Of the many things that Semon E. “Bunkie” Knudsen did right, his crowing achievement has to be his work in turning Pontiac around from a staid, conservative brand that clung a bit too hard to it’s past into a division of strong styling and stout powerplants. From the 1957 cars until he was moved to Chevrolet in late 1961, Knudsen’s transformation set the stage for what many consider the ignition point for the Musclecar Era. He was responsible for bringing in Pete Estes and John DeLorean into the fold, he was responsible for focusing on racing prowess and performance, and he was the one who spent a healthy amount of time getting away from Indian heads and chrome strips on the hood. It worked, like a charm…even in 1958, a year when all the manufacturers suffered, Pontiac held ground. That’s a good sign.
It’s amazing to think that this 1961 Ventura is a B-body…it looks smaller, like a preamble to the 1964 A-body, doesn’t it?Only the tiniest vestiges of tailfins and the 1961 interior seem out of place but everything else looks like early muscle, trimmed, taut and ready for action. And on this Ventura, it is…a Pontiac engine that came together via Butler Performance and Kauffman Racing Equipment thumps out 515 horsepower and 605 ft/lbs or torque through a 700R4 overdrive. Looking on the outside, though, would you know it? Those 8-lug wheels, the tinted glass, even the downturned exhaust says stock.
No, really, take my money, please.
One of my favorite cars. If I hit the number someday I’m going to buy it.
Strange color combo, I like it! Give me one with a 4 spd manual thank you.
What I wouldn\’t give to have a real car again, between insurance companies and politicians who\’s greed, apathy, and lack of integrity those days are gone…only rich guys can play these days.
Had one back in the late 60’s same color sweet car.
I like everything abuot the ca. I’m Disabled but I can Drive still with no problems
Don’t ask what others have done for you, but ask what you have done for others