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1956 Pontiac Chieftain Information

The Pontiac Chieftain was a new model in 1956. Designed by the team of Estes and Delorian, it was an instant success as both a family and performance car. Its many models included two- and four-door sedans, station wagons and convertibles.

Engine
- A high compression, overhead valve V8 engine, first introduced by Oldsmobile and Cadillac a few years earlier, gave the '56 Pontiac high performance potential. It was rated as high as 285 horsepower with dual four-barrel carburetors and dual exhaust on almost all models plus a racing camshaft.
Appearance
- The '56 Pontiac Chieftain models all featured a new style bumper grill and slash accent moldings on the body. Almost all the Chieftains were two-tone. A number of beautiful, new colors pleased buyers who purchased the car in remarkable numbers the first year of its appearance.
Options
- The Pontiac Chieftain models offered abundant luxury options. Air conditioning for less than $500 was a big attraction. Pontiac also featured the Hydromatic automatic transmission. Power brakes, power steering, power seats and seat belts could also be selected.
Vintage Models
- Completely drivable '56 Pontiac Chieftains are available at auctions of vintage classic cars. The more original components it has, the greater the car's value, which may range up to $35,000, as of 2010. Cars in rough shape but with most of the body and engine intact may be purchased for as little as $2,000.

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