Pontiac’s 1961 models, a continuation of the “Wide Track” models introduced for 1960, featured a perimeter frame and all-new bodywork designed by Jack Humbert, boasting outstanding performance and class-leading handling and road manners across four series.

Leading the march was the Catalina, whose convertible model was actually the rarer of the two available Pontiac ragtops this year. It was also 100 pounds lighter than its larger Bonneville cousin, enabling superb performance when equipped with one of the numerous available “hot” engines. A total of 12,379 Catalina convertibles were made, but surviving examples are quite scarce, especially compared to other open cars of this period. Fewer still are equipped with the best available options and are in wonderful color combinations.

The convertible offered here was, according to its owner, a dry Arizona car before its recent restoration. It is documented by Pontiac Historical Services as having been built in this exciting color scheme, Mayan Gold with excitingly patterned “jewel-toned” Morrokide upholstery and brown Stayfast top. It is equipped with Super Hydra-Matic transmission, power steering and brakes, a Circ-L-Aire heater, and Super Deluxe radio with manual antenna and rear speaker. During restoration, the engine was upgraded to the potent “Tri-Power” specification using a correct triple two-barrel carburetor installation, as was a popular dealer-installed option on the 389 in-period. The car also now carries correct “eight-lug” aluminum wheels, an iconic Pontiac performance option.

Accompanied by its PHS documentation, this beautiful Catalina would be warmly welcomed at AACA, POCI, and other shows nationwide. It would also be an outstanding and powerful “cruiser” for the summer months, in events such as the Woodward Dream Cruise and Back to the Bricks, able to show off its “Tri-Power” to any and all comers!