Some classics create barely a ripple when they hit the street, while others possess so many positive attributes that it is impossible to identify their greatest or most significant. This 1963 Pontiac Grand Prix falls into the latter category. From its spotless exterior to its well-appointed interior, it seems to tick the boxes on the cosmetic front. However, its 421HO Tri-Power V8 delivers the power to match its looks. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this magnificent Pontiac listed here on eBay in Clearwater, Florida. The seller set their auction to open at $5,000, and has received one bid at the time of writing.

Pontiac introduced the First Generation Grand Prix for the 1962 model year. It positioned it as a direct competitor to the Ford Thunderbird in the Personal Luxury Car segment, but, as we shall see, it also placed strong emphasis on outright performance. This 1963 Grand Prix looks magnificent in Silvermist Gray. It is seemingly impossible to fault its presentation, with the panels and paint spotless. The underside images reveal floors that are clean enough to eat off. There is no rust to mar the ownership experience, and no evidence of previous accident damage or repairs. I have always believed that  Pontiac’s eight-lug wheels are the best-looking wheels from the 1960s. This Grand Prix ticks that box, with the owner wrapping them in Redline tires to increase the visual impact.

The 1963 Grand Prix was V8-only territory, and it was here where Pontiac stole a march over Ford’s Thunderbird. The most potent version of Ford’s 390ci V8 produced 340hp and 430 ft/lbs of torque when placed under the hood of a T-Bird. However, this classic’s first owner equipped it with the 421ci Tri-power V8, churning out 370hp and 460 ft/lbs. The power race was undoubtedly alive and well in the 1960s, and the Grand Prix drew first blood. Unsurprisingly, this car also scores a three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The seller provides no information about the Pontiac’s mechanical state, though their emphasis on the vehicle’s overall condition suggests the news should be positive.

Opening the doors reveals why I believe that this Grand Prix is close to a “total” package. The only item the interior appears to lack is air conditioning. Otherwise, it is loaded with power windows, a power driver’s seat, an Autronic eye, a remote exterior mirror, a console-mounted vacuum gauge, and an AM/FM stereo radio with a power antenna. It is a sea of Red, but it doesn’t look tacky. The interior trim color perfectly complements the exterior paint shade, and its condition is equally impressive. There is no wear on the carpet of upholstered surfaces, and no broken plastic. The bright trim is seemingly flawless, including the damage-prone pieces on the console. The wheel is crack-free, and the headliner looks crisp and clean.

I have been asked to name my dream car from the 1960s, and I find it impossible to answer. The 1960s were a golden era in automotive history, and if I had the funds to buy every car that ignited my passion, I would need a garage the size of the average shopping mall carpark. This 1963 Pontiac Grand Prix would be a contender because there is so much to like. The only thing that surprises me is that the seller’s listing has received only a single bid. The listing statistics are low for a classic of this caliber, as I expected the interest to be far greater. If you are searching for a Christmas gift to buy yourself, could this Grand Prix be a contender?