316.6 CID "Strato-Streak" V8 - 4BBL - 227 HP - Hydra-Matic Auto. - 1 of 43,392

This 1956 Pontiac Star Chief Catalina Coupe Custom is a beautifully preserved, stock example of Pontiac's top-of-the-line 2 door hardtop model. When Pontiac introduced its 1956 models to the public on October 21, 1955, two model lines were offered, the entry-level Chieftain and the more luxurious Star Chief which rode on a slightly longer, 124" wheelbase. Perhaps the most notable difference for the '56 Star Chiefs was the snazzier exterior trim including various Star Chief emblems, a trifecta of "Chief Stars" on the rear decklid, fluted panel bands on the rear quarter panels, and a band of chrome surrounding the side windows. The front bumpers in 1956 were also a bit glitzier than the previous year with a new all chrome design with integrated round parking lights and "bomb-type" bumper guards. With the jet-like hood ornament, "torpedo-style" trim on the rear quarters, and the bomber looking bumper, it is clear that Pontiac was heavily influenced by the growing aviation industry at the time. Another interesting item to note was that during the mid-fifties, Pontiac (like many automakers at the time) offered two versions of its 2-door vehicles– "2-Door Sedans" and "2-Door 'Catalinas,'" with the term "Catalina" referring to Pontiac's own nomenclature for its pillar-less 2-door hardtop. Moreover, 1956 was a banner year for the Pontiac Motor Division of General Motors with the addition of famed automotive executive Buckie Knudsen taking the reigns at the GM marque in the middle of the summer and with Pontiac producing its six millionth automobile a month later. Powering this Star Chief is a 316.6 Cubic Inch "Strato-Streak" V8 engine paired with a single 4 barrel carburetor that pushed out 227 horsepower when new. The 317 Stratostreak V8 is mated to a Hydra-Matic Automatic Transmission ensuring that anybody can take this 50s cruiser for a spin around the block. Exhaust exits this Pontiac's V8 engine via a dual exhaust setup that gives this car a nice throaty sound. This Star Chief rides on a set of whitewall radial tires paired with a set of full wheelcovers that give this Star Chief Catalina a great look and even better ride. The exterior on this Pontiac Star Chief is finished in a two-tone paint scheme consisting of Sun Beige over Sandalwood Tan, just how it came from the Kansas City factory back in 1956. The interior on this 1956 Star Chief is gorgeous! The front and rear bench seats are upholstered in Beige vinyl with rust colored patterned cloth inserts that have a nice stock look. The dash, door panels, and steering wheel all appear to be in their stock configuration and have a charming original appearance. The dash is equipped with a 120 MPH speedometer, battery gauge, water temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, and fuel gauge, along with a push-button AM radio, lighted glovebox, and clock. Whether you're buying your first classic car or you're adding to your existing Pontiac collection, this 1956 Pontiac Star Chief Catalina Custom Coupe would make an excellent choice. Call us today at 763-428-7337!