1962 Pontiac Catalina SD: Bendall’s 421 Dual-Quad Racer This 1962 Pontiac Catalina Super Duty, bearing VIN/Serial 362P55542, is a remarkable example of Pontiac’s racing heritage. Built on May 3, 1962, at the Pontiac Assembly plant in Michigan, this Catalina was delivered to Bendall Pontiac in Alexandria, Virginia, and raced successfully in the NHRA on the East Coast and Midwest. Featuring a dual-quad 421ci Super Duty V8 engine, a 4-speed manual transmission, and numerous lightweight modifications, this Catalina is a true racing legend. It will cross the block at the Indy 2025 auction on Saturday, May 17th.
Performance and 421 Dual-Quad V8 Power: The heart of this Catalina is a 13BU-suffix 421ci Super Duty V8 engine, equipped with dual 4-barrel carburetors. Power is delivered through a 4-speed manual transmission and a 4.30 ratio heavy-duty Safe-T-Track rear axle. The car also features very rare lightweight cast aluminum exhaust manifolds, enhancing its performance and reducing weight.
Exterior Styling and Lightweight Modifications: Finished in Cameo Ivory with a red interior, this Catalina features a special-order build. Pontiac special order memo 592 specified that the car was to be built with steel fenders but with an aluminum hood and other aluminum components. To further reduce weight, the car was ordered without a radio or heater, and the sound deadening and seam sealer were removed. The car rides on 8-lug wheels with white stripe tires.
Interior Comfort and Racing Equipment: The interior features special-order bucket seats, a Hurst shifter, and a Sun tachometer. A day/night rearview mirror and E-Z-Eye tinted glass add to the car’s racing-focused features. The dual exhaust system enhances the car’s performance sound.
Racing History and Special-Order Build: This Catalina was raced under the Bendall Pontiac banner and is documented by included PHS paperwork. The car’s special-order specifications and racing pedigree make it a highly desirable collector’s item.
Summary:
- 1962 Pontiac Catalina Super Duty
- Dual-quad 421ci V8 engine
- 4-speed manual transmission
- Cameo Ivory exterior
- Red interior
- Raced by Bendall Pontiac
- Special-order lightweight build
- 8-lug wheels
- Auction: Indy 2025, Saturday, May 17th
Disclaimer: Vehicle specifications and reported conditions may vary. Buyers should conduct thorough inspections and verifications.
Source: mecum.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
