Vehicle Description
Not all restorations are created equal. Some are geared towards
getting a car safely back onto the road as quickly as possible -
while taking whatever shortcuts are available to speed up the
process - while others are meticulous and detailed-oriented. The
restoration bestowed on this 1961 Pontiac Catalina Bubble Top
definitely falls into the latter category. This distinctive classic
was refurbished with precision both inside and out and is propelled
by a period correct big block offering plenty of power.
Skilled workmanship leaves clues and there are plenty on display
here. This Pontiac was taken all the way down to bare metal before
the first pull of the paint gun trigger and every step along the
way was made with maximum attention to detail, including the
application of top quality PPG single stage paint to recreate the
Shelltone Ivory color that was on board when this Pontiac came off
the assembly line. At the same time, the undercarriage was treated
with the proper red primer to discourage any ill effects from
caustic road debris. A lap around the car will reveal that the
exterior has been left entirely in stock configuration - a wise
move, considering the rarity of this specimen- and the body lines
are consistently tight and precise. Clear glass surrounds the cabin
and every bit of trim and brightwork in sight presents as nicely as
can be. Nearly any vintage car has to be seen in person to be fully
appreciated, but it goes doubly for this Pontiac - it's really
impressive.
The maroon interior has also been returned to top form while
retaining both its factory configuration and original color. The
visual effect of the showroom fresh tri-colored bench seats looming
over an expanse of bright red carpet that looks as if it's yet to
come in contact with any foot traffic is a compelling one - even
among the most thoroughly restored of classics, this interior is a
standout. The sizable, vintage style wheel on the column is no
repro - it's been restored from scratch and if you peer through it
you'll see an array of factory gauges in good working order, joined
by an aftermarket tach on the column and a trio of Bosch displays
recessed into a panel of their own just below.
A period correct and rare 425A, 389 cubic inch, V8 beneath the hood
takes center stage in an engine compartment that's as clean as any
you'll likely encounter, bracketed by semi-gloss black inner
fenders that contrast perfectly with its light blue block, heads
and valve covers. The big block is fed by a tri-power
configuration: GM's signature distinctive and coveted carburetion
system of the era that positions a trio of 2-barrel carbs in a row
under compact air cleaners to provide maximum CFM capacity. A
4-speed manual transmission sits just behind the engine to provide
a fitting "hands on" driving experience and it's navigated by an
upgraded hydraulic clutch that offers an unusually smooth pedal
action. HEI ignition brings maximum available spark, while an added
aluminum radiator helps keep operating temperatures in line. A rear
suspension that pairs trailing arms with coil springs brings a
surprisingly refined ride, with none of the binding around corners
or squeaking that often comes with the more common leaf springs of
the era. Power steering makes for easy navigating while power
brakes bring the set of color matched 15" factory wheels to low
effort stops.
This 1961 Pontiac Catalina Bubble Top offers the chance to own a
seldom-seen, thoroughly distinctive classic that's now in top form
and ready to provide plenty of chapters of future motoring
memories. Call today!