Full-size Pontiacs received revised styling for 1965. The vertically stacked headlights that were introduced in 1963 remained but were given a distinctive new look. The substantially larger bodies got the "coke-bottle" treatment that was to prove very popular during the sixties.
This 1965 Pontiac Catalina Convertible in Fontaine Blue was subject to a recent full frame-off restoration, this Catalina certainly looks absolutely stunning.
This car was ordered with a 421 cubic inch V8 rather than the standard 389 cubic inch V8 that came standard with the Catalina. This produced 338 horsepower.
Rear view
The restoration involved using NO.S. vinyl to ensure a true, factory fresh interior.
Interior
There are also some other optional extras that were fitted to this car when it was originally built. These include: Soft Ray tinted glass ($43), AM push-button radio ($89), power steering ($97) and power brakes ($43).
Another rarity on this car is the transistorized ignition that was a factory option, ordered when new.
Pontiac produced 18,347 Catalina Convertibles for the 1965 model year at a base price of $3,103.
This car is currently for sale on eBay. (follow the link for even more photos)
Recommended Reading
Pontiac's Greatest Decade 1959-1969 by Paul Zazarine
Covering the 'Wide-Track' era when Pontiac jumped from the middle of the pack to the number 3 spot just behind Chevrolet and Ford.
That’s NOT a 2+2, it’s just a Catalina with a 421. All 2+2’s were bucket seats and had gill’s on the front fenders and 2+2 badging.
Thank you – the article has been corrected.
My best friend’s Dad bought a 65 2+2 Catalina from Tefey Brothers in Jenkintown,Pa in the fall of 65. Maroon with a black vinal top.The engine was a 421 with automatic. I never lost my love for Pontiacs…