Finding a 1957 Pontiac Chieftain Safari that spent its entire life in the dry Arizona climate is a rare treat for collectors. This specific four-door wagon stayed with its original owner for fifteen years before transitioning into a well-loved project. While the exterior wears a heavy layer of natural patina, the mechanical components tell a very different story of modern care. It represents a unique blend of mid-century aesthetics and reliable fuel-injected performance.
Engine Performance and Modern Upgrades
The heart of this wagon is a 347ci Strato-Streak V8 engine that underwent a complete rebuild during 2012. To ensure modern reliability, the owner installed a FiTech Go Street fuel injection system three years later. This setup includes a new intake manifold and a high-pressure Hyperfuel pump for better fuel delivery. Technicians bored the block and balanced the rotating assembly to create a smooth and powerful driving unit.
Transmission and Drivetrain Reliability
Shifting duties are handled by a classic column-shifted three-speed manual transmission that provides a tactile connection to the road. The rear differential and axles were overhauled in 2014 to ensure the drivetrain could handle the updated power. A dual exhaust system gives the small-block V8 a healthy growl without being overly aggressive. These updates make the vintage wagon much more capable of keeping up with modern traffic flows.
Chassis Adjustments and Stopping Power
To improve the stance and handling, the suspension was lowered by nearly two inches at both the front and rear. A front anti-roll bar was added to reduce body roll during cornering maneuvers on the heavy steel frame. Braking is still managed by four-wheel drums, though the entire system was completely overhauled in 2019 for safety. The 15-inch steel wheels wear classic whitewall tires that perfectly complement the era-correct hubcaps.
Refreshed Interior Comforts
The cabin features three rows of bench seating that have been reupholstered in a sharp patterned gray and white vinyl. New door panels and a fresh headliner provide a clean environment that contrasts with the weathered exterior paint. For entertainment, the original push-button radio was converted to receive FM signals while maintaining its vintage appearance. Functional lap belts and an underseat heater ensure the interior remains practical for family outings.
Original Details and Factory Heritage
The body still displays the factory Sheffield Grey paint mixed with Lucerne Blue accents along the missile-shaped side inserts. These unique trim pieces feature three star-style decorations that define the luxury styling of the late fifties. Despite some roof rail corrosion, the chrome bumpers were professionally straightened to maintain the car’s iconic silhouette. Every badge and tail fin remains in place to honor the original design language of Pontiac.
Specifications and Technical Data
This wagon produces healthy torque from its 347ci V8 engine which features a custom-ground crankshaft and resurfaced heads. The cooling system is supported by a Powermaster generator and a thick radiator to handle high desert temperatures. With folding second and third-row seats, the cargo capacity is massive for a vehicle of this age. All gauges were refurbished to provide accurate readings of the engine’s vital signs during operation.
Market Summary for the Chieftain Safari
This 1957 Pontiac Chieftain Safari offers a compelling mix of authentic aging and significant mechanical investment for any buyer. It comes with extensive documentation including registration records dating back to the late fifties and modern service receipts. The inclusion of spare parts like the original carburetor allows the next owner to choose their path. It stands as a functional piece of automotive history that is ready for the open road.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
