There are few things more rewarding than tackling a first hands-on project build, but the process also comes with its own potential stresses. If the builder is unsure of their skill levels, the thought of taking to a desirable classic that may have already set them back a five-figure sum before it rolls into the workshop could seem daunting. That’s where cars like this 1976 Pontiac Ventura fit into the equation. Fully restored, it is unlikely to command a high value. However, the buyer will be commencing their restoration with one of the most affordable candidates that you will find in today’s market. Located in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, the owner has listed the Ventura for sale here on eBay. He has set a BIN of $1,500 OBO.
This Ventura rolled off the line wearing Bavarian Cream paint. While the 1976 Pontiac color palette offered more attractive shades, this one provides a neutral appearance that is unlikely to alienate potential future buyers. Of course, with the work required to whip this classic into shape, the next owner may elect to perform a color change, which could be tempting. The panels have accumulated their share of dents and scars, but there’s nothing beyond salvation with a bit of patience. That inevitably leads us to the subject of rust, and this Ventura has not avoided the attention of the tin worm. The owner indicates that this classic is structurally sound, but it appears there could be rust in the trunk pan. That may indicate floor issues, but only an in-person inspection would provide a definitive answer. Externally, steel penetration is apparent in both lower rear quarter panels and some small spots in the front fender bottoms. These issues are not severe, and some careful work could see the new owner fashion patches to address the problems. Alternatively, I have located a supplier stocking lower quarter panel patches for under $50 each. If fabrication is overwhelming, these represent an affordable option. The remaining panels and rockers look clean, so if any potential underside problems prove minor, returning this Pontiac to a rust-free state could be a straightforward learning experience. The rear bumper filler panels are damaged beyond repair, and if originality isn’t crucial, fiberglass reproductions retail for around $100. The remaining exterior trim looks suitable for restoration, while the tinted glass has no significant issues.
Ventura buyers in 1976 could select from four engines to power their new toy, and the original owner trod the middle ground by opting for the 260ci V8. They backed this with a three-speed Hydramatic transmission, while power brakes should bring proceedings to a halt pretty effectively. This little V8 was no performance powerhouse, pumping out a mere 110hp. Coupled with the automatic transmission, it allowed the Ventura to wander through the ¼ mile in a relatively leisurely 20.4 seconds. The company offered a couple of manual transmission options for this motor, but even those proved unwilling or unable to break through the 19-second ¼ mile mark. It appears that this Pontiac has been sitting for years, and I admit that I find the accumulated surface corrosion around the engine bay concerning. That makes me wonder what may be lurking on the vehicle’s underside. The seller has coaxed the engine back to life, saying it sounds excellent. The car is nowhere near roadworthy, but it does run and drive. It may seem like a lot of effort, but pulling the engine and detailing everything within an inch of its life could provide another tremendous skill-development exercise for the next owner.
This Ventura’s interior is a genuine mixed bag because while components like the back seat look pretty good, many of the remaining upholstered surfaces and the carpet are trashed. Before spending any money, the buyer may find it wise to disassemble and clean the interior to confirm what could be salvaged. A new front seat cover will be essential, costing around $220. A carpet set would be similar, while items like armrests will need to go on the shopping list. Since the financial viability of this project could be marginal, minimizing expenditure will be paramount. That’s why I suggest that spending time to avoid spending money would be a sensible approach. The Ventura is not a luxury car, but this classic’s factory air conditioning is a welcome feature.
I acknowledge that this 1976 Pontiac Ventura won’t set many hearts racing and that it is unlikely to command a high price in today’s market. However, that may not be the role this car plays in its next owner’s life. It has a lot of potential if viewed purely as an affordable skills development project. If the buyer achieves perfection on their restoration, its value might squeeze close to $13,000. If that’s the case and the owner completes most of the work themselves, there’s a fair amount of room to move before the financial viability becomes doubtful. Even if the costs run slightly over, it could still represent a small price to pay for an educational exercise. That’s why it is worth considering for a first-timer who intends to tackle a more desirable classic in the future.
One thing hasn’t changed about those cars in 45 years. They’re still crap, restored or not.
I think we’ve seen this one before. Still for sale and still scrap metal value
Leaf spring shackles were the weak point on these X-bodies.
The rear axle would get torqued and they would dog track down the street.
When towing one once I had to drop it and re-hook it from the rear, after narrowly missing parked cars on a One Way street.
The Olds engine is easily identifiable by the vertical oil filler neck.
🎶 🎵….Chewing on a piece of grass
Walking down the road
Tell me, how long you gonna stay here Joe?
Some people say this town don’t look
Good in snow
You don’t care, I know
Ventura highway in the sunshine
Where the days are longer
The nights are stronger
Than moonshine
You’re gonna go I know
‘Cause the free wind is blowing through
Your hair
And the days surround your daylight
There
Seasons crying no despair
Alligator lizards in the air….🎶 🎵
Ah, the days when GM had distinctive designs for their models; take this Nova for example…what, it’s NOT a Chevy Nova?
An Olds Omega?
A Buick Skylark?
Never mind.
I’d be more interested in some of the cars in the background.
Dennis Go to the E-BAY ad and click other things for sale
You have to give this car credit:
It’s avoided the crusher for many many years, AND Cash For Clunkers.
Interesting this came up at the same time as the ’72 Nova. My father bought a ’76 Ventura to replace my mom’s ’71 Nova (which eventually found it’s way to me). Mom’s Pontiac was the same color as this one, but a 6 cyl. Actually, I learned to drive in the Ventura. Never really cared for it, especially with the 307 Nova at the end of the driveway waiting for me.
I bought a rust free ventura like this in Albuquerque. I paid $1,500 for it, shipped it back to Milwaukee, drove it for a couple summers, got bored with it (231), then sold it for $3,000. Mine was far more than $1,500 worth of body work cleaner than this one. These are so inexpensive compared to a Nova, this is barely a parts car.
Being the geek that I am, I’ve always liked these cars, and would love to be able to find one that’s worth buying as a 3-season daily driver. This one, unfortunately, is a lost cause. I would just scrap it for beer money and be done with it.
I bought one just like this as an afterthought. I had gone out to look at a Citation that was supposedly in good condition, but was really a rusted out piece of junk. On the way out of his neighborhood I remembered a Ventura that I saw in the paper that was close by. The car was setting out in the road, it was in fabulous condition, the owner came out with the keys, the car started up and ran beautifully, I handed him $200, he pulled the title out of his pocket, and I was down the road in less than ten minutes!!!
I drove that car for years.
To all that have commented on the 1976 Pontiac Ventura I bought it for 1000 and had it shipped to upstate ny come to find out it’s a Florida car with 97k on the clock. These are very rare and the floor frame is all good. Trunk needs a little work . A question to all what do u buy for a 1000 today? Its not scrap.Even the original catalytic converter is still on it.
Congratulations, Bernard! Sincerely! I hope you find everything you need to bring it back to decent condition, and that it brings you many years of pleasure!