Looking for a rare piece of GM history that combines Pontiac’s sporty styling with the utility and rugged hardware of a Chevrolet? Look no further than this 1956 Pontiac Pathfinder delivery vehicle which is currently for sale at Hemmings.com.
The Canadian-built Pathfinder represents a unique era in GM history and is an intriguing hybrid of Pontiac and Chevrolet parts, a novelty at a time where both brands used distinctively different styling and even different engines. In the case of the Pathfinder, we see distinctive Pontiac styling cues but the rear retained its Chevrolet roots and gave it the appearance of a Chevrolet from the doors rearward. This is also apparent in its performance hardware with all Pathfinders using Chervolet engines and transmissions versus Pontiac units. This trend as well as their unique construction caused Canadian consumers to nickname them “Cheviacs.”
The example featured here is a 1956 “delivery” variant which was the commercial version of this special vehicle and was recently restored by the current owner to its full glory while still retaining many of its original parts and accessories. A 261-cubic inch Chevrolet V8 with solid lifters provides the motivation with all of its muscle channeled to the rear wheels through a rebuilt 3-speed automatic transmission with buil- in overdrive.
Because of its recent restoration it arrives with no obvious issues though mileage is unknown thanks to a new odometer that was not reset. Still with an asking price of $20,000 it represents a budget friendly opportunity to enter into classic car ownership as well as the unique back story behind one of GM Canada’s most unique models.
Comments
Sure does look like a straight six under the hood!! And says tranny is 3 speed manual w/overdrive. Sweet car.