Named after a Parisian female (Paris, France), the Pontiac Parisienne was built by GM of Canada from 1958 to 1986. While it looked like a U.S. Catalina, Chevrolet mechanical components were under the hood. The seller has a Custom Sport convertible from 1964, said to be one of just 2,900 produced. This drop-top runs and drives but will need some cosmetic attention. Located in Edmonton, Alberta, this “Cheviac” is available here on craigslist for $8,500 (Canadian or U.S. currency?). We’re grateful to “Zappenduster” for yet another yesteryear tip!
From all external viewpoints except badging, the 1964 Parisienne looked like a U.S. automobile. But when you popped the hood, that’s when things started to change. These vehicles were nearly the same as a Chevy Impala (or Bel Air or Biscayne). A 327 cubic inch V8 was a common choice as was a 2-speed automatic transmission, and both appear to be in the seller’s car. In Canada, these cars were assembled at the Oshawa Car Assembly Plant in Ontario.
We don’t know the history of this 60-year-old Pontiac/Chevrolet hybrid. Its physical appearance is fair with some rust in the lower extremities, faded paint (maroon?), and parts of the interior are held together with duct tape. This car has power steering and brakes and comes with bucket seats and a console, so the original owner no doubt wanted a spirited ride.
Recent repairs and maintenance include new tires, brakes, and a master cylinder. So mechanically it may be up to snuff. Besides dealing with issues of the body and paint, the seller adds that a new convertible top is needed (we only see the bonnet in the down position). If you’re into vintage Pontiacs and would enjoy having one built “north of the border”, you’ll need to factor in the cost of getting this car into the U.S. (besides its purchase price).
Parieesey.
Nothing so exotic for our locally assembled versions. A 4dr sedan, 283/Powerglide was all that was available.
My uncle George in Wollongong had a 4 door sedan – grey with red interior – it was an incredible car – floaty ride and had a V8 …. !!! He once had it up to 100 mph at Madden Plains I think he said …..
Reminds me of my old 64 Grand Prix only mine was a hardtop. It looks nice but if it has a 327 acceleration must be sedate. My Pontiac had a 389 and a four speed and I could smoke ’em but anything less. IDK.
Restoration by Red Green?
Good one eh!
Hahaha! Wondering how far Edmonton is from Possum Lake!
Edmitten, Alberta
I have one of these in a hardtop. This Pontiac is a Custom Sport, equivalent to an Impala SS. It appears to be a 250 horsepower version of the 327. They are a real hybrid, Grand Prix styled grilles and upholstery without the rear armrest, Bonneville lower side trim and roofline, (also the same as an Impala). Pure Chevy X frame and engines and transmissions. This is the first and only year for the Custom Sport on the X frame. They are a very nice and unique Pontiac. The main downside is the narrow Chevy track on the wider Pontiac body. This can be somewhat remedied by installing 7 or 8″ wider wheels. Being a Chev engine, the sky is the limit on engine mods. Mine is a 300 horsepower version. I really like the upscale Pontiac dash.
This one is a project for sure. It’s tough finding good pit free side trim, but the floors and trunk are the same as a Chev.
These cars from Canada look strange coming down the road without the widetrack stance. They look top heavy.
I’ve always liked the ’63s front but the ’64@ tail. Those big vertical taillights were very cool for back then. You knew it was a Pontiac especially at night. Loved the way Pontiac turned them into the backup lights on the Gran Prix.
The best thing about Pontiac in the sixties besides power were the dashboards. Very shiny lots of chrome, excellent styling. I love the heater/ac/vent controls designed to mimic the radio. Aunt & uncle next door had a ’63 Catalina station wagon, cousin had a ’63 Bonneville convertible as did another aunt.
Still can’t figure out why I never had a Pontiac
My uncle George in Wollongong had a 4 door sedan – grey with red interior – it was an incredible car – floaty ride and had a V8 …. !!! He once had it up to 100 mph at Madden Plains I think he said …..