Practicality can be a major consideration for some enthusiasts when purchasing a classic. Anyone who has tried to maneuver a small child into the back seat of a two-door vehicle knows that you almost need the skills of a contortionist to achieve that goal. That’s where this 1961 Pontiac Catalina rides to the rescue. As a 4-Door Hardtop, the challenges previously mentioned aren’t a consideration, while the excellent interior space means there will still be plenty of room to move when that small child becomes a teen. The Catalina presents well, with a healthy V8 under the hood and no rust, making it a classic that the buyer can enjoy immediately. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting the Pontiac listed here on Craigslist in West Seneca, New York. The seller set their price for this classic at $15,500.
Pontiac introduced an entirely new Catalina to its model range in 1961. Although many mechanical components from its predecessor were carried over into the company’s latest offering, the stylish new body rode on a more robust frame that improved safety. This first-year 4-Door Hardtop is a mystery machine. It is eye-catching in Red and White, but I’m unsure whether it is a genuine survivor. The Red paint looks too light and vibrant to be the Coronado Red found on that year’s color chart. That suggests a potential cosmetic refresh involving a color change or that this Catalina could be a Special Order vehicle. Neither possibility is mentioned in the seller’s listing, but it is a question worth posing. The paint looks quite nice and, like the panels, has no major shortcomings. Perhaps the best news hides below the surface. The underside shots reveal no evidence of existing or prior rust problems. Those shots also support my belief that someone restored this classic, because the undercoat looks virtually new. The trim is in good condition, the glass is clear, and the deal includes a couple of additional sets of pristine hubcaps.
The seller admits that this Catalina’s interior isn’t perfect. However, its condition is comfortably acceptable for a driver-grade classic. Trimmed in “Picardy Pattern” Red cloth and Maroon Jeweltone vinyl, the seats have only a few minor imperfections. The door trims are slightly warped down low, but I believe the vinyl would stretch into place. The painted surfaces are stunning, and the bright trim is excellent. The seller has protected the carpet beneath large rubber mats, and the first owner ordered this Pontiac with a pushbutton radio.
Pontiac’s 1961 Sales Brochure makes interesting reading once we focus on the Catalina’s mechanical specifications. The seller confirms that this car features the two-barrel version of the 389ci V8. Had the first owner teamed this motor with a manual transmission, it would have delivered 215hp and 390 ft/lbs of torque. However, the first owner’s decision to tick the box beside the optional three-speed Hydramatic transmission boosts those figures to 267hp and 405 ft/lbs. They also selected power steering and power brakes, both reinforcing the car’s luxury leanings. I spotted a few engine bay upgrades, including a Mallory electronic ignition with a matching high-energy coil and a chrome alternator. The seller states that the Catalina is, in their words, “shockingly fast.” It starts easily, drives beautifully, and the V8 sounds sweet through what appears to be a relatively new dual exhaust.
This 1961 Pontiac Catalina isn’t perfect, but it is the type of classic that shouldn’t present its new owner with any nasty surprises. The lack of rust might be its greatest attribute, although some readers will find the V8 a strong contender for that title. There is nothing like having an opportunity for the whole family to become involved in the classic motoring experience, and that is a realistic option. The seller’s price looks competitive for a ’61 Catalina of this caliber. It has only been on the market for a short time, and it will be interesting to see how quickly it will find a new home. Are you tempted to make that happen?
I would disagree on it for the ’90s Roadmaster earlier, but this. This car. Needs whitewalls. Not necessarily vintage wide whites, those were already on their way out when it was built and if it wasn’t born with 1″ white stripes they’d probably have been the first replacement set.