We cover a lot of mid-sixties full-size Pontiacs, and Impalas, here on BF but I can’t recall a 1969 Pontiac Catalina convertible ever turning up. As for ’69 Pontiacs, the vast majority of our posts are GTOs with Firebirds and some Grand Prix’s thrown in for good measure. So, that being the case, and considering this Catalina’s fine condition, here you go. Located in Valley Center, California, this Catalina drop top is available, here on craigslist for $28,500.

Catalina may have been the bottom rung in Poncho’s ’69 line-up (Ventura, Executive, and Bonneville preceded it) but that doesn’t mean that a Catalina is some sort of a bargain basement model for “budget conscious” buyers. That said, the Catalina sales brochure’s statement, “Every time we bring out a new Catalina, some of our competitors suggest we’re in a league with the Little Green People” is odd to say the least. I have no idea what that’s supposed to mean. All I know is that the ’69 Catalina came in four different body styles, a two-door hardtop, a four-door hardtop and sedan, and a convertible. The two-door sedan, a rarely encountered model, was dropped after the ’68 model year.

My guess is this Cat has been restored – the listing makes no claim one way or another. The Mayfair Maize finish is brilliant – I don’t recall seeing too many full-size Tin Indians finished this way. The body appears to be razor-straight and is going for a less-is-more look with some of the trim and badging removed. The top’s buckskin hue always works nicely with this pale shade of yellow. While generally not a fan of big hoops, this Catalina wears its well.

So, do you think this Pontiac really is a Catalina? The seats tell us, yes, so I guess so. The interior looks fantastic! I would have probably gone with a single shade as opposed to a two-tone, but what’s here looks well executed and is probably a very recent upgrade. The goodness factor extends to the door and upholstery panels and includes the carpet. I like the steering wheel, it looks like an aftermarket version of a standard GM design.

The listing claims, “Runs and drives great” as this 46K mile (according to the odometer) rag top is powered by a 400 CI V8 engine, likely a 290 gross HP version though there was an optional 265 HP (low compression) version available too – and that’s assuming that it’s the original engine. Research indicates that a four-barrel carburetor version of the venerable 400 CI mill wasn’t available in the full-size car. A Turbo-Hydramatic 400, three-speed automatic transmission pilots the rear wheels. There is an open-element air cleaner in place and judging by the fuel line, I’ll guess a four-barrel carburetor in place of the original dual-jet.

This is a great-looking Catalina and appears to need nothing. My only question surrounds the price. What’s your estimate, just right (I’d say it’s close) or not quite?