beautiful symmetry.
In the end of each meeting of the two pieces is in elliptical brake lamp with a chrome bezel.
The gas tank filler cap was offset to the passenger side of the car to allow the trunk lock to be centered.
Centered across the back, chrome emblem letters spelling “Pontiac.
” This side trim is a little minimalistic but the front bumper design makes up for it.
The front bumper is
a two piece, the top part wraps around the fenders and angles down, the lower piece curves upward creating an air gap and pleasing white space.
The grill is a rectangular open rectangular grid.
Classy bezels surround the dual headlights.
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