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The 1959 Pontiacs were perhaps the most radical year-to-year overhaul conducted in Detroit in the 1950s. It was even more amazing, considering that the 1958 models were a complete change from the 1957s, and nothing was carried over to 1959. The new Bonneville was wild, with “Strato-Star” styling, lower and longer bodies, split grilles, twin-fin rear fenders, and a 40 percent increase in glass area due to a huge windshield and flat-top roofs on the Vista pillarless sedans. The track was increased five inches for a “wide-track” stance which would be advertised for years.

The Bonneville’s 389-cid V-8 could be ordered in a variety of tunes, with power ranging from 215 hp, to 260, 300, 315, 330, or 345 hp depending on carburetion and transmission. The famous “Tri-Power” carburetors were offered on a 315 hp street engine and its 345 hp racing sibling. Car Life rated the Bonneville as Best Buy Between $2,000-$3,000. All Bonnevilles came with more brightwork and oval taillights.

As Pontiac’s top model, the Bonneville used the longest available wheelbase, which was 124 inches (122 inches on the station wagon). The Bonneville came as a convertible, two-door hardtop, four-door Vista hardtop, and a four-door Custom Safari station wagon.