@@thomastoler2397 It is a fact that no car I ever owned is so incredibly attractive for nearly everyone. I met a guy with a pristine Maserati and he said my car was more fascinating than his car.
I’ve always loved Pontiacs! My Grandpa raised me and he worked for Pontiac Motors for 39 years. They were such beautiful and amazing cars, I remember how his heart broke when he found out that GM canceled the Pontiac brand. RIP Grandpa! Thanks for giving me my love of classic Pontiacs!
My dad's first new car was a 1965 Catalina two door in teal. It was a two door to keep us kids from opening the nonexistent rear doors and falling out from the back seat. No child door locks in those days. Something Adam doesn't mention is the high beam indicator on the dash. We used to beg my dad to turn on the high beams so we could see the red indian head indicator light up! And of course, the high beam switch was foot operated on the left side of the floorboard.
Lol, my dad had a '65 Starchief (four door in midnight blue with a white roof) when I was a kid. The Indian head indicator light was, indeed, the coolest thing ever!
@michaeloliver2337 : Funny you mention your parents having a 2 door so you couldn't open a door and fall out, One time when I was 7, we were going to grandma's house in my dad's 1969 LTD 4 door, I was a little too excited I guess and as my dad was making the last turn before the driveway, right in the middle of the turn, a tire hit a pothole and since my hand was already holding the door handle, as the car jerked going over the pothole, the door opened and out I went!!! I bounced and slid a little as my dad instantly stopped the car, leaped from it, and scooped me up in the blink of an eye. I luckily was uninjured except for a scrap on my right shoulder, which did not affect me playing and roughhousing one bit with my friends in grandma's neighborhood !! Much to my parents' relief, I never touched a door handle ever again if the car was moving after that !!! 😂😂😂
Wait till you have the chance to ride in one: I tell you you are hooked even more. The only downside is that you cannot admire the outside design of the Bonneville while driving it! You must stop on a parking lot and admire your own car. At least you have the the beauty of the interior while driving it.
Adam this has got to be one of the most beautiful cars I’ve ever seen on your channel so far. It’s a shame that styling like this has been removed from our sight. Cars now all look a like. This was when manufacturers took pride in their work. This is a rolling piece of art.
(@Czechmate, my surname is the Czech word for smooth) Yup. I was left a hondo acord by a relative, I often leave a store and it takes me awhile to find it in the parking lot, it looks like everything else nowadays, never have that problem when you drive a Pontiac. Passion, that's what's lacking. These toyoda & hondos don't inspire s**t. I looked forward to going out and looking at my '80 Trans Am or driving it, every time.
@@J.W.W.not so sure about the reliability. I've seen so many horror stories when it comes to newer models. Plus when it comes to reliability one does have to factor in that anyone with even a little mechanical ability can fix most anything on these older cars themselves. If this car quits you on the road it will at least 90% of the time either be a fire, fuel or charging issue all of which are easy fixes with just a few tools and minimal mechanical ability.
@@J.W.W.I’m sorry to say that I agree. I drove a 2005 Lincoln Aviator for 15 years with only one mechanical issue which was in the front wheel joints. Otherwise, it was completely trouble free, and I cannot imagine being able to say that about ANY pre-1990 automobile! And while I like all the fantastic designs that that changed every couple of years (man, I remember so well, the excitement I had every October, waiting to see the new styles), I am thankful that very gradual yearly changes became the trend.
I was 14 in 1966 when my Dad bought a new 4-dr Bonneville hardtop just like this one. The grill and taillights were revised but otherwise identical. It rode smooth and had great pickup. Was one of the first cars I drove when I got my license three years later.
I love this car! 65 GP with the grill lights and full width tail treatment is one of my favorite Pontiac’s and favorite cars as well. We were lucky to have lived in this time!
Yes we were lucky, and thought those times would last forever - and remember the excitement when the new models came out every September/October? My dad would drive me to all the dealerships (GM Ford Chrysler) so I could get the brochures and I would go home and "study" them for hours - was like a carnival atmosphere! Now we have look alike "pods" that look the same for 5-10years! And yes, the '65 Pontiac GP was a real looker!
I was kind of shocked to hear that the 421 in that car only had a single exhaust!? I'd bet that duals would really let that engine breathe! Beautiful car, and I love the color!
Period exhausts were a bit choked. Detroit sometimes went 2 1/4" when 2 1/2" would have been better - I suspect cams drove those decisions. If I had a car like this... I would probably keep it single, and maybe size up from original specs after the crossover merge.
You are completely correct. The plus for the single exhaust is it is much quieter for an older person to enjoy the car as smooth, powerful, and quiet. The negative side of the dual exhaust system is the heat riser on the RH exhaust manifold causes the RH muffler and RH tail pipe and resonator to rust out quite frequently because the heat riser does not allow the RH side to heat up on short trips allowing moisture to build up and rusting out the RH muffler, tail pipe and resonator. Also, the Dual Exhaust option is around a $30.00 option extra.
I live in London 🇬🇧 it’s just beautiful. Sadly we hardly ever see this type of US car here. But yes, I’d like one very much. Always enjoy your channel.
Sadly, we hardly see them here in the US anymore, either. A plethora of generic small SUVs that are really just hatchbacks with a few extra inches of ground clearance and a mild AWD system.
My dad bought a 66 Bonneville station wagon with power steering and brakes, radio, and 421 with 3 deuce carbs. He was a gearhead ex-pontiac mechanic turned nasa engineer, working at White Sands missile range. We lived in El Paso up on mt Franklin, and mom always complained about not being able to drive up the mountain with power. Dad knew the answer and was, in fact, waiting for the cue. In high school, later in Houston, my friends would bet money, lifting the hood when my sister's drove it to school, proving it had all that chrome under the hood. I never got to drive it, but at Texas state parks, as I received my license after he traded it in for a 74 pontiac grandville wagon. This one had more options than others because it was originally ordered for Ma Gay of Gay pontiac in Dickinson, Texas. Don Gay's mom. She chose, at the last minute, to get a coupe. Thanks!
First car I can remember was our ‘63 Catalina Safari 9-passenger wagon that my dad had ordered with a 421-4 barrel carburetor. Playing with the ashtray in the rear seat door handle is a clear memory of mine as a toddler. As my mother experienced dementia towards the end of her life, she still would talk about how much she loved that car. Those mid 60’s Pontiacs are gorgeous.
Adam, I’m in love with this car about as much as you are. I hope to get one someday. Quick story: When I was about 8 or 9 years old my dad bought a used 1964 Pontiac Bonneville wagon, which was the most luxurious and most comfortable car we’d ever had. The only complaint I ever heard from him about it was having to pay for premium fuel to fill the gas tank. One evening he took me for a ride and let me sit in the front seat for the first time. When we got on the highway he said he had to blow it out and accelerated to 90 mph without a shake or shimmy in the whole car! It was sweet!
Oh man, did this ever bring back my childhood! My grandparents (who raised me btw) had a 1966 Catalina 4door in this EXACT same color, dark purple interior, stacked headlights, vinyl roof, no idea what engine but big, fast, smooth even tho it wasn’t a GTO
I was 14 years old in spring 1966, and my dad took me car shopping. The only cars we looked at, were the Pontiac, the Impala, and the Ford LTD. For whatever reason, he chose the LTD, and I loved it. When i turned 16, I drove that car for 6 months, and totalled it. Damn.
Adam, this is my favorite car in your fleet. It's just stunningly beautiful. The styling and colour scheme does this car justice. This is nicer than a Cadillac and with real wood trim on the dash. 🇨🇦
What a beautiful car! My parents had a ‘62 back in 1962. It was a 4 door, 389, in bamboo cream. I was only 4 yrs old at the time but I remember it well. My older brothers said my dad used to drive it fast…😂. A vivid memory was me, playing with the power antenna, when my mom drove (my dad not in the car, obviously 😅). I would sit on the edge of the front seat and hang on to the passenger assist bar on the dash. It did have the pull-out trunk utility light. I also remember neighbors and friends being impressed with the car when my dad first brought it home. The car was passed down to my brother when he went to college in 1966.
I loved that Pontiac. My grandfather had that same year Bonneville in Navy Blue. He bought it with an AM radio. I remember as a kid him pouring the STP can in after an oil change. He would go on to trade it in on a new 69 Bonniville. My Dad would buy a new 67 Bonneville 3-row station wagon loaded.
As of last summer I had 7 65-66 Pontiacs. Loved them all! By the way, I had the exact color combo 8 lug Grand Prix from that MT cover. 40k original miles. Was a real cruiser!
I’m a fan of the stacked headlight era in general . The Cadillac, Pontiac, Ford, etc. all had vehicles with stacked headlights. I think it was one of my favorite eras of car design
I also loved the "stacked headlight" era, but the '65 Pontiac stacked headlights were particularly well done. The '67-'68 Cadillac "forward leaning" stacked headlights were nice also.
@@TomSnyder-gx5ru I went to a car show yesterday. I saw several Fords from the stacked headlight era. Nice vehicles. I’m not normally a Pontiac fan. I came of age when they had the oversized beaks. But this is a beautiful car.
The 60's Pontiacs were the most desirable cars to own. They were very stylish, very comfortable, and lots of power. Thats a full house hand. The G.T.O. and Bonnevilles were my favorites. The 2 door Catilina 2+2 was nice...a little shorter wheelbase compared to Bonneville. Thank you Adam for this nostalgia video. You had me day dreaming for close to 20 minutes.
I will go a step further and say every car looked great in 1965! It's like a design corner was turned, all of the Space kitsch left behind, new clean lines in its place! (Not that I don't love all the kitsch as well!)
100% agree. My Mom had a friend who was one of the original 4 head engineers at BART (Bay area rapid transit). Really smart guy. He bought a new 1965 Bonny-2 door, silver blue. He explained to me just how perfect the car was. I was 7 but I still remember it. And it stayed with me as I had many Pontiacs. Anyway the real wood, chrome etc. Wonderful video! Thanks for making it.
Absolutely beautiful car! I am a Pontiac guy, since 1969. I actually started with my first one, a 1955 Star Chief Catalina 2-door hardtop, Firegold copper and cream beige, I bought at age 19 in October 1966 in my first year of college to save money. I paid $300. for it, and drove it until summer 1967. My second Pontiac was a 1960 Bonneville convertible in metallic burgundy with the 8-lug rims, all original 389 V8 with 4-barrel carb. Loved that car! Next was a 1962 Bonneville convertible in white with 3-tone blue-white-silver interior. Ditto! Loved that one too! Absolutely fine GM design and engineering. I love the Pontiacs of 1957, skip 1958, then 1959 to 1970. John Z. DeLorean years. Designed mostly by Jack Humbert, Bill Mitchell, and Bill Porter, supervised by JZD. I love the Bonneville, Grand Prix, LeMans, GTO, and Firebirds. My daily driver now is a 2002 Firebird with the 3800 Series II V-6 with 5-speed stick shift. A real American sports car with dream car European design, like a Corvette in a Camaro body shell.
I’d love to hear you compare/contrast the ‘60 Bonneville, with the ‘62, as far as ride and handling characteristics. I’m glad you were able to experience those fine cars. Having been born in 1960, I was much too young to have owned one, but I did grow up appreciating them, and their beautiful, striking styling. However , because no one else except Cadillac stacked their headlights, I used to think every ‘65/‘66 Pontiac we encountered on the road, was a Cadillac. My father bought a ‘75 Catalina new, and it was the 1st car we had that had air conditioning; boy, what a difference that made in travel comfort! It was a fine car, but seriously underpowered. I even started turning off the a/c when I needed to pass a car. It nearly caused me to have a head-on collision once because I misjudged the passing distance needed to beat an oncoming vehicle. I was accustomed to my ‘71 Malibu thinking that since this was a large Pontiac, it surely had more power…WRONG. The smog control, and the lower octane fuel requirements had choked it to virtual anemic power. It was a nice family cruiser that Dad kept for over 30 years…it was like a member of the family!
Just remember as a kid getting to ride in cars like this from family members and friends and how it evoked excitement and adventure, because there were so many evocative cars coming out back then.
As a little boy of four in 1965, I was mesmerized by the beauty and flawless styling of the 1965 Pontiacs. Our next door neighbors bought a silver blue, 1965 Bonneville. I rode in it a whole lot. Perfection even today.
Grandad had a ‘65 Catalina, and Grandma had a ‘71 Bonneville. I always thought the ‘65 was a VERY nice car, but they seem to look better to me as every year goes by. That styling is about as perfect as it gets.
Adam always circles back to this ‘65 Bonneville, and for good reason. The styling is peerless for the era, with comfort and performance. Total reliability was icing on the cake. It is indeed the perfect car.
out of all your cars you have shown, this is by far the sweetest ride. always loved them as a kid because my grandpa had a burgundy and black 67 Tempest. Because of that car I knew what to look for to find a Pontiac in the wild. The pointy nose, stacked head lights. They are so cool. Little sad side note that made me cry when he traded it in for a '79 Chrysler LeBaron in baby blue at the hight of the company falling apart. If I was only much older and had money at the time I sure would have tried to buy the Tempest for sure. it had only 27k miles on it with less rust than you would imagine.
I completely agree about the styling, absolute style and balance, beautiful. I thought I liked the 66 model better but now that you have showcased the 65, I'm not so sure. Thanks for showing us mere mortals such a dream car. 😊👍
My grandfather had a new 1965 Bonneville two door coupe; A/C and power antenna, manual windows. Paid about $3800 new. My parents borrowed it and drove cross country and back in 1968. Great car. Sadly, it was stolen in 1971. I’d still like to own one if I find the right one.
I just started watching this episode, and can already say, that yes....The '65 B body is the best looking car ever. What a gorgeous car!!! and a 421??? WOW! I really really want one.
I Love the “over-under” headlight arrangement. Some can argue all day about old vs new cars but every car pre- 74 had its own personality. Years ago you could drive behind a vehicle from afar and know make, model, style, etc.
The best of the best!!!! I love yours, it’s one of the most beautiful low mile examples!!!!! I enjoyed getting to see your collection first hand, especially this one particular car!!!!!
Adam, you're right about the 65 Pontiacs "having not been topped ever before or since," BUT the Yugo does pull a very close second....... LOL Thanks for helping to keep automotive history alive and kicking.
Beautiful car. My brother's best friend bought a new GP in '65. He ordered it with a 4 speed. I was just a kid, and he took me for a ride around the block in it. I was in awe. Such a cool car, so well styled.
Guy worked with had one he ordered a brand new out of four-speed in it too he loved that car last time I saw him was 2012 he still had the car beautiful
Absolutely correct, I always believed that the 1965 Pontiac Bonneville was the most beautifully designed vehicle ever. It is my dream to own one someday. You are a lucky man there, Adam!
My father was looking at one of these in the late 60's or early 70's. Gold with a white interior. Made a major impression on me. I was around 10 years old.
Beautiful indeed. I remember as a kid in the 60's, exiting the freeway in the family car and while going over the overpass, spotting a Pontiac front end back down on the freeway. I thought it was mighty cool back then. In the mid 70's, a friend had a 66 Catalina. It had the "reverberation" radio feature.
Summer of '67 my best friend's father was getting some service done on his Caddy and got one of these as a loaner... so Saturday my friend borrowed it and we went to the drive-in. We had six on the seats and snuck in another five in the trunk. Can't remember what we saw but we got in cheap.
I've owned a few late 90s, early 2000's Grand Prix's and a GTP, and recently purchased my first Bonneville. While it's an 03 and not supercharged, I still love it. However, I certainly wouldn't mind having a beautiful classic Bonneville like yours. Thank you for sharing.
My parents had a 1965 Grand Prix and it had a sticker on it stating motor trend car of the year. They drove that car for 11 years then gave it to a relative that drove it for 10 more years. Me and my brother learned how to drive in that car. And took our drivers test in that car. I wish we kept it.
Had the 1965 Bonnie convertible with the 421 engine. And, yes, the ''side profile'' was beautiful. Dark green metallic. Wonderful highway car. Loved it!
Love this car, the detail is perfect everywhere you look! What makes this particular car fantastic is this paint color with the white interior +++++ having that 421. Finally had good automatic transmissions in 1965. Never get tired on stories about this car.
Absolutely stunning classic. Wow! It is amazing. With the cookie-cutter transportation pods that surround us today, this '65 Bonneville seems like it was designed and built by an entirely different species. Thanks for the tour.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful Bonneville, Adam. 1965 was not only peak Pontiac - but also peak General Motors in terms of design and engineering for them. Good stuff!
I was 8 years old when the 65 Bonneville was produced and at the time, it was my favorite car and it still is one of my favorites. Every time I see one of Adam's videos detailing one of these 60's era Pontiacs I think about buying one.
That Bonneville is a gem. I wish I owned it. I like the walnut trim inside also. I also like the exterior Coke bottle style. The exterior burgundy color is perfect also. I also like Pontiac's catch phrase, WE BUILD EXCITEMENT.
In grade school back in 1966 and friend of mines father bought a brand new 66' Bonny. Beautiful car. I remember going by his house after school to look at it.
We had a green Pontiac Silverstreak with the swivel mounted oil filled compass on the windshield. The slant 6 was perfect for flooded roads and it went on many a deer hunt on rough roads. Beautiful car.
I never thought years ago, let alone now, that the 65 Pontiac Laurentian I drove as a teen in the early 80s would be so well regarded some day from so many perspectives. And you are correct in your assessments of these 65s. The Ontario winters with salt did do it in eventually, but my father would periodically tell me how beautiful and respected it was as a car in its early days. Of course as a naive teenager, I laughed it off and said whatever. With age comes wisdom and appreciation. Thank you Adam for your nostalgic education and montages of these gorgeous cars. Btw...The Laurentian had those very same hub caps. Very cool!
To put it gently, "The Best Car Ever Made" is a vast overstatement. Most cars today would run circles around the 1965 Bonneville in performance and reliability. I should know; I had a 1966 "Goat." I love it for its looks, speed, and Detroit sound. Now, for that sound, you would be spot on. There is nothing like it. Nothing. .
this car deserves an owner like you who appreciates the artistry and beauty of it.
Adam is a one man car show
A spot-on observation
@@thomastoler2397 It is a fact that no car I ever owned is so incredibly attractive for nearly everyone. I met a guy with a pristine Maserati and he said my car was more fascinating than his car.
I’ve always loved Pontiacs! My Grandpa raised me and he worked for Pontiac Motors for 39 years. They were such beautiful and amazing cars, I remember how his heart broke when he found out that GM canceled the Pontiac brand. RIP Grandpa! Thanks for giving me my love of classic Pontiacs!
My dad's first new car was a 1965 Catalina two door in teal. It was a two door to keep us kids from opening the nonexistent rear doors and falling out from the back seat. No child door locks in those days. Something Adam doesn't mention is the high beam indicator on the dash. We used to beg my dad to turn on the high beams so we could see the red indian head indicator light up! And of course, the high beam switch was foot operated on the left side of the floorboard.
Lol, my dad had a '65 Starchief (four door in midnight blue with a white roof) when I was a kid. The Indian head indicator light was, indeed, the coolest thing ever!
@michaeloliver2337 :
Funny you mention your parents having a 2 door so you couldn't open a door and fall out, One time when I was 7, we were going to grandma's house in my dad's 1969 LTD 4 door, I was a little too excited I guess and as my dad was making the last turn before the driveway, right in the middle of the turn, a tire hit a pothole and since my hand was already holding the door handle, as the car jerked going over the pothole, the door opened and out I went!!! I bounced and slid a little as my dad instantly stopped the car, leaped from it, and scooped me up in the blink of an eye. I luckily was uninjured except for a scrap on my right shoulder, which did not affect me playing and roughhousing one bit with my friends in grandma's neighborhood !!
Much to my parents' relief, I never touched a door handle ever again if the car was moving after that !!! 😂😂😂
That's funny, my dad bought a 1966 Pontiac Parisienne with 2 doors so that we didn't jump out and go rolling down the highway
Because of you and your reviews I have come to appreciate Pontiacs of that era much more than I used to.
Wait till you have the chance to ride in one: I tell you you are hooked even more. The only downside is that you cannot admire the outside design of the Bonneville while driving it!
You must stop on a parking lot and admire your own car. At least you have the the beauty of the interior while driving it.
Adam this has got to be one of the most beautiful cars I’ve ever seen on your channel so far. It’s a shame that styling like this has been removed from our sight. Cars now all look a like. This was when manufacturers took pride in their work. This is a rolling piece of art.
Everything got worse, not just the cars or styling of cars. Just look at modern architecture and the quality of materials.
Except new cars last FAR longer with more reliability and better fuel mileage and better driving dynamics and safety than these beauties
(@Czechmate, my surname is the Czech word for smooth) Yup. I was left a hondo acord by a relative, I often leave a store and it takes me awhile to find it in the parking lot, it looks like everything else nowadays, never have that problem when you drive a Pontiac. Passion, that's what's lacking. These toyoda & hondos don't inspire s**t. I looked forward to going out and looking at my '80 Trans Am or driving it, every time.
@@J.W.W.not so sure about the reliability. I've seen so many horror stories when it comes to newer models. Plus when it comes to reliability one does have to factor in that anyone with even a little mechanical ability can fix most anything on these older cars themselves. If this car quits you on the road it will at least 90% of the time either be a fire, fuel or charging issue all of which are easy fixes with just a few tools and minimal mechanical ability.
@@J.W.W.I’m sorry to say that I agree. I drove a 2005 Lincoln Aviator for 15 years with only one mechanical issue which was in the front wheel joints. Otherwise, it was completely trouble free, and I cannot imagine being able to say that about ANY pre-1990 automobile! And while I like all the fantastic designs that that changed every couple of years (man, I remember so well, the excitement I had every October, waiting to see the new styles), I am thankful that very gradual yearly changes became the trend.
Reminds me of I Dream of Jeannie , with Maj Nelson driving a Bonneville later a GTO and the convertible 400 Firebird Capt Healey drove.
Yes he always had the Pontiacs! Love watching the old shows the shows were wholesome and the cars were spectacular!
Brett Butler, the star of the sitcom Grace Under Fire, also drove one on the show. It was a blue one exactly like my Moms!
Lots of good old cars in IDOJ ua-cam.com/video/x7blDeMgnZo/v-deo.html
I was 14 in 1966 when my Dad bought a new 4-dr Bonneville hardtop just like this one. The grill and taillights were revised but otherwise identical. It rode smooth and had great pickup. Was one of the first cars I drove when I got my license three years later.
Pontiac styling of the sixties was beautiful! I love that color too.
I had a 1966 Bonneville 389 and it was just a fantastic.
I love this car! 65 GP with the grill lights and full width tail treatment is one of my favorite Pontiac’s and favorite cars as well. We were lucky to have lived in this time!
Yes we were lucky, and thought those times would last forever - and remember the excitement when the new models came out every September/October? My dad would drive me to all the dealerships (GM Ford Chrysler) so I could get the brochures and I would go home and "study" them for hours - was like a carnival atmosphere! Now we have look alike "pods" that look the same for 5-10years! And yes, the '65 Pontiac GP was a real looker!
Definitely a beauty. Pontiac shouldn't have been axed. The size of those rear quarter panels is astounding!
Maybe because they started making badge engineered ugly cars
@@fensterlips Agreed, it was just a Chevy after 1981.
My dad had a 65 convertible.What a beautiful car
We had a new one of these when I was a kid. White out, white and red inside with a black convertible top. It was gorgeous. ❤
I was kind of shocked to hear that the 421 in that car only had a single exhaust!? I'd bet that duals would really let that engine breathe! Beautiful car, and I love the color!
Period exhausts were a bit choked. Detroit sometimes went 2 1/4" when 2 1/2" would have been better - I suspect cams drove those decisions. If I had a car like this... I would probably keep it single, and maybe size up from original specs after the crossover merge.
You are completely correct. The plus for the single exhaust is it is much quieter for an older person to enjoy the car as smooth, powerful, and quiet. The negative side of the dual exhaust system is the heat riser on the RH exhaust manifold causes the RH muffler and RH tail pipe and resonator to rust out quite frequently because the heat riser does not allow the RH side to heat up on short trips allowing moisture to build up and rusting out the RH muffler, tail pipe and resonator. Also, the Dual Exhaust option is around a $30.00 option extra.
Stacked headlights were the best look especially on the GTO
I live in London 🇬🇧 it’s just beautiful. Sadly we hardly ever see this type of US car here. But yes, I’d like one very much. Always enjoy your channel.
I wish classic american cars were more prevalent outside of the us. Us americans dont realize these cars will be rare some day and love to ruin them
Sadly, we hardly see them here in the US anymore, either. A plethora of generic small SUVs that are really just hatchbacks with a few extra inches of ground clearance and a mild AWD system.
I cannot imagine driving London’s streets with this behemoth. 😉😅
Cheers mate from Pennsylvania, USA!
@@itsyaboi525That's a stupid, ignorant comment man.
My dad bought a 66 Bonneville station wagon with power steering and brakes, radio, and 421 with 3 deuce carbs. He was a gearhead ex-pontiac mechanic turned nasa engineer, working at White Sands missile range. We lived in El Paso up on mt Franklin, and mom always complained about not being able to drive up the mountain with power. Dad knew the answer and was, in fact, waiting for the cue.
In high school, later in Houston, my friends would bet money, lifting the hood when my sister's drove it to school, proving it had all that chrome under the hood.
I never got to drive it, but at Texas state parks, as I received my license after he traded it in for a 74 pontiac grandville wagon. This one had more options than others because it was originally ordered for Ma Gay of Gay pontiac in Dickinson, Texas. Don Gay's mom. She chose, at the last minute, to get a coupe. Thanks!
To see the lucite steering wheel in that condition is a real treat.
What a gorgeous car. Love your work, and bringing to light how great these old domestic cars really were.
First car I can remember was our ‘63 Catalina Safari 9-passenger wagon that my dad had ordered with a 421-4 barrel carburetor. Playing with the ashtray in the rear seat door handle is a clear memory of mine as a toddler. As my mother experienced dementia towards the end of her life, she still would talk about how much she loved that car. Those mid 60’s Pontiacs are gorgeous.
Adam, I’m in love with this car about as much as you are. I hope to get one someday.
Quick story: When I was about 8 or 9 years old my dad bought a used 1964 Pontiac Bonneville wagon, which was the most luxurious and most comfortable car we’d ever had. The only complaint I ever heard from him about it was having to pay for premium fuel to fill the gas tank. One evening he took me for a ride and let me sit in the front seat for the first time. When we got on the highway he said he had to blow it out and accelerated to 90 mph without a shake or shimmy in the whole car! It was sweet!
Oh man, did this ever bring back my childhood! My grandparents (who raised me btw) had a 1966 Catalina 4door in this EXACT same color, dark purple interior, stacked headlights, vinyl roof, no idea what engine but big, fast, smooth even tho it wasn’t a GTO
I was 14 years old in spring 1966, and my dad took me car shopping. The only cars we looked at, were the Pontiac, the Impala, and the Ford LTD. For whatever reason, he chose the LTD, and I loved it. When i turned 16, I drove that car for 6 months, and totalled it. Damn.
Adam, this is my favorite car in your fleet. It's just stunningly beautiful. The styling and colour scheme does this car justice. This is nicer than a Cadillac and with real wood trim on the dash. 🇨🇦
What a beautiful car! My parents had a ‘62 back in 1962. It was a 4 door, 389, in bamboo cream. I was only 4 yrs old at the time but I remember it well. My older brothers said my dad used to drive it fast…😂. A vivid memory was me, playing with the power antenna, when my mom drove (my dad not in the car, obviously 😅). I would sit on the edge of the front seat and hang on to the passenger assist bar on the dash. It did have the pull-out trunk utility light. I also remember neighbors and friends being impressed with the car when my dad first brought it home. The car was passed down to my brother when he went to college in 1966.
I loved that Pontiac. My grandfather had that same year Bonneville in Navy Blue. He bought it with an AM radio. I remember as a kid him pouring the STP can in after an oil change. He would go on to trade it in on a new 69 Bonniville. My Dad would buy a new 67 Bonneville 3-row station wagon loaded.
Have always loved the old Pontiacs, especially the Bonneville! Just great, great cars!
Absolutely work of art, and performance, John DeLorean.
Beautiful Pontiac, I bought a ‘62 Grand Prix in 1977. Black inside and out. 389,4 speed with a six pack . Love the old American cars.
As of last summer I had 7 65-66 Pontiacs. Loved them all! By the way, I had the exact color combo 8 lug Grand Prix from that MT cover. 40k original miles. Was a real cruiser!
I’m a fan of the stacked headlight era in general . The Cadillac, Pontiac, Ford, etc. all had vehicles with stacked headlights. I think it was one of my favorite eras of car design
I also loved the "stacked headlight" era, but the '65 Pontiac stacked headlights were particularly well done. The '67-'68 Cadillac "forward leaning" stacked headlights were nice also.
@@TomSnyder-gx5ru I went to a car show yesterday. I saw several Fords from the stacked headlight era. Nice vehicles. I’m not normally a Pontiac fan. I came of age when they had the oversized beaks. But this is a beautiful car.
The 2-door Catalina 4-speed in this color with fender skirts lived on my block back in the day. Still my favorite car of all time.
The 60's Pontiacs were the most desirable cars to own. They were very stylish, very comfortable, and lots of power. Thats a full house hand. The G.T.O. and Bonnevilles were my favorites. The 2 door Catilina 2+2 was nice...a little shorter wheelbase compared to Bonneville. Thank you Adam for this nostalgia video. You had me day dreaming for close to 20 minutes.
Wow! This car was LOADED! It’s equipped better than many Cadillacs of that era.
Beautiful car, I have always liked the sixties Pontiac design , I have owned a 1977 firebird formula loved it.
The Pontiac is absolutely awesome of course. But you have to admit the entire GM lineup for 1965 was pretty spectacular!
I will go a step further and say every car looked great in 1965! It's like a design corner was turned, all of the Space kitsch left behind, new clean lines in its place! (Not that I don't love all the kitsch as well!)
100% agree. My Mom had a friend who was one of the original 4 head engineers at BART (Bay area rapid transit). Really smart guy. He bought a new 1965 Bonny-2 door, silver blue. He explained to me just how perfect the car was. I was 7 but I still remember it. And it stayed with me as I had many Pontiacs. Anyway the real wood, chrome etc. Wonderful video! Thanks for making it.
Rear quarter panels are huge. Stunningly beautiful car.
I had one just like this one same color and all except mine was a 2+2 two door loved it and was fast as hell 421 v8
This car is so beautiful! Thank you for sharing and preserving history.
Absolutely beautiful car! I am a Pontiac guy, since 1969. I actually started with my first one, a 1955 Star Chief Catalina 2-door hardtop, Firegold copper and cream beige, I bought at age 19 in October 1966 in my first year of college to save money. I paid $300. for it, and drove it until summer 1967. My second Pontiac was a 1960 Bonneville convertible in metallic burgundy with the 8-lug rims, all original 389 V8 with 4-barrel carb. Loved that car! Next was a 1962 Bonneville convertible in white with 3-tone blue-white-silver interior. Ditto! Loved that one too! Absolutely fine GM design and engineering. I love the Pontiacs of 1957, skip 1958, then 1959 to 1970. John Z. DeLorean years. Designed mostly by Jack Humbert, Bill Mitchell, and Bill Porter, supervised by JZD. I love the Bonneville, Grand Prix, LeMans, GTO, and Firebirds.
My daily driver now is a 2002 Firebird with the 3800 Series II V-6 with 5-speed stick shift. A real American sports car with dream car European design, like a Corvette in a Camaro body shell.
I’d love to hear you compare/contrast the ‘60 Bonneville, with the ‘62, as far as ride and handling characteristics. I’m glad you were able to experience those fine cars. Having been born in 1960, I was much too young to have owned one, but I did grow up appreciating them, and their beautiful, striking styling. However , because no one else except Cadillac stacked their headlights, I used to think every ‘65/‘66 Pontiac we encountered on the road, was a Cadillac. My father bought a ‘75 Catalina new, and it was the 1st car we had that had air conditioning; boy, what a difference that made in travel comfort! It was a fine car, but seriously underpowered. I even started turning off the a/c when I needed to pass a car. It nearly caused me to have a head-on collision once because I misjudged the passing distance needed to beat an oncoming vehicle. I was accustomed to my ‘71 Malibu thinking that since this was a large Pontiac, it surely had more power…WRONG. The smog control, and the lower octane fuel requirements had choked it to virtual anemic power. It was a nice family cruiser that Dad kept for over 30 years…it was like a member of the family!
When I was a kid we had a 1955 Olds Rocket 88 2 door H/T.
YES it is....pure Pontiac. Quality. Complete attention to detailed grace, styling, performance; top notch.
Just remember as a kid getting to ride in cars like this from family members and friends and how it evoked excitement and adventure, because there were so many evocative cars coming out back then.
That really is a truly stunning car.
As a little boy of four in 1965, I was mesmerized by the beauty and flawless styling of the 1965 Pontiacs. Our next door neighbors bought a silver blue, 1965 Bonneville. I rode in it a whole lot. Perfection even today.
Grandad had a ‘65 Catalina, and Grandma had a ‘71 Bonneville. I always thought the ‘65 was a VERY nice car, but they seem to look better to me as every year goes by. That styling is about as perfect as it gets.
Adam never gets tiring of showing off this Pontiac. And can you blame him?
NO!
Adam always circles back to this ‘65 Bonneville, and for good reason. The styling is peerless for the era, with comfort and performance. Total reliability was icing on the cake. It is indeed the perfect car.
out of all your cars you have shown, this is by far the sweetest ride. always loved them as a kid because my grandpa had a burgundy and black 67 Tempest. Because of that car I knew what to look for to find a Pontiac in the wild. The pointy nose, stacked head lights. They are so cool. Little sad side note that made me cry when he traded it in for a '79 Chrysler LeBaron in baby blue at the hight of the company falling apart. If I was only much older and had money at the time I sure would have tried to buy the Tempest for sure. it had only 27k miles on it with less rust than you would imagine.
I completely agree about the styling, absolute style and balance, beautiful. I thought I liked the 66 model better but now that you have showcased the 65, I'm not so sure. Thanks for showing us mere mortals such a dream car. 😊👍
My grandfather had a new 1965 Bonneville two door coupe; A/C and power antenna, manual windows. Paid about $3800 new. My parents borrowed it and drove cross country and back in 1968. Great car. Sadly, it was stolen in 1971.
I’d still like to own one if I find the right one.
Had a Catalina when I was younger 389, 4 speed. Beast of a car
I just started watching this episode, and can already say, that yes....The '65 B body is the best looking car ever. What a gorgeous car!!! and a 421??? WOW! I really really want one.
That car is a total knockout! Thanks for the feature.
Those Pontiacs were EXCELLENT MACHINES!!!!!!!!
Mom had a 1966 2+2 convertible. Pretty sure it had the 421 yellow with a black top and interior. Great memories!
Can we stop and just appreciate that colour? Chef’s kiss…
Love the stacked headlights
I Love the “over-under” headlight arrangement.
Some can argue all day about old vs new cars but every car pre- 74 had its own personality.
Years ago you could drive behind a vehicle from afar and know make, model, style, etc.
The best of the best!!!! I love yours, it’s one of the most beautiful low mile examples!!!!! I enjoyed getting to see your collection first hand, especially this one particular car!!!!!
I’m jealous! 😉
I love all your Pontiacs, Adam. Even the “hippo on a bar stool” Canadian ‘59. 😉
Adam, you're right about the 65 Pontiacs "having not been topped ever before or since,"
BUT the Yugo does pull a very close second....... LOL
Thanks for helping to keep automotive history alive and kicking.
Beautiful car. My brother's best friend bought a new GP in '65. He ordered it with a 4 speed. I was just a kid, and he took me for a ride around the block in it. I was in awe. Such a cool car, so well styled.
My brother had a ‘65 GP with the 421, 3-deuce, 4 speed. It could run with GTO’s!
Guy worked with had one he ordered a brand new out of four-speed in it too he loved that car last time I saw him was 2012 he still had the car beautiful
Love It! Favorite Pontiacs were from 1961 - 1967 421 was a Hell of a Bonus on this model
Absolutely correct, I always believed that the 1965 Pontiac Bonneville was the most beautifully designed vehicle ever. It is my dream to own one someday. You are a lucky man there, Adam!
My father was looking at one of these in the late 60's or early 70's. Gold with a white interior. Made a major impression on me. I was around 10 years old.
Beautiful indeed. I remember as a kid in the 60's, exiting the freeway in the family car and while going over the overpass, spotting a Pontiac front end back down on the freeway. I thought it was mighty cool back then.
In the mid 70's, a friend had a 66 Catalina. It had the "reverberation" radio feature.
What an absolute gem! Thanks for sharing it with us!
Another stunning exposé of past cars. And your presentation is splendid. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for adding the trunk at the end.
Love that Bonneville.
On Pontiac, the limited slip differential was called Saf-T-Track.
Summer of '67 my best friend's father was getting some service done on his Caddy and got one of these as a loaner... so Saturday my friend borrowed it and we went to the drive-in. We had six on the seats and snuck in another five in the trunk. Can't remember what we saw but we got in cheap.
I've owned a few late 90s, early 2000's Grand Prix's and a GTP, and recently purchased my first Bonneville. While it's an 03 and not supercharged, I still love it.
However, I certainly wouldn't mind having a beautiful classic Bonneville like yours. Thank you for sharing.
My parents had a 1965 Grand Prix and it had a sticker on it stating motor trend car of the year. They drove that car for 11 years then gave it to a relative that drove it for 10 more years. Me and my brother learned how to drive in that car. And took our drivers test in that car. I wish we kept it.
I had a 65 Catalina 2dr post Block with chrome posts. It had the 389 4V and automatic.
Always loved Buick and Olds more. Because of your vids, I might be more a Pontiac guy now.
if you could keep only one car in your collection, I would pick this one. Absolutely beautiful car.
Adam, Please make my perfect, full-size 1965 Pontiac a Safari wagon. That way it will be even perfecter. 🤩
My father had one. It was blue and it was beautiful.
Well done! Glad you were able to snag this beauty. The '65-'68 full size Pontiacs were just awesome in every respect.
Had the 1965 Bonnie convertible with the 421 engine. And, yes, the ''side profile'' was beautiful. Dark green metallic. Wonderful highway car. Loved it!
It is absolutely beautiful. The four door is even more attractive than the coupe. I cried when she saw it had crank windows.
many old cars got crushed when the power windows stopped working.
Love this car, the detail is perfect everywhere you look! What makes this particular car fantastic is this paint color with the white interior +++++ having that 421. Finally had good automatic transmissions in 1965. Never get tired on stories about this car.
I prefer two doors but in this case the four door does not distract from the beauty of this car.
Absolutely stunning classic. Wow!
It is amazing. With the cookie-cutter transportation pods that surround us today, this '65 Bonneville seems like it was designed and built by an entirely different species.
Thanks for the tour.
What a beautiful design! I My neighbor always had a Grand Prix, from the 60’s on. I loved Pontiacs!😊
Thank you for sharing your beautiful Bonneville, Adam. 1965 was not only peak Pontiac - but also peak General Motors in terms of design and engineering for them. Good stuff!
Such a beautiful car! Fantastic!
I was 8 years old when the 65 Bonneville was produced and at the time, it was my favorite car and it still is one of my favorites. Every time I see one of Adam's videos detailing one of these 60's era Pontiacs I think about buying one.
Beautiful car! Beautiful colour!🌹
That Bonneville is a gem. I wish I owned it. I like the walnut trim inside also. I also like the exterior Coke bottle style. The exterior burgundy color is perfect also. I also like Pontiac's catch phrase, WE BUILD EXCITEMENT.
In grade school back in 1966 and friend of mines father bought a brand new 66' Bonny. Beautiful car. I remember going by his house after school to look at it.
the pearlescent white vinyl is always a crowd pleaser.
We had a green Pontiac Silverstreak with the swivel mounted oil filled compass on the windshield. The slant 6 was perfect for flooded roads and it went on many a deer hunt on rough roads. Beautiful car.
Beautiful Pontiac.
I think the 65 Bonneville and Grand Prix are Stunning Cars ❤Them.
I never thought years ago, let alone now, that the 65 Pontiac Laurentian I drove as a teen in the early 80s would be so well regarded some day from so many perspectives. And you are correct in your assessments of these 65s. The Ontario winters with salt did do it in eventually, but my father would periodically tell me how beautiful and respected it was as a car in its early days. Of course as a naive teenager, I laughed it off and said whatever. With age comes wisdom and appreciation. Thank you Adam for your nostalgic education and montages of these gorgeous cars. Btw...The Laurentian had those very same hub caps. Very cool!
This is a beautiful car Adam.
To put it gently, "The Best Car Ever Made" is a vast overstatement. Most cars today would run circles around the 1965 Bonneville in performance and reliability. I should know; I had a 1966 "Goat." I love it for its looks, speed, and Detroit sound. Now, for that sound, you would be spot on. There is nothing like it. Nothing. .
After the 57 Bonneville, the 65 is my next favorite GN car. Thanks for showing it off.
No planned obsolescence there! Beautiful car and well built too! I agree. Might be the best car ever produced.