Whenever I look at cars like this 1963 Pontiac Bonneville, I find it amazing that a company that produced vehicles of this caliber could eventually succumb to financial rationalism. However, that was the marque’s fate, and the automotive world is poorer for losing a brand that produced some of the most iconic cars to roll off an American production line. The company’s demise means it is more vital than ever that enthusiasts strive to preserve these cars for future generations to appreciate. That opportunity awaits this classic’s winning bidder. It is solid and complete, meaning returning it to active service should not be complicated. The Pontiac needs a new home, so the owner has listed it exclusively at Barn Finds Auctions.

If I were the winning bidder of this auction, I would give this Bonneville a thorough wash the moment it got home. The supplied photos paint a positive picture that would prompt me to treat it to a wet sand and polish. The existing Cameo Ivory paint looks consistent across the vehicle, and any chips or marks look minor. However, what has caught my eye is the lack of apparent rust and other panel damage. The panels appear rock-solid, and following my strategy could produce a classic that presents well as a genuine survivor. The attraction is that this approach would cost the winning bidder time, but the financial outlay would be virtually nil. It is a similar story with the chrome and tinted glass, while the underside shots suggest there are no significant floor or frame issues. The crowning glory of this exterior for me is the eight-lug wheels. American car manufacturers produced some outstanding wheels during the 1960s, but the eight-lugs remain my favorite. With the panels shining and the wheels polished, this Pontiac could look stunning without spending a fortune.

Pontiac has long been acknowledged as the performance arm of the General Motors empire during the 1960s, with the GTO as its masterpiece. However, it was not the only weapon in the company’s armory. This Bonneville features a 389ci V8 that churned out 303hp and 430 ft/lbs of torque in its prime. The original owner added a three-speed automatic transmission and power assistance for the steering and brakes to emphasize the luxury leanings. The Bonneville tips the scales at 4,110 lbs, but the V8 could propel it through the ¼-mile in 17.1 seconds on its way to 129mph. It may not have been a muscle car, but the Bonneville was also no pushover against its natural competition. The vehicle requires revival, but the process shouldn’t be complex. The mechanical components are bulletproof, and parts are easy to find and relatively cheap. Returning this classic to its rightful place on our roads might not take much effort.

This Bonneville’s interior sends mixed signals, but it is very serviceable for a driver-grade vehicle. The front seat has some rips and splits, making a replacement cover seem the obvious choice. The tops of the door trims show some slight UV damage, but the remaining upholstered surfaces are excellent. The back seat is spotless, meaning a slipcover over the front seat could hide the worst damage while making the interior very presentable. The dash and pad are excellent, as is the beautiful wheel. Interiors from this era always appeal to me because manufacturers placed some effort into their design and construction. This car’s dash is a metal sculpture with stunning paint and bright trim highlights. Climb aboard a modern vehicle, and you are confronted by a slab of molded plastic that is usually Gray and uninspiring. This Pontiac features some nice factory options and remains unmolested. The factory AM radio occupies its rightful spot in the dash and features the optional rear speaker. The front seat is a six-way power unit, and the occupants are kept cool by air conditioning.

I will be fascinated to learn the plans the winning bidder in this auction will have because I think they have many options with this beauty. It would undoubtedly look stunning following a restoration, although it looks like the ideal candidate for preservation. It features some desirable options, increasing its appeal to Pontiac enthusiasts. If you count yourself among that group, maybe the time is right for you to preserve a classic from an iconic and extinct brand. The final result should justify the effort. What do you say?

• Location: Phoenix, Arizona
• Mileage: 5,488 Shown, TMU
• Engine: 389 cui V8
• Transmission: Automatic
• VIN: 863S49962
• Title Status: Clean

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