Pontiac Streamliner
Pontiac, in many cases, is a very unique and historic auto manufacturer.
In addition to Oldsmobile, Pontiac had the privilege and benefit of utilizing all three mainstream platforms of General Motors in 1940. Their good fortune was short lived as this accomplishment only lasted for an additional year. The Streamliner was available in three models- the top of the line Chieftain, the Eight, and the Six. But in 1940, the car manufacturer released its first automobile created on the B platform, the Deluxe Series 28. The same year, the company introduced the Torpedo manufactured on the C platform. The Torpedo showcased innovative styling, bigger hip and shoulder room, and a lower exterior. These vehicles provided a comfortable ride for six passengers.
In 1941, Pontiac brought an end to models created on General Motors’ C platform. The following year in 1942, the name “Torpedo” was given to Pontiacs that were created on the A platform. The cars made on the B platform took on the moniker “Streamliner”. The Streamliner was the last car Pontiac released before the war in its series of upper priced vehicles. After the war, the Streamliner coupe was the first vehicle Pontiac put on the market.
An Overview of the Pontiac Streamliner
Regrettably, the Streamliner had as many reasons not to drive it as it did reasons to climb behind the wheel. The car was visually stunning. It looked wider and heavier than other vehicles in its class. The lines of the forward fender appeared longer due to extension caps on the front door. The hood of the vehicle extended back to the front doors. Headlamps were further apart. The width of the bumper and grille was increased. Overall, the vehicle was solidly made with high-quality materials. The word “Pontiac” was placed on the side of the hood on some vehicles. Other vehicles, depending on the model, said Pontiac Eight. These two additions gave the impression of rarity of some models.
But with sunshine also comes rain. The wood-bodied wagons required a great deal of maintenance which is one of the reasons that particular model only lasted a few years. The performance of the Streamliner was not exciting. The engine, though large, did not get the blood pumping or the adrenaline racing. Chevrolet’s that were manufactured at the same time had more visual appeal along with performing at a higher level.
1946 production of the Six model of the Streamliner more than tripled the production of 1942 but decreased in 1947 and fell even further in 1948. Conversely, production of the Eight model quadrupled during the same period.
Details Set the Streamliner Apart
In 1948, Pontiac stepped up the style of the Streamliners. Horizontal grilles with vertical shafts were added. Regardless of the model, all Streamliners came standard or Deluxe. It didn’t matter if the model was a two-door, a four-door fastback, or a station wagon. The Deluxe model was adorned with brightly colored gravel guards, spear moldings on the front fender, and chrome plated wheel discs (except for the station wagons).
The interior of the Deluxe had pillow-like seatbacks, mahogany window trim and dashboard, two-tones, electric clocks on the glovebox, and many other amenities.
The manufacturing of the Streamliner ended in 1951. That was the last time Pontiac offered a vehicle produced on the B platform until 1959.
