Early Pontiac compacts have gained steady appreciation among collectors, and this 1963 Pontiac LeMans Convertible represents a particularly appealing survivor. Currently listed on eBay by a private seller, the car is described as a largely original example with 88,000 miles and a clean title.
Power comes from the original 326 cubic-inch engine paired with an automatic transmission and console-mounted floor shifter. The seller notes that the car starts, runs, and drives smoothly, making it a usable classic rather than just a static project. According to the listing, this LeMans spent most of its life near San Francisco, California before being purchased by the current owner about three years ago and transported to northern Kentucky. Along with the car, the seller is including its original California black license plates. Documentation from Pontiac Historical Services (PHS) is also part of the package, which can help verify the car’s original specifications and history.
The seller emphasizes that the car is very rust-free, noting it as one of the cleanest examples they have encountered. The body is said to retain its original paint, with the exception of the nose panel, which has been sprayed with white primer. The presence of original paint is highlighted as a benefit, since it avoids concerns about hidden repairs or concealed rust beneath newer finishes.
The car does show some typical signs of age. The seller notes that it carries some patina along with bumps and bruises accumulated over the years. The convertible top has been replaced and still presents well, although the underside bolsters were not replaced at the same time and remain original, showing some deterioration.
Inside, the interior is described as original and in very good condition. There is reportedly a small spot and some worn piping on the driver’s seat, but otherwise the cabin appears well preserved. The original carpet remains in excellent condition.
The power convertible top is said to function properly, and the original parade boot is included with the car. The tires and brakes were reportedly replaced shortly before the seller purchased the vehicle, and the engine received a tune-up at that time as well.
With original paint, documented history, and a rust-free body, this LeMans presents a straightforward opportunity for someone who appreciates well-preserved classics. Would you leave this survivor just as it is, or refinish it and take it to the next level?
These are a one year car and I think that 326 is actually 330 something. Can’t remember for sure what it was but to drop it in the Tempest – Lemans due to some GM rule it was a 326. This would be a great driver with a weekend maybe two of going through it ensuring many more years of driving pleasure. Hoses, cooling and brakes and fix that engine oil leak. The only two of this platform to use 4 wheel independent suspension was this and the Corvair. Also if I remember correctly Pontiac took some ringers to Daytona and cleaned the clocks of everything there. The weight distribution was dialed in. Again this car should be able to provide it’s new owner plenty of smiles per mile and that’s what it’s all about.
Cadmalis, you’re right. In 1963, GM had a rule that the largest allowable engine In a small car was 330 cubic inches. Pontiac already had the 336 motor, so they used it in these LeMans and called it a 326. they only did it for one year. In 1964, it was downsized to 326.
Torque tube. Rare part to try to find on a one year only car
This should be a fun and lively car. Lighter than the GM A bodies of 64 and later, 4 wheel independent suspension and 5.3 liters of V8 fun and a rear mounted trans axle for better balance and weight distribution. I’m surprised John Delorian did not put a 389 into one of these to make the first GTO. The 326 and 389 are the same external size and weigh about the same. Very nice car!
maybe whoever buys it will drop a high compression 389 or even a 421 (they will fit too)!
I think I read the flex drive rope was stout enough to handle a lot higher HP engine, this car should be a lot of fun the way it is. BIN is $18k, I doubt that it reaches that, but you never know. I was tempted by a local Tempest vert like this but it had the 4 cylinder, it went for under $2500 I think.