When a classic tips the scales at over 4,000 lbs, it requires something special under the hood to deliver respectable performance. This 1966 Pontiac Catalina Ventura ticks that box, courtesy of its 421ci V8. The car presents superbly, and the fact that it is a dry-climate survivor enhances its appeal. Located in Ventura (where else?), California, the seller has listed the Pontiac here on eBay. They set their price at $23,750, and the listing view history suggests that plenty of people like what they see.

During the 1950s, the Catalina badge had existed within Pontiac’s model range as a trim level for its Chieftain and Star Chief models. However, it gained standalone status in 1959, and would soldier on in various forms until 1981. This 1966 example is a Catalina Ventura that presents exceptionally well. It is a dry-climate classic that remains rust-free, and if this is a genuine survivor, the condition of its Code N Burgundy paint is particularly noteworthy. A close inspection will probably reveal flaws and imperfections, but its overall shine and the lack of panel problems guarantee that this gentle giant will draw crowds wherever it goes. The trim and glass are equally impressive, and while the Cragar wheels aren’t original, they don’t look out of place.

With an overall length of almost 215 inches and a curb weight of 4,081 lbs, this Catalina isn’t a small or subtle classic. Pontiac’s 389ci V8 was the entry-level powerplant in 1966, but this car’s first owner craved more. Therefore, they selected a 421ci powerplant, a three-speed automatic for shifting duties, and power-assisted steering and front disc brakes. The motor generates 338hp and 459 ft/lbs of torque. That’s enough to propel the Catalina through the ¼-mile in 15.3 seconds on its way to 131mph. That made this a car worth respecting. The seller states that this Ventura is numbers-matching, which is great news for those considering its potential future worth. They recently splashed thousands on a transmission rebuild, the rear end seals, the front end, and the fuel tank. This classic has no mechanical needs or shortcomings, allowing the buyer to fly in for a Californian Christmas vacation before driving home behind the wheel of this Catalina.

If I were to mark this Catalina’s interior harshly, I would identify the gauge cut into the dash and the slightly faded carpet as shortcomings. However, they are the only items faintly deserving a mention. The Black vinyl trim is in good condition, the dash and pad are excellent, and that beautiful wheel exhibits none of the deterioration often seen following UV exposure. I am surprised that, given its location, the first owner didn’t tick the box beside air conditioning on their Order Form. However, it scores an AM radio to provide in-car entertainment.

Style, space, power. This 1966 Pontiac Catalina seems to have it all. Throw excellent presentation and its rust-free status into the mix, and it is easy to see why the seller’s listing has achieved over 250 views in the last day alone. Will that interest translate into a successful sale? Only time will tell, but with the seller’s price looking competitive, I think that a new home is in this Pontiac’s near future.