1959 Pontiac

1959 was the first year that "Bunkie" Knudson's influence would be seen with bold, new styling. The totally redesigned '59s introduced the now famous split grille, modest dual fins and minimal side trim. The wheelbases remained the same but, side-to-side, the wheels were further apart. This was marketed as Pontiac's "Wide-Track" chassis.

Available models were Catalina, Custom Star Chief, and the premium brand, Bonneville. The Super Chief was no longer offered.

The engine was a 389 V-8, offered in various configurations, with horsepower output ranging from 245 hp @ 4200 rpm to 345 hp @ 4800 rpm for the "NASCAR Tri-power".