The Catalina name had its origins within Pontiac beginning in the 1950 model year, when it was used to describe the all-new hardtop roofline on the Chieftain Super DeLuxe Coupe. The Catalina became a standalone model for 1959, which was a banner year for Pontiac by all accounts. Motor Trend magazine gave the Pontiac division as a whole its “Car of the Year” award, and Pontiacs were victorious in many NASCAR stock car races—including wins at both Daytona and Darlington. Pontiac sales jumped 77% over 1958 models, and the GM division took fourth in industry sales, outpacing its stablemates at Buick and Oldsmobile.

Pontiac claimed 47 engineering advances for its new models. The clever “Wide-Track” tag line was first used in the brand’s advertising, referring to Pontiac’s 4 1/2-inch wider front track that improved handling and roadability. Nineteen-fifty-nine further marked the first year of Pontiac’s split grille, which was to become a trademark of the brand until its passing some 60 years later. With the Chieftain name gone, the Catalina with its “Strato-Star” styling became the entry level Pontiac, and 14,515 buyers said “yes” to a new Catalina Convertible.

This triple-black Catalina Convertible is loaded with extras, including the correct Tri-Power 389-cubic-inch V-8 mated to a four-speed Hydramatic automatic transmission; power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seat, super deluxe AM radio with power antenna, bucket seats, and . . . factory air conditioning! The beneficiary of a recent rotisserie restoration, the motor and transmission were rebuilt and the radio made fully operational in May 2022; the were gauges restored, all stainless polished, and all the chrome—including both bumpers—have been re-plated.

A new interior and convertible top have been installed. More recently, the air conditioning system has been repaired, new rubber seals and window fittings installed, and some paint restoration work totaling $10,000 has reportedly been completed. Eligible to compete in the Pontiac Oakland Club International Modified category, it will look great both on the showfield and appearing at local cruise nights.