Cars from the 'lost years'?

[jcarlso1]

I'm new to this site. One of the reasons I joined was to see what I could find out about Pontiacs from 1969...the full size ones. There's lots to be found about the GTO, Firebird, etc., but not a whole lot (anywhere) about the 'biggies'. Hard time finding pictures, information, parts. Specifically, I own a 69 Catalina convertible. I think I've found one or maybe two in all my searching out on the internet. Did these cars all rust away or weren't there many built? Misery loves company, so if anyone has any info, I'd sure appreciate it. I've had this car stored inside since 1976 and am just starting to restore it....I think I have a HUGE job ahead of me Thanks, JC in MN

[Larry]

Welcome to PontiacRegistry.com.

You are one of the lucky few who has a full-sized '69 Pontiac. I too have wondered where they are. According to numbers (246,596 Catalinas; 39,061 Executives; and, 96,315 Bonnevilles), you would think some would still be around. Those numbers are only a few shy of the 1968 totals, and you sure see a lot more of them. So, what gives? Any ideas?

I have wondered in the past if the deteriorated nose pieces (and lack of replacements) might have kept some of the '69s out of the restorer's garage, but that doesn't seem like a very good answer.

Please share any source information you find so others can benefit too.

Thanks,
Larry

[super]

Seems like there are several nice '69 ful-size Pontiacs in my area (Missouri). Most are hardtops, but there is one convertible. There is a gentlemen in St. Clair, MO thats owns a '69 Catalina convertible with a 400. Brings it out to the father's day car show and other local events. Beautiful car.

My friend owns a '69 Catalina with a 428 (was just a 400 car). This car runs hard! Also has a 4-dr 400 car.

Danny Schmidt from Modern Garage in Sullivan, MO owned a low-mileage 4-dr '69. The car had the original paint and was immaculant. Danny may have sold this car. Not for sure.

There a a couple of good parts cars in salvage yards. Hopefully they have not been crushed due to high scrap prices.

Good luck with your project.