1959 Pontiac Catalina Convertible

1959 Pontiac Catalina Convertible – A true classic that embodies the spirit of 1950s automotive design and performance. The Catalina, produced in both 1959 and 1960, was a step above Chevrolet models in terms of both luxury and power. While it was priced and trimmed below the Impala due to GM’s overlapping price structure, the Catalina came with more standard amenities than its Chevrolet counterparts, including a more powerful V8 engine and a superior automatic transmission. The Catalina was equipped with the four-speed Hydra-Matic transmission, a significant upgrade over Chevrolet’s two-speed Powerglide. The Catalina’s distinctive split grille, one of Pontiac’s many design innovations, would go on to influence the design of the iconic Pontiac GTO.

The Catalina became Pontiac’s most popular model and served as the foundation for several other beloved vehicles, including the Pontiac Grand Prix, Pontiac 2+2, Pontiac Ventura, and the Pontiac Safari station wagon. Lessons learned from the Catalina and Grand Prix ultimately contributed to the creation of the Pontiac Tempest in 1964 and the legendary GTO, which featured the 389 cu in (6.4 L) Pontiac V8 engine.

The 1959 Catalina Convertible’s design was bold and striking, with twin tailfins reminiscent of jet fighter planes—a feature unique to 1959. The body style showcased a thin-pillar roofline and expansive glass areas that increased visibility. Finished in the stunning Cameo Ivory (C-code) paint, the car has excellent sheet metal with perfect lines, gaps, and body fit. The chrome rear bumper curves gracefully, creating a symmetrical look with elliptical brake lamps at each end, encased in chrome bezels. The gas tank filler cap was cleverly offset to the passenger side, allowing for a centered trunk lock. The rear features a chrome “Pontiac” emblem, adding to the car’s clean and elegant design.

The front of the car is just as captivating, with a two-piece front bumper that wraps around the fenders and angles down, creating an elegant air gap. The grille is a rectangular open-grid design, framed by classy bezels surrounding the dual headlights. Each fender is topped with a bullet-style ornament that tapers into a poly shape, drawing your eye naturally towards the beautifully chromed windshield surround.

The interior is a work of art, featuring stunning turquoise and sky blue Morrokide vinyl upholstery. The dashboard is flawless, with a perfectly stretched vinyl dash pad free of wrinkles or creases, reflecting the meticulous craftsmanship. The three large, round gauges are housed behind a wrapped steering wheel, with the heater/defroster working perfectly. Additional features include full wheel covers, a deluxe steering wheel, and chrome pedal trim plates.

The split grille design of the 1959 Pontiac Catalina was an accidental innovation, created when the styling team experimented with dividing a conventional full-width oval grille design and transposing the halves. This unique grille, along with the wider body and chassis, led to improvements in ride and handling, giving rise to Pontiac’s famous “Wide Track” ride, which became a key selling point for the brand.

Under the hood, the Catalina was powered by the 389 V8, initially rated at 235 horsepower with a two-barrel carburetor and mated to a three-speed manual transmission. For those looking for more power, the Catalina offered several upgrades, including the 389 V8 with a four-barrel carburetor, producing 283 horsepower with a manual transmission or 303 horsepower with the Hydra-Matic. The Tri-Power option, featuring triple two-barrel carburetors, offered an impressive 330 to 345 horsepower.

The 1959 Pontiac Catalina Convertible is a prime example of when cars were true works of art—bold in design and full of character. They were not concerned with aerodynamics for fuel efficiency but instead focused on design, style, and performance. This beautiful Catalina runs and handles excellently, a testament to its timeless appeal and craftsmanship.