Crazy Custom: 1960 Pontiac Ventura

It is true that while some classics appearing on Barn Finds raise barely a murmur, others will ignite spirited debate. I expect this 1960 Pontiac Ventura to fall into the second category. It is a crazy custom with so many changes, it is almost impossible to know where to start when describing it. One thing is certain: the new owner will turn heads wherever they go. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder JDC for spotting the Pontiac listed here on eBay in Fairport, New York. The seller set their auction to open at $5,000, but has received no bids.

I admit that I’ve been scratching my head, trying to decide where to start when describing this first-year Ventura. Originally a five-seater, this classic is now most definitely a two-seater. It features significant sheetmetal changes, with the seller indicating that it is a Barris-style build. There are a few original Ventura panels and bright trim pieces, but a fair amount of fabricated bodywork. The highlight for some will be the radiator shell, complete with the studded grille. It makes a bold visual statement, and the sparkling trim does contrast with the Red paint quite effectively. The panel fit and gaps vary across the vehicle, and I’m unsure whether adjusting hinges may improve the situation. It is definitely a dry-weather proposition, as there is no top to protect occupants from the elements.

Powering this creation is a 350ci Chevrolet V8, teamed with a Turbo 400 automatic transmission. The front suspension features a 4″ drop axle, with the rear suspension from a 2000s Crown Victoria. Power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes should give this beast excellent stopping power. The seller doesn’t disclose the specs for the small-block, but with a significant reduction in body steel, the “lightweight” Pontiac should offer pretty respectable performance. I quite like the custom air cleaner setup, which is as wild as the exterior. The seller states that this Ventura runs and drives well and is ready for some weekend cruising or a jaw-dropping appearance at a Cars & Coffee.

This Ventura’s interior didn’t escape the custom touches. It features modern bucket seats trimmed in Gray leather, with the remaining upholstered surfaces finished in diamond-patterned Charcoal Gray. The dash houses a brace of gauges, including a GPS speedometer. The interior is tidy and free from significant wear, but there is scope for the buyer to improve its appearance. Its most visible shortcoming is the finish at the top of the door trims. The edges look raw and incomplete, and need some form of edge treatment or strip to improve the look. It appears there is no radio, in-car entertainment, or air conditioning.

I am pretty sure that this 1960 Pontiac Ventura Custom will divide opinions. I suspect that some readers will love it, while others will feel that just because you can do something, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you should. The fact that it hasn’t received any bids and only two people have added it to their Watch List suggests it hasn’t struck a chord with potential buyers. If there were an award for persistence, this seller deserves it. This is the third time they have listed this classic. How many more times do you think they will need to try before the Pontiac finds a new home?