A 1952 Pontiac Chieftain Catalina That's Ready to Cruise

Pontiac rolled out the Chieftain in 1949 as its first fresh postwar design, and the Catalina hardtop joined the lineup a year later. This 1952 example, listed for sale in Peyton, Colorado, at $28,000 or best offer, pairs a Seamist Green and Belfast Green two-tone finish with a stance the seller lowered by three inches to sharpen its already sweeping profile.

Under the hood sits Pontiac’s long-serving flathead straight-eight, the Silver Streak, which had been around since 1933 and reached its largest displacement of 268.4 cubic inches in 1952. Output of 118 horsepower and 222 lb-ft may sound tame today, but the engine’s low-end torque made it a relaxed highway companion, especially mated to the Dual Range Hydramatic automatic that this car’s original buyer selected.

The seller reports recent work on the brakes along with a new fuel pump, water pump, and voltage regulator, plus a rebuilt generator, and describes the car as running and driving well enough to be flown in and driven home. The two-tone green leather cabin matches the exterior, and equipment includes a heater, defroster, and the optional radio.

Presented as an unrestored survivor rather than a restored showpiece, the Pontiac shows no obvious rust and clean trim for its age. The asking price is ambitious for the current market, though the seller’s willingness to negotiate leaves room for a respectful offer. For someone chasing a turnkey classic cruiser, it makes a compelling case.