We cover 1960 Pontiacs here on BF from time to time, but rarely the station wagon version. Today’s find, courtesy of T.J., is a Catalina Safari, and it’s spectacular looking as well as being unusually equipped. The seller claims it’s one of only 714 assembled with a three-on-the-tree manual transmission, and that’s not all! We need to look this one over in detail. Chadsworth, Ohio, is where you’ll find this beautiful long-roof, and it’s available here on Facebook Marketplace for $25,000.
The Catalina was Pontiac’s go-to model in ’60 and offered body styles in two-door hardtops, sedans, and convertibles, as well as four-door sedans, hardtops, and wagons. This wagon appears to be the six-passenger variety (21K produced), but a nine-passenger version (14K units) was available, too. The mileage reading is 90K, but this Catalina has clearly experienced careful use and been treated to proper storage—the rich, deep Coronado Red Iridescent finish, which contrasts perfectly with the white roof, is claimed to be 90% original! The seller tells us this is a North Dakota car and has never experienced rust. Add in the very strong chrome and complete stainless trim, and you have quite the looker. And…, it’s not just the exterior, the underside of this 213.7″ long Safari shows just as well as the topside.
The vinyl-clad interior is oh-so-typical for a car of this era; it’s a beautiful two-tone arrangement, three if you include the contrasting door panels, and it’s all in like-new condition. Even the wayback, which often bears the brunt of a wagon’s station in life, still looks sharp. The seller describes the environment by stating, “MINT factory interior…Original clock & radio (both work).”
What’s not typical for this big rig is what lies within its spotlessly clean engine compartment; it’s a 318 gross HP, 389 CI V8, known as a “Tempest 425” that is fed by a three 2-barrel carburetor arrangement known as “Tri-Power”. The seller states, “Runs & drives as new” and then adds, “You’ve all heard the saying ‘rides like a Cadillac’, THIS beautiful Pontiac rides even better!” Finishing off the powertrain, as previously mentioned, is a not-typical three-speed manual transmission.
We continue to sing the praises of old station wagons because of their unprecedented growth in popularity. This Safari, however, is even that much more, especially considering its very notable condition and powertrain. And, being a Pontiac adds to the excitement as it’s not the usually discovered Ford or Chevrolet. Let’s talk price. At a $25,000 ask, I don’t think this one’s out of line; how about you?
Worth it.
Of course it’s not out of line! Take a trip to your local foreign car dealer and buy a new SUV for 40 to 50 K, or buy Lincoln or Cadillac for another 10 or 20 K.
Obviously it’s worth it! Or you could go to your local car dealer and pay 40 to 60 k for a new SUV.
We had one of these that my Dad bought from the original owner,
back around 1963.It didn’t have a really cool engine like this one,
& I can remember how we hated riding in that thing with it’s vinyl
interior.You stuck to the seats in the Summer,& froze on them in the
Winter,& of course,it didn’t have A/C.
I find it odd that the typical “Tri-Power” medallions are missing from the front fenders as during this era cars from the factory with “Tri-Power” had the medallions on both sides of the car between the front wheel wells and the front door. Does anyone else find this ‘different” and maybe the tri-power was an add on at a later date in the car ??
I noticed the fuel lines and fittings don’t look all that old. I don’t remember what the factory setup looked like; maybe someone better versed can set me straight.
Absolutely beautiful ’60 Pontiac. I was very pleasantly surprised to see a Tri-Power 389 under the hood with the three on the tree. Its absolutely worth every penny. Love the color combination too. Just beautiful. Great write up Jim!!!
This beauty won’t last long. You’re getting alot of Poncho for $25K!! What is not to like about this one? NOTHING! Right color (Honduras maroon) right engine, beautiful interior, and straight as an arrow! However, it needs the right dog dishes and period-correct wide whitewalls. (hubcaps appear to be the `65 variety)
Very nice car, someone is going to have lots of fun with this one…
Listing now says “SOLD.” Someone saw the value. What a beautiful survivor.
That is another amazing Pontiac.
cool wagon. would have like seen some phc docs on it. i would say the Tri power was a add on. loke the hubcap look.
Some time ago a good friend divested himself of this specific 1960 Safari. I knew it had 3-on-the-tree but I did NOT know it had 3 deuces under the bonnet. Nor do I know what he let it go for. However, he is a very meticulous purchaser & maintainer so this seller received a very pristine wagon. I admit having lusted for more than 1 of his rides. He is eclectic in his choices & I’m envious w/o question. I’d venture to say that this is, in all likelihood, the only one in existence.
WAYYYY underpriced!
I love every mile of this car. I also love the 70 Pontiac Catalina wagon’s profile.
389 with tripower and 3 on the tree seems like a strange combination but I really like it!!