Pontiac Bonneville (3rd generation)
The birth of the Wide-Track era and Pontiac's performance revolution.
- Power
- 300 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.2 s
- Top speed
- 118 mph
- Est. value
- $28k–$85k
About the Pontiac Bonneville
The 1959 Bonneville marked the debut of Pontiac's legendary 'Wide-Track' design, pushing the wheels further apart to improve stability and handling. This third-generation model introduced the iconic split-grille styling and the new 389 cubic-inch V8, which would become a cornerstone of Pontiac performance for years. As the brand's flagship, it combined lavish interior appointments with genuine speed, earning Motor Trend's Car of the Year award. Its long, finned silhouette and broad stance defined the transition from 1950s excess to 1960s muscle.
Pontiac Bonneville specs
The Pontiac Bonneville produces 300 bhp (224 kW) and 569 Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.2 seconds and has a top speed of 118 mph (190 km/h).
| Make | Pontiac |
|---|---|
| Model | Bonneville |
| Generation | Third Generation (3rd generation) |
| Trim | 6.4 V8 |
| Years | 1959–1960 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 82,564 built |
| Original price | About $3,300 when new |
| Engine | 6.4-litre 389 V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,375 cc (6.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 300 bhp (224 kW) at 4,600 rpm |
| Torque | 569 Nm (420 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 8.2 s |
| Top speed | 118 mph (190 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed Hydra-Matic automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,912 kg (4,215 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 157 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Pontiac Bonneville worth?
A typical Pontiac Bonneville is estimated to be worth $28,000 – $85,000 (about £21,000 – £63,000).
Its original price when new was about $3,300.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Pontiac Bonneville rarity in CarSpot
The Pontiac Bonneville is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 50 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Pontiac Bonneville fun facts
- The 1959 Bonneville served as the official pace car for the inaugural Daytona 500.
- Pontiac's 'Wide-Track' marketing was born this year, as the car's track was five inches wider than its competitors, significantly improving cornering.
- The 389 V8 engine introduced in 1959 would later power the first Pontiac GTO in 1964.
