It is a harsh reality that many unrestored 1960s classics fall victim to rust. Owners face a high cost to eliminate such issues, but this 1962 Pontiac Catalina Convertible has no such problems. It is rock-solid, presenting well as a driver-grade classic with no apparent needs. It is ready for plenty of top-down summer cruising with a new owner behind the wheel. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder tim961 for spotting the Catalina listed here on Facebook Marketplace in DeKalb, Illinois. The seller set their price at $28,500, and they won’t consider trades.
After serving as a trim level from 1950, Pontiac granted the Catalina standalone model status in 1959. It released a Second Generation in 1961, with our feature Convertible rolling off the line the following year. It presents nicely in Cameo Ivory with a matching soft-top. The seller provides no historical information, so it is unclear whether this Catalina is a genuine survivor. There are no glaring cosmetic issues or shortcomings, with the paint retaining a healthy shine. Some close-up shots seem to reveal slight deterioration on the bumpers, but the remaining trim looks acceptable. Perhaps the best news hides beneath the surface. The underside shots aren’t great, and while they reveal spots of dry surface corrosion, there doesn’t appear to be any penetrating rust. Treating the corrosion would be wise before a small problem becomes a big one. The 1960s saw manufacturers treading a new path with their production models. Previously, steel wheels and hubcaps or wheelcovers were the order of the day. However, companies realized there were alternatives, which led to the advent of Rally wheels and the Super Stock series. Pontiac followed suit, developing the iconic 8-lug wheel. I believe that it was one of the best-looking wheels from that decade, and this Catalina scores points for rolling on a set.
This Catalina is a case of looks being slightly deceptive. It wears “421” badges on its exterior, but lifting the hood reveals a 389ci V8. It is unclear which version it is, but if it is the two-barrel variant, it would send 267hp to the rear wheels via a three-speed Hydramatic transmission. The car also features power steering and power brakes, providing a pretty effortless driving experience. The seller indicates that the Pontiac recently had brake work done, with both the booster and the master cylinder appearing fairly new. They state that this gem runs and drives, making it a turnkey proposition ready to provide summer fun.
Trimmed in Blue vinyl, this Catalina’s interior presents quite nicely for a driver-grade classic. There are no glaring holes in the upholstery, and the carpet looks clean. The dash and pad are in good condition, and the wheel with its translucent sections exudes class. The interior shots reveal a few imperfections in the seatcovers, and what appears to be a developing seam separation on the back seat. There is also slight damage to the driver’s door trim. However, those shortcomings aren’t deal-breakers and only require attention if the new owner seeks perfection. Otherwise, hitting the road with the top down won’t be embarrassing. The buyer won’t receive creature comforts like air conditioning, but the Convertible retains its original push-button radio.
This 1962 Pontiac Catalina Convertible isn’t perfect, but it ticks the box as a tidy, solid, driver-grade classic. It has no immediate needs, although addressing its few interior shortcomings would improve the overall appearance. The seller’s price looks quite realistic, comparing favorably with recent successful sales. Perhaps its greatest strength is its ability to seat six, making it a viable proposition for enthusiasts with a family. Have you ever owned a ’62 Catalina? Did you enjoy the experience enough to pursue this Convertible further? I wish you luck if you do.
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