1961 Pontiac Catalina

This 1961 Pontiac Catalina two-door convertible has been driven about 5,000 miles since a rebuild of the reportedly original 389ci V8, which is backed by a Roto-Hydramatic 3-speed automatic transmission. This Catalina underwent both cosmetic and mechanical restoration under prior ownership and is equipped with a two-tone vinyl interior, factory-correct wheel covers, and whitewall tires. Finished in white with a retractable top over a red and ivory interior, this Catalina is now offered with its window sticker, an owner’s manual, service records, receipts, and a clear Virginia title.

The Catalina name was first used beginning in 1950 as a trim line on hardtop full-sized Pontiacs. In 1959, it became a standalone model and the entry-level full-sized offering in the lineup. A facelift was applied in 1960 and a full redesign came one year later, incorporating more squared-off lines and a split grille. This Catalina two-door convertible from 1961 has a rust-free body that was repainted its original white under prior ownership. The exterior features a retractable soft top, a snap-on vinyl convertible boot, quad headlights, and brightwork on the bumpers, side moldings, driver-side mirror, window surrounds, and badging.

Steel wheels with full Pontiac Motor Division polished covers are wrapped in whitewall tires. Steering is power-assisted.

The interior is trimmed with two-tone red and ivory vinyl bench seat upholstery. The seller notes that the stitching on the driver's seat is detached in a section approximately eight inches long, which is shown in the photo carousel. Features include Catalina badging, floor mats, and a carpeted trunk with a spare tire.

Instrumentation includes a sweeping 120-mph speedometer and auxiliary gauges for the fuel level and voltage. The five-digit mechanical odometer reads 99K miles, which the seller states is accurate. Approximately 5K of those miles have been put on the engine since it was rebuilt.

The reportedly original 389ci V8 has accrued 5,000 miles since being rebuilt. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a column-shifted 3-speed Roto-Hydramatic automatic transmission.

Additional photos showing the underside are available in the carousel to the right.

The sale includes the car's window sticker, an owner’s manual, service records, and receipts.