1960 Pontiac Bonneville Convertible
The Pontiac Bonneville is an automobile built by Pontiac from 1957 until 2005. Bonnevilles were full-sized, with the exception of a brief period of mid-size between 1982 and 1986. The brand was introduced as a limited production performance convertible during the 1957 model year. The Bonneville (known as the Parisienne in Canada until 1981), and its platform partner, the Grand Ville, are some of the largest Pontiacs ever built; in station wagon body styles they reached just over 230 inches (5.8 m) long, and at 5,000 pounds (2,300 kg) and more were also some of the heaviest cars produced at the time.
One of the products to come of the turnaround was the Bonneville halo car, which was a hugely exclusive, expensive and performance-oriented car aimed at the young and upwardly mobile set. Just over 600 were built, one per U.S. Pontiac dealership, and while not everyone could afford to have one, it drew people to showrooms to see what the car was all about. Bonneville would become more of a household name through the years, known for its youthful but elegant, aggressive but luxurious nature. For 1960, the entire full-size lineup at GM would carryover a stunningly flat beltline and even more restrained use of brightwork and trim, ushering in the new flavor of 1960s automotive styling.
This 1960 Pontiac Bonneville Convertible was powered by a 400ci V8 engine with a Tri-Power induction system featuring triple two-barrel carburetors paired to a 4-speed automatic transmission. This convertible hosts a list of options, including power windows, power steering, power seats, power brakes and a power convertible top. It has been restored to a high standard in a beautiful Coronado Red Metallic color.
The cabin features front bucket seats and a rear bench trimmed in tri-tone red vinyl upholstery, which is complimented by a color-coordinated dashboard, door panels, and carpeting. Amenities include power-operated windows, woodgrain and stainless trim accents, kick panel vents, quarter vent windows, and a retro-style AM/FM stereo. The two-spoke steering wheel wears a chrome horn ring and fronts a horizontal 120-mph speedometer along with an analog clock and gauges for fuel level, coolant temperature, and amperage.
The 1960 Pontiac Bonneville boasted a big smooth impressive presence with superior performance and handling. The wide track Pontiac’s offered exciting driving-filled to the brim with action and the Bonneville was wrapped in luxury that was unsurpassed by far more expensive cars.
