The 1956 Pontiac Chieftain Wagon 860 stands as a remarkable survivor from the golden age of American long-roof utility. While 1956 was a high-volume year for Pontiac, the model 860 two-door station wagon remained a relative rarity. Only 6,099 of these specific units left the factory, making them a prized find for collectors today. This particular California car has been transformed into a high-end restomod that preserves its vintage soul while embracing modern mechanical reliability. Finished in a striking two-tone PPG Metallic Red and Lexus Starfire Pearl, it represents a perfect marriage of classic aesthetic and contemporary engineering.
Advanced Restomod Chassis and Suspension
Beneath the gleaming exterior, this 1956 Pontiac Chieftain Wagon 860 features a chassis that is built for the modern road. The steering has been vastly improved with a Fat Man Fabrications rack and pinion setup for precision handling. Bilstein shocks at all four corners work in tandem with tubular upper and lower front control arms to provide a smooth, controlled ride. Furthermore, front and rear sway bars have been added to reduce body roll during cornering. This suspension overhaul ensures that the wagon handles more like a modern sport sedan than a heavy mid-century cruiser. It is a build designed for those who actually intend to drive their classics.
Custom Interior and Climate Control
The cabin of this 1956 Pontiac Chieftain Wagon 860 is a masterclass in custom upholstery and driver comfort. Black leather seats feature meticulously embroidered logos, while a full-length overhead console provides integrated lighting. For long journeys, the Vintage Air system includes dedicated outlets for both front and rear passengers. Entertainment is provided by an AM/FM/CD/XM stereo system with high-quality speakers throughout the interior. A Budnik steering wheel sits atop a tilt column, allowing the driver to find the perfect ergonomic position. These interior upgrades create a luxurious environment that complements the car’s bold exterior presence.
Modern Lighting and Wheel Appointments
Visibility and style go hand-in-hand on this build, which utilizes halogen headlights and LED tail lights for improved safety. Even the iconic hood ornament features LED illumination, making the car an absolute standout during evening cruises. The wagon sits perfectly on 17-inch chrome U.S. Mags wheels wrapped in high-performance BFGoodrich tires. These wheels highlight the custom-painted Metallic Red bodywork and provide a subtle hint at the power hidden under the hood. Every detail, from the chrome alternator to the polished brake booster, has been considered to ensure a show-quality finish.
Drivetrain and Rear End Reliability
A Ford 9-inch rear end provides the necessary strength to handle the increased power levels of the modern V8 swap. Power is delivered through a 4L60E four-speed automatic transmission, which offers a great balance of acceleration and highway cruising. This drivetrain combination is widely regarded as one of the most reliable setups for a restomod of this scale. An aluminum radiator with a custom chrome cover ensures the system remains cool even during hot summer drives. Consequently, this 1956 Pontiac Chieftain Wagon 860 is as mechanically sound as it is visually impressive. It is a vehicle that rewards the driver with every turn of the key.
LS1 V8 Performance and Engine Specs
The heart of this 1956 Pontiac Chieftain Wagon 860 is a GM aluminum 5.7L LS1 V-8 engine. This legendary powerplant was factory rated at approximately 350 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque in its original applications. In this wagon, it features custom-painted injector covers and an aluminum radiator for peak thermal efficiency. The LS1 is paired with a 4L60E automatic transmission, providing effortless power delivery across the rev range. Braking is equally impressive, utilizing 4-wheel power discs with Wilwood front calipers and cross-drilled rotors. This combination delivers a visceral driving experience that far exceeds the performance of the original 1950s drivetrain.
Summary of the Chieftain 860 Restomod
This 1956 Pontiac Chieftain Wagon 860 is a rare example of a classic being updated with the right modern components. Its low production numbers make it a unique alternative to the more common vintage wagons of the era. The integration of LS1 power and Wilwood braking makes it a formidable performer on today’s highways. With its California history and recent high-quality repaint, it presents as a turn-key option for a serious enthusiast. It is a stunning tribute to 1950s design, refined by 21st-century technology for a truly timeless driving experience. This wagon is ready to be the centerpiece of any collection or the star of the local show circuit.
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Source: mecum.com
