The seller describes this 1952 Pontiac Chieftain Catalina as an awesome driver. Their listing images seem to support that claim, as the Pontiac presents well and features a straight-eight under the hood. They dropped the ride slightly to emphasize its swooping lines. Otherwise, it is unmolested. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mike F for spotting the Catalina here on Craigslist in Peyton, Colorado, for $28,000 OBO.
Released in 1949 as the company’s first new post-war model, the First Generation Chieftain remained on sale until 1954. The Catalina joined the party in 1950 as the Hardtop variant, remaining available throughout this generation’s production life. This 1952 example features a two-tone combination of Seamist Green and Belfast Green, giving this luxury model a classy look. The paint doesn’t hold a mirror shine, but instead has a warm glow you would expect from a survivor with over seven decades under its belt. The seller’s emphasis on originality suggests no restoration history, and the overall presentation is impressive if that is the case. There are no genuine cosmetic shortcomings, and no evidence of rust. The trim looks excellent for a classic of this vintage, and the glass is clear. The seller performed a 3″ ride drop, giving the Pontiac a more purposeful stance that should also improve the handling. Rounding out the exterior are steel wheels with full covers and whitewall tires.
Pontiac unveiled its straight-eight flathead engine, which became known as the Silver Streak, for the 1933 model year. It served faithfully into the 1950s, although it looked antiquated in its final years as it competed with OHV V8s. It reached its maximum capacity of 268.4ci in 1952, which was the year our featured car rolled off the line. The motor wasn’t a bad thing, and while its power and torque figures of 118hp and 222 ft/lbs of torque might seem modest, the eight was a “lazy” engine that produced its maximum torque low in the rev range. That made it ideal to pair with the new-for-1952 Dual Range Hydramatic transmission, which this Catalina’s first owner chose. The seller says that they recently replaced the braking system, allowing the Pontiac to stop on a dime. They also installed a new fuel pump, water pump, voltage regulator, and rebuilt the generator. It runs and drives beautifully, so the buyer can fly in and drive it home.
Trimmed in two-tone Green leather matching the exterior paint combination, the Pontiac’s interior makes a positive impression. The seatcovers might be slightly stretched, but there is no evidence of developing holes or other problems. The paint is crisp and clean, and the plated items show no obvious pitting. I love the clock and its chrome surround, while other appointments include a heater, defroster, and the optional seven-valve radio.
When Pontiac attached the Catalina badge to the First Generation Chieftain, it never imagined the Catalina would become an integral part of its history for over two decades as a standalone model. This 1952 Chieftain Catalina is a striking car, but the seller’s high-end asking price means that it needs to be to justify that figure. However, since the price is negotiable, respectful haggling may improve the situation. It has no apparent needs and would suit enthusiasts seeking a “plug-and-play” classic. It begs the question: What would you pay for this Pontiac?
Beautiful car! Got a chance to drive a ’52 convertible, same color, cross country and back. It certainly earned it’s cruiser merit badge with it’s 80 mph low noise performance. This old boy should be fun to put on a long road.
Here’s a sweetheart for ya’,,,,I bet that Chief hood ornament lights up. While the straight 8 was mighty impressive in 1933, by the 50s, only Pontiac and Packard used flathead 8s, and were the last to use them. I chuckled at the authors use of the “7 valve” radio,( they made an 8 tube as well) I never heard vacuum tubes called that, and clearly defines his location, of British/Australian lingo. Regardless, it was a hefty option, almost $140. The automatic was also pricey, at almost $180, making this the most expensive Pontiac in 1952 at about $2485. The only one more was the convertible at $2550. Compared to a base 6 cylinder Pontiac at about $1900, for the extra $600 bucks, you got quite a car. While this car, like the Packard, was “lazy” upon acceleration, make no mistake, get this car rolling, it was a road car in true Pontiac fashion. I hope someone enjoys this car, pretty hard not to.
Back in 1985-1986 I spent a year living in the Florida Everglades off the old loop road.
The place belonged to the whore I was living with at the time’s parents. It had a one room cabin, two ponds and a 1951 Pontiac Chieftain 2 door hardtop that had been abandoned by an Uncle. As far as I know it’s still there, although condition is unknown. But it was complete with all the desirable chrome, engine and parts.
This subject car is a beauty, put aftermarket a/c in it and make it a perfect eye catching cruiser.
God Bless America