You must always admire a person who shows such dedication to a particular marque that they surround themselves with vehicles wearing that badge to the virtual exclusion of others. That is the story behind this 1963 Pontiac Grand Prix. It is one of an extensive collection from the 1960s, and almost all are destined for new homes as the owner culls their collection. Like its stablemates, this Grand Prix spent its life in a dry climate, meaning that although it looks baked, it is as solid today as it was when it rolled off the line in Southgate, California. As a matter of fact, the seller purchased this car with plans on using it as a metal donor for their 421-equipped Grand Prix since this car is so solid. If you feel irresistibly drawn to a classic that offers an ideal combination of looks, luxury, and performance, you can bid for this gem exclusively here at Barn Finds Auctions.

Pontiac introduced the First Generation Grand Prix in 1962, successfully combining looks, performance, and luxury to produce what many consider a genuine Grand Tourer. This car rolled off the line in 1963 and has remained dormant for years. Its Saddle Bronze paint has seen better days, but the lack of rust means the buyer has several options to consider. There is the type of surface corrosion you expect from cars in this climate. Treating it to prevent further deterioration could be the first step in returning this classic to our roads as an unrestored survivor. Stripping away the corrosion to recapture the Pontiac’s former glory is possible and is a task the new owner could tackle in a home workshop. The trim might be okay with a polish, but the vehicle wears a mixture of wheels. However, this need not be a problem because an online search will uncover something to suit every taste. The windshield is badly cracked, but the remaining Soft Ray tinted glass shows no signs of problems.

Every manufacturer has an engine that is a staple during a particular period. For Pontiac in the early 1960s, that honor fell to its iconic 389ci V8. It existed in many forms, with this car’s version sending 303hp to the rear wheels via a three-speed Hydramatic transmission. The original owner spent $107.60 on power steering plus $43.00 on power brakes. Although it tips the scales at 4,100 lbs, the 303hp generated by its V8 allowed it to storm the ¼-mile in 16.6 seconds. It is unclear when this Grand Prix last fired a shot in anger, but the indications are it has enjoyed a long hibernation. The time has come for revival, and the robust nature of the mechanical components means the task shouldn’t be too complicated.

The Grand Prix was released as a luxury model, and its interior reveals why it rightfully claimed that crown. Luxurious bucket seats, a console, and range-topping “Morrokide” vinyl upholstery make any journey an occasion. This car’s interior lifts that feel to a higher level courtesy of White upholstery. I always believe that choosing that trim color is brave, but it could be a masterstroke with this car. It is undeniably dirty, but I can’t see any signs of rips or tears on the front buckets. That means deep cleaning could return them, and most trim pieces to an acceptable state for a survivor-grade vehicle. The news isn’t as good with the back seat, which has sunrot. I located a new cover in the correct color and material for $360, which is not outrageous. The headliner is past its best and is another item for the winning bidder to add to their shopping list. It is missing parts like armrests, the original Super Deluxe AM radio, and a few console pieces. However, finding the missing components via online auction sites could be satisfying for those wishing to be hands-on. If that proves the case, the winning bidder might receive plenty of compliments without spending a fortune.

For all his failings as a business owner, John DeLorean had his finger on the buying public’s pulse in the 1960s. He was directly involved in developing the Grand Prix, believing there was a ready market for cars that successfully combined luxury and performance. His vision was vindicated, with 72,959 buyers driving away in a Grand Prix in 1963. This one is a beauty, and its lack of rust makes it an ideal candidate for someone seeking a first or hands-on project build. With the demise of Pontiac, preserving cars like this has become imperative so future generations can clearly understand what has been lost. Are you up for the challenge of restoring this Grand Prix or would it make a good donor car for the seller’s 421 Grand Prix that’s also up for grabs? If your answer is positive for either option, submitting a bid could be the perfect first step.

• Location: Phoenix, Arizona
• Mileage:  125,600, TMU
• Engine: 389 ci V8
• Transmission: Hydromatic
• VIN: 963S 27466
• Title Status: Clean

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