The 10 Best Pontiac Catalina Models of All-Time
The Pontiac Catalina is an automotive brand that was manufactured by General Motors from 1964 to 2005. The first-generation models, which were produced until 1969, are considered to be the most desirable and sought-after of the entire Catalina lineup and are highly collectible. So, what was it that made these cars so special? Quite simply, there’s a combination of factors that make this vehicle stand out among classics from other manufacturers. This article focuses on the Pontiac Catalina and is a compiled list of the most sought-after models. Here is a list packed with 10 different models from Pontiac that have left a special impression on us all. This list is based on 10 models that are highly sought after and considered to be “collectible” by most.
1. 1965 Pontiac Catalina GTO Hardtop
The first generation of Catalina models was manufactured from 1964 to 1969, although the production dates differed based on the year and other factors. This is exactly why this list is split into 10 models based on updates and desirability by year, but there would have been more if we expanded the list further. The first generation of Catalina was introduced in 1964 and was a huge hit for Pontiac. It was based on the Chevrolet Biscayne that came out in the mid-60s (Biscayne, Chevelle, and Impala). This model is one of the most sought-after models for Pontiac collectors and we believe it’s due to its originality compared to other models from other manufactures. The fact it also possessed an incredible V8 motor just makes it even better. This is one of the very first versions of the Pontiac Catalina. It sports a red exterior and has a black interior with bucket seats…which is exactly what made it so special in the first place.
2. 1966 Pontiac Catalina GTO
The Pontiac Catalina was created to appeal to the new generation of car buyers who were drawn to automobile selections that conformed to newer styles. With this in mind, Pontiac went all-out when they designed this model. It was a very sleek and low-slung car that offered maximum aerodynamic protection from road debris without sacrificing any comfort or safety for its passengers. The car had a black exterior with a black interior and was equipped with an incredible V8 engine. This model served as Pontiac’s answer to the famed Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray. Although it was technically the 4th generation from 1966 to 1967, they were most often referred to as first-generation models.
3. 1967 Pontiac Catalina GTO Convertible
Every year they redesigned their car, and in 1967 Pontiac was ready for action once again when they released yet another version of the Catalina. However, it was time to introduce a few changes that would make the car stand out from its predecessors. These changes included a larger motor and fresh new exterior colors. The car also became lighter in weight as compared to previous models, and it received a slightly altered grille to help improve the aesthetics of the car and make it even more appealing for young buyers.
4. 1968 Pontiac Catalina Custom Sport Coupe
The Pontiac Catalina has been one of the most popular automobiles ever manufactured, which is why there are so many models available for you to choose from when shopping around for an older model. The year 1968 marked the 5th generation of Catalina models, and it was one of the most successful generations. This version actually marked Pontiac’s first venture into the muscle car market. They made some major changes to this model, which resulted in a revamped grille, and a longer front end. The dual headlights were also replaced with “pontoon” units, giving it a more aggressive look than its predecessors. This model featured a sporty red exterior and an upgraded interior with bucket seats.
5. 1969 Pontiac Catalina Convertible
The 1969 Pontiac Catalina was one of the most successful years for the brand. This model marked their 6th generation, and it included a few noticeable changes to the exterior and interior which helped make it stand out from previous models. This was the first year that a convertible version of the car was introduced, and it marked yet another milestone in its history. The 1969 model came with either a red or white exterior, based on each buyer’s preference. For some reason, they also decided to place the Pontiac emblem on the front side of the vehicle instead of where it belongs on the grille. This can be a bit confusing if you’re not used to it, but there’s no denying the fact that this is an attractive model nonetheless.
6. 1970 Pontiac Catalina Coupe
This was one of Pontiac’s last models before they discontinued their production in 1971. However, they were able to release a few improved versions of this model until it was finally discontinued altogether. The Pontiac Catalina was one of the most sought-after models of its time, mostly because of its attractive exterior and superior performance. It also came equipped with a V8 engine that helped it achieve a high horsepower rating. The only downside to this model is that they were prone to rust, and some of them were known to break down in the middle of the road if it rained heavily.
7. 1971 Pontiac Catalina Coupe
Based on the 2nd generation model from 1950, the 1951 through 1963 versions were built by Chrysler or Willys-Overland on a modified Hudson chassis and were powered by the 151 cu in (2.5 L) straight-4 engine. The 1965 through 1970 models were also built by Chrysler’s Custom Shop under the moniker “Hudson Hornet.” From 1971 through 1976, Pontiac used the Lincoln and Mercury chassis for its Catalina Coupe before it was finally replaced by the Grand Prix.
8. 1972 Pontiac Catalina Convertible
The second generation of the 1968-1971 model is heavily based on its namesake, and of course, it’s one of Pontiac’s best-selling models. This version came with a couple of changes to make it stand out among its competitors, which included an updated grille, and different tail lights. This model also came with several options from the base model, so it gave you more room to choose the features that you really want.
9. 1977 Pontiac Catalina Convertible
The 1977 Pontiac Catalina Coupe was the last version of the car to be called a convertible. It was also available in a two-door model for the first time. The 1977 model was based on the third generation of the car and used a number of different changes to make it a little bit more upscale. This included a redesigned interior, revised front-end design with new taillights, and various other small changes. This is also one of Pontiac’s rarest models, with only about 4,000 cars being produced in total.
10. 1979 Pontiac Catalina Convertible
The 1979 model was even better looking than the 1977 version and used many of the same parts. This is one of the classics from the seventh generation, with a smooth design and really nice curves. The great thing about this model is that it came with a lot of room for customization. You could choose to have any number of options installed, including larger wheels and tires, as well as other little touches that you might like.