1962 Pontiac Grand-Prix

Pontiac introduced the Grand Prix in 1962 as a bold new entry into the growing personal luxury market. Based on the Catalina coupe but featuring sportier styling and upgraded trim, the Grand Prix blended performance with refinement. Standard equipment included bucket seats, a center console, and powerful V8 options that gave it both speed and sophistication.

The car on display is equipped with Pontiac’s high-performance 421-cubic-inch Tri-Power V8, a 390 Posi rear end, and lightweight aluminum 8-lug wheels. Ordered without a radio to save weight, it reflects the performance-first mindset of the early 1960s. Its distinctive hood scoop has an unusual origin—it was originally designed for a Ford dump truck, then adopted by Pontiac engineers and assigned an official part number as an option for the 1962 model year.

Optional Race Equipment:

For those seeking maximum performance, Pontiac offered an optional 421 Super Duty race engine, featuring dual four-barrel carburetors, long-branch headers, a high-lift race camshaft, and big-valve cylinder heads. Every available racing component could be ordered, making the 1962 Grand Prix a formidable machine on both the street and the track.

The Grand Prix quickly established itself as a dominant force both on the street and in NASCAR competition. It represented Pontiac’s perfect balance of muscle and luxury, setting the brand apart from its competitors. The 1962 Grand Prix marked the beginning of a long and storied nameplate that would remain in production for more than four decades.