Vehicle Description
FROM THE MISSOULA AUTO MUSEUM COLLECTION: Vehicle to be offered for Auction sale WITHOUT RESERVE and SOLD to the highest bidder January 19th - 22nd, 2017 at Russo and Steele's 17th Annual Scottsdale Arizona Auction at the Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. Please contact us for more information.
The launch of General Motors' new Pontiac Motor Division for 1926 was met with new sales records. However, despite offering solid value for the money and abundant standard features, Pontiac sales declined along with the general new-car trend as the Great Depression continued during the early 1930s. For 1933, Pontiac doubled down by offering more of everything that America's remaining car buyers had come to expect. As suggested by Pontiac's single "Economy Eight" model line, all were powered by a new inline eight-cylinder engine displacing 223 cubic inches and delivering a robust 77 bhp at just 3,800 engine revolutions. Importantly, Pontiac's eight delivered slightly more power than Ford's much-hyped 'Flathead' V-8.
New Fisher-built Pontiac bodies also debuted for 1933, with a modern streamlined design theme penned by GM stylist Franklin Q. Hershey, formerly on the staff of the Murphy Body Company, who would later play a large role in the development of the Ford Thunderbird. A wide range of seven Pontiac body styles were available, from a 2/4-Passenger Roadster, through the 2-Passenger Coupe, 2/4-Passenger Sport Coupe and Convertible Coupe, a 2-door Sedan and Touring Sedan, and a 4-door Sedan. Priced from $695, the same as the upscale Sport Coupe, the Sedan was one of the most important models for Pontiac. Pontiac options and available accessories for 1933 were numerous. Pontiac interiors featured an aircraft-inspired instrument panel and glove box, and passengers enjoyed a generous cabin and a pleasant ride with Pontiac's 115-inch wheelbase chassis. Driving ease was provided by a synchronized three-speed transmission, torque-tube drive, and standard freewheeling. A great offering without reserve, this 1933 Pontiac Sedan benefits handsomely from a complete, frame-off restoration, with all major mechanicals, the exterior, chrome, paint, and interior addressed. A true pleasure to drive, it demonstrates the many secrets to Pontiac's enduring success.
