Classic Hot Rods

1970 Pontiac Catalina Convertible

The Pontiac Catalina is a full-size automobile produced by Pontiac from 1950 to 1981. Initially, the name was a trim line on hardtop body styles, first appearing in the 1950 Chieftain Eight and DeLuxe Eight lines. In 1959, it became a separate model as the “entry-level” full-size Pontiac.

In 1970, the Pontiac Catalina received a facelift. It had radiator grilles inspired by Grand Prix, hoods with wider and flatter center bulges, taillights set into bumpers, wrapover front fender tips, and hidden radio antennas. They had plain body sill molding and had “Catalina” lettering or “Ventura” lettering to show that it was equipped with the Ventura package, behind the front wheel openings. Catalinas also had untrimmed taillights, horizontal blade grilles, no fender skirts, and “Pontiac” centered on the edge of rear deck.

This 1970 Pontiac Catalina Convertible was the recipient of a restoration in the 1990s and is powered by a 400ci V8 with a Holley fuel injection system. Equipment includes an automatic transmission, power brakes, power steering, an electronic convertible top, power windows.

Sandalwood vinyl showing some areas of wear, but overall good condition covers the front and rear seating, both benches. The dash is the standard GM style dash for 1970. Door panels are slightly showing some warp, and house the power window toggles. Carpet is darker brown.

Low, wide and long, with Pontiacs legendary wide track stance, Catalina  has a presence that  turns heads and causes a stir. Overall shorter than the Bonneville, Catalina appears almost a bit sporty in comparison.

The summer is coming – and parking a gigantic land yacht in your garage is entirely appropriate to do when the weather turns fair. This 1970 Pontiac Catalina convertible is rough around the edges but a seemingly deserving project that could continue to be used as-is or refreshed further if better-than-driver-quality is your goal.