Wednesday, June 2, 2010

1965 Pontiac Catalina 2+2 Sport Coupe





376 hp, 421 cu. in. V8 engine, three Rochester two-barrel carburetors, Muncie four-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension with unequal-length A-arms and coil springs, live rear axle with trailing arms and coil springs, four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 121"

Despite its 1963 withdrawal from racing, Pontiac adopted a two-pronged performance-car strategy for 1964 with the GTO and the Catalina-based 2+2. More correctly described as a trial introduction, the 2+2 was Pontiac’s first complete full-size performance option and sold 7,998 units in 1964. Pontiac management was sufficiently encouraged to continue it for 1965.

The lengthened 1965 2+2 sported more aggressive styling and handsome “Coke bottle”-inspired lines. A 389 V8 was standard, while three optional 421s ranged from a four-barrel, 338 hp unit to a pair of Tri-Power engines with 356 and 376 hp. A three-speed manual transmission was standard, and a Muncie four-speed and the all-new Turbo Hydra-Matic were optional. Vertical louvers and “2+2” badges adorned the exterior, while bucket seats and heavy-duty underpinnings rounded out the well-integrated package, resulting in one of the best-performing full-size cars ever produced. Brutal acceleration, responsive handling and aggressive marketing drove 2+2 sales to 11,521 units for 1965.

This Montero Red 2+2 was first acquired from its original owner during the 1980s by Brent Jarvis.Jarvis’ Performance Restorations performed a complete restoration during the early 1990s, followed by an appearance on the cover of Pontiac Enthusiast. In 1993, the 2+2 was sold to a New York-based enthusiast, and then in 1998, the current owner repurchased it. Very nicely presented, the 2+2 features a Tri-Power 421 V8, a Hurst-shifted four-speed and a coveted set of eight-lug wheels with integral finned brake drums. Other desirable features include air conditioning, an AM radio, a floor console, power steering, power windows and a Pontiac tachometer. This is a stunning 2+2 that really inspires a true car enthusiast with its classic looks and high performance, capable of challenging most any muscle car.

Source: RMAuctions