Muscular 8-Seater: 1965 Pontiac Catalina Safari

This 1965 Pontiac Catalina Safari has so many positive points that it is hard to determine which is its highlight. Its sparkling paint makes a positive first impression, while the first owner’s decision to combine the 389ci V8 with a four-speed manual transmission gives it genuine muscle credentials. However, enthusiasts with a family will welcome the third-row seating, providing space for the whole tribe to revel in the classic motoring experience. It requires some interior tweaking, but the work isn’t urgent, and could be completed as time and circumstances allow. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Pontiac listed here on eBay in Ashland, Virginia. The seller set their price at $30,000 with the option to make an offer.

Pontiac was riding the crest of a wave in 1965. The 1964 release of the GTO exceeded all sales expectations, and the rest of its model range was selling like hotcakes. It was against this backdrop that it released an entirely new Catalina range. The styling won instant praise, and when finished in the Blue Charcoal Metallic, it undoubtedly turned heads. This classic’s exterior presentation is first-rate, with the seller indicating that the Wagon has received a cosmetic refresh. The paint’s deep shine and a lack of panel bumps and bruises suggest that the person performing the work focused on a high-quality result. The sparkling trim complements the dark paint color, and the first owner’s decision to order the car with the beautiful 8-lug wheels adds to the visual appeal. There is no evidence of rust, and aside from some wiper scoring on the windshield, the glass is clear.

Pontiac’s reputation for producing high-performance models is perfectly encapsulated in this Safari. The first owner equipped it with a 389ci V8, a four-speed manual transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The entry-level 389 delivered a healthy 256hp and 388 ft/lbs of torque. However, this motor trumps those figures, placing 333hp and 429 ft/lbs at the driver’s disposal. It may not be a stereotypical muscle car, but the mechanical combination ensures that this Wagon is a fairly rapid eight-seater. The seller has recently invested a considerable sum into this Pontiac’s mechanical components, ensuring that it is a turnkey proposition. They rebuilt the motor and transmission, fitted a new radiator, added a dual-reservoir master cylinder, new Cooper Cobra tires, and a new dual exhaust. They re-lined the brake drums and balanced the driveshaft before installing new U-joints. The final piece of the puzzle is a fresh Edelbrock four-barrel carburetor with an electric choke. That should ensure that the Safari is mild-mannered on cold days. All this gem needs is someone to slip behind the wheel and enjoy the power it offers when they push the pedal to the metal.

Station Wagon interiors are prone to deterioration as small feet, moving luggage, and the family dog exact a high toll on trim and upholstery. This Safari’s interior is better than most survivor-grade Wagons of this vintage, with no gaping rips or tears. New seatcovers would make a significant difference, although high-quality slipcovers would be an affordable option that would protect the vinyl from further damage and deterioration. The included new carpet set will be welcomed by most potential buyers, but the party piece is located in the rear cargo area. It features third-row seating, making this a genuine eight-seater. Occupant safety was front and center in the seller’s mind, with every occupant receiving a seatbelt. The interior doesn’t feature air conditioning or power windows, but the new owner receives a deluxe tilt wheel and an upgraded CD stereo to entertain the troops on those long summer roadtrips.

This 1965 Pontiac Catalina Safari makes a positive impression, which is undoubtedly heightened when the driver slips behind the wheel and unleashes the power of the V8 lurking under the hood. Its interior isn’t perfect, leaving the new owner with the opportunity to personalize their ride and to undertake what should be a relatively straightforward restoration. However, adding a set of slipcovers would be a cheap way to improve the appearance and could even be a viable long-term solution if the new owner invests in high-quality covers. Otherwise, it appears to have no other needs…beyond a new home. Does this classic Wagon tempt you?