1962 Pontiac Bonneville

Description

When the Detroit party from the 1950s was over, cars like this 1962 Pontiac Bonneville convertible were the cure for the resulting hangover. Sleek, stylish, reserved, and full of performance, the big Bonneville was the ultimate symbol of success for a younger generation. The fact that it was also fast was surely part of its appeal, and this nicely preserved example demonstrates without a doubt why these cars are hot collectables today.

Glancing at the PHS build sheet that accompanies this big ragtop, you'll note that it still wears a correct coat of code P Aquamarine paint, a playful color that perfectly embodies the Bonneville's split personality. Pontiac was hitting on all eight cylinders throughout the '60s, but this might be the car that really started the luxury/performance trend that defined the excitement division. The bodywork on this particular car is quite straight and the paint has a wonderful vintage-looking shine, so it looks right and generates a ton of attention wherever it goes. Fit and finish is very good, with nicely aligned doors-a critical detail given the long trim that runs from nose to tail. A few neat details like the fender ornaments, the split Pontiac grille, and those ultra-cool curving taillights (now with blue dots) mean this is a car you can admire for a long time without seeing it all. Someone has invested big in making it look this good, but it's still priced very reasonably. Nice!

Pontiac enthusiasts will find the tri-tone upholstery and the uniquely-shaped bucket seats familiar, and it's more evidence that Pontiac was working overtime to separate themselves from the pack. The correct code 277 Aqua interior looks very good with only minor signs of use that seem to enhance its appeal. Come on, don't you just want to slide into that driver's seat and key it up? The instrument panel is a double-decker affair, with a wide speedometer up top framed in wood and a stainless section below for the auxiliary controls. Overhead there's a white power convertible top with matching boot and the massive trunk is detailed with a reproduction mat, full-sized spare with cover, and a jack with pouch. This heavily optioned cruiser is also equipped with factory AC, power steering, power brakes, rare factory AM/FM radio with power antenna, full interior lights, movable trunk light, remote driver's side mirror, tinted windshield and the desirable 8-lug aluminum wheels.

Pontiac's 389 cubic inch V8 was a mainstay across the line, and it delivers impressive performance in the Bonneville. Topped by a 4-barrel carburetor and with dual exhaust, it's powerful but doesn't call attention to itself; it's merely competent and trustworthy. It's painted correct Pontiac Turquoise and still wears the optional heavy-duty air cleaner. Underneath, it has a correct Hydramatic transmission and heavy-duty rear end, and if ever there was a car designed for long road trips across the western US, this is it. Add in 8-lug wheels and 215/75/14 whitewall radials, and this is one of the best-looking cars of the period.

Included are the original owner's manual, shop manual, and an original sales brochure. Full documentation from Pontiac Historic Services is also provided, including a reproduction widow sticker.. Call today!