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2011 Shannons Melbourne Autumn Classic Auction
Lot
19

1961 Pontiac Bonneville 'Pillarless' Sedan (RHD)

PASSED IN

Passed In

Specifications

Engine 389cu, V8
Gearbox 4 speed Automatic
Body Work Pillarless Saloon
Colour Richmond Grey Metall
Interior Red
Trim Lurex Cloth/Vinyl
Wheels Steel Disc
Brakes Drum

Description

This lot is no longer available

1961 was a good year for the Pontiac Corporation. They claimed the number 3 in the US sales position for large cars, a position they were able to hang onto for the remainder of the 60's. It was also the year they brought back the very distinctive front 'split grille' and very popular triple tail lights, the split grille and the Wide Track slogan. The latter was not just ad copy either as Pontiac pushed its wheels further out toward the fenders than anyone else and created what were considered to be the best-comering full size cars in the industry. Both the grille design and the Wide Track phrase are still part of Pontiac's image today. The Bonneville remained as Pontiac's costliest and most luxurious model throughout the 1960's.