No Reserve 1963 Pontiac Bonneville Convertible
The Bonneville was Pontiac’s top-of-the-line auto for 1963, offering a luxurious package in both a 2 and 4-door model plus a station wagon, and these were back from the good old days when droptop availability wasn’t all that uncommon either such as this 1963 Pontiac Bonneville convertible for sale here on eBay. The ragtop proved somewhat popular in the lineup, as Pontiac moved 23,459 of them during this one year alone so the car isn’t exactly rare, but it’s always fun to find one that’s still intact and mostly original. This one’s located in Northridge, California, with the no-reserve auction up to $6,000 so far.
Until recently, the seller says his Pontiac had been parked since 1988, and to this day only has 73k miles on the ticker. We don’t get a complete history of the vehicle, but it’s claimed to be a solid California car with only one small area of rust on the driver’s side fender down below, and fortunately, this doesn’t appear to be a major issue. The Bonneville also seems to be pretty much complete on the outside, and that’s a fine patina the hood’s rocking if you’re into the baked-style finish.
Pontiac’s 389 could be had in both a 2 and 4-barrel configuration for 1963, but a one-year-only dual-quad Super Duty 421 making over 400 horsepower was also a rare option, although they’re uncommon as it added another two-thirds to the price of a base Bonneville. The 389 here is said to be running, but other than that we don’t get very many other details regarding the motor or transmission, but there is a new gas tank underneath along with new brakes.
Inside, the dash pad is a bit on the heavy side for wear and there are also a few cracks in the steering wheel, but the seats are in surprisingly good shape for their age, especially for a convertible, although the owner does mention that the top needs to be replaced. From what I can tell, this one seems like minimal bodywork and a fresh coat of paint could work wonders here, and as long as there aren’t any major drivetrain problems you might have a decent fair-weather weekend cruiser without a great deal of effort. What are your thoughts on this 1963 Pontiac Bonneville convertible?
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Comments
I’m confused. Does the ad not say “comes with a lien”? Please elaborate, “selling by the sea shore”
This is a really cool old ride, partly because of it’s condition, and partly because of it being a convertible. And it’s not a bad thing that it’s a Pontiac, I guess we all have our favorites, but the fact that this isn’t really one of mine, I’d love to put some wrenches to this old gal and cruise her down the strip on the weekends. As nice as the interior is (dash and steering wheel notwithstanding) I might just be tempted to sand the rough spots off the outside, clearcoat that lovely patina, go thru all the mechanicals, and just ride… I’m sure you could spend a king’s ransom on this and turn it into a show stopper, but I don’t feel like that’s really necessary. Why not show it off as the sturdy survivor it is!
It does indeed say “lien” as noted by Uncle Ed. Judging by the quality of the rest of the seller’s writing he may have just mis-spelled “title”.
Note the rare chrome framed bucket seats, and the California black plate. A lot of these also had consoles and power windows. In 1963 this was the social equivalent of a 2023 BMW.
Those chrome framed buckets aren’t really that rare – all GM fullsizers spec’d with buckets at least ’62-’64 had them. It’d be interesting to learn whether those are original to this specific vehicle however; as most who opted for the separate seats also got the console with floor shifter, but I guess back in the 60s you could’ve ordered it anyway you wanted
I believe in California, even when cars go off the road they accrue fees to the state which have to be paid when it is re-registered. Basic car with the bucket seat option, which are the same seats as the SS Chevies. I would be inclined to replace dash pad and steering wheel and ride. I have a 64 Bonneville convertible so I’m good but someone will get a great car and if it leaves California those state fees go away. I don’t believe they do title loans there so I don’t think there is much to worry about there.
Great cruiser, I opt for fresh paint and top if mechanicals are up to par. This would be a fun weekend cruiser.. have a soft spot for pontiacs! back in the day you could order anything you want the factory made. Unlike the cookie cutter cars we get now days..
Cool car > Roy Rogers King of the Cowboys had a 63 Bonneville Conv. as his parade car – long horns in the front – silver dollar saddle as a consul – six guns on the fenders etc. . Val Kilmer ( Tombstone ) fame – a Facebook Friend mentioned he sat in it as a Kid :)
Would the lien apply to PA owner if won?
Saw that car a few years ago when (and may still be) owned by a car collector in Vallejo, CA. Still in great shape but you can’t drive it without a concealed carry permit.
Bought my first new car. 63 Bonneville Convert. Aquamarine 421 H.O. 4 speed
Buckets with console aluminum hubs and drums. No power steering, no A C. ENGINE CAME WITH 3/2 BARRELS NOT DUAL QUADS. LIST PRICE WAS JUST OVER $5000.00 was heavy but could hold its own against Chevy 409–426 hemi blew doors off everything. I was 18 what a rush.
Cousin had one in around ’67/’68. Red Bonnie convertible. His had the 4 bbl and the Gran Prix rims.
Aunt also had the same in bronze.