1948 PONTIAC STREAMLINER STATION WAGON

1948 PONTIAC STREAMLINER STATION WAGON
Sold for US$ 41,800 Including Commission
Bonhams Auction, Amelia island, Florida 2015
Coachwork by Ionia Body Company
Chassis no. P8PB13617
248ci Flathead Inline 8-Cylinder Engine
Single Carter Two-Barrel Carburetor
104bhp at 3,800rpm
Hydra-Matic Automatic Transmission
Front Independent Suspension – Live Rear Axle
4-Wheel Drum Brakes
*A true piece of post-WWII Americana
*Top-of-the line Streamliner Deluxe Station Wagon
*Charming powder blue over red and cream interior
*Elegant woodwork inside and out
*Room to cruise for the whole family
THE PONTIAC STREAMLINER
The 'Woodie' station wagon, with its characteristically half-timbered body, ranks alongside the ubiquitous pickup truck as a quintessentially American vehicle type. The style originated in the 1930s, while its popularity peaked in the immediate post-WWII years. Towards the end of the 1950s, the Woodie became the vehicle of choice among California surfers, who appreciated both their unmistakable style along with the practical ability to carry several passengers and their boards. Surfer pop bands such as The Beach Boys and Jan & Dean immortalized them in their hit singles, thereby enshrining the Woodie's cult status.
Like almost every other American motor manufacturer, Pontiac recommenced civilian production in 1946 with what were essentially 1942 models. Two ranges were offered, Torpedo and Streamliner, the latter being the larger and more expensive, both of which were available with six- or eight-cylinder engines. Pontiacs of this period are often referred to by the 'Silver Streak' name, a reference to their multiple chromed hood strips - a styling device first introduced in the mid-1930s.
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
Completed at the Pontiac, Michigan based General Motors plant, this eight-cylinder Streamliner Woodie station wagon represented the top-of-the-line of Pontiac's offering in the late 1940s. These luxurious automobiles were priced nearly 40% higher than Pontiac's Convertible and Coupe models, and were the last of the traditional woodie station wagons to be offered by the brand.
Presented in Deluxe trim, this elegant piece of postwar Americana is finished in a beautiful shade of powder blue, with neatly contrasting red and cream interior trim. The Pontiac's woodwork displays wonderfully inside and out, and appears to have been redone at some point in the past. A charming and rarely seen woodie model, this attractive example is equipped with many neat period options such as a front windshield visor, period radio, spotlight and a vintage California license plate. A standout choice for any vintage auto gathering, and with plenty of room for family and friends, this Pontiac is a rare package, sure to provide many thrilling experiences in the years ahead.
More Info Here: www.bonhams.com/auctions/22530/lot/154/?category=results&length=90&page=2
Robert Myrick Photography