Chrome trim has all but been phased out of existence on modern vehicles, but for many decades, a car’s brightwork was a key part of its engineering, design, and identity. Some Pontiac models took on names that called attention to specific pieces of trim.
The Pick of the Day is a 1936 Pontiac Silver Streak listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Haverhill, Massachusetts. (Click the link to view the listing)
“This car was a meticulous frame-off restoration that took many years to complete,” the seller says.
The name “Silver Streak” referred to a chrome or stainless-steel trim piece that ran down the center of the Pontiac’s hoods (and sometimes trunk lids) during the years just before and after World War II. The design element that lasted in various iterations from 1935 through 1956. (The last three years for the treatment, it consisted of two parallel trim pieces instead of one centrally-mounted piece). Marketing materials referred to Silver Streaks from the 1930s as “America’s Most Distinctive Car.”
True to form, today’s featured Pontiac has plenty of brightwork to give it visual appeal. The seller says that most of the chrome is original and was rechromed during restoration around 2014. The deep burgundy metallic paint finish complements the lines of the body (complete with rear-hinged “suicide” rear doors), and cosmetic updates to the exterior include color-keyed sideview mirrors, black running boards, and machined aluminum wheels.
Under that Silver Streaked-hood, power comes from a crate-sourced 350cid small-block Chevrolet with a fuel injection system. Torque is transferred to the rear wheels via a 4L80 four-speed automatic transmission. There have been a few other key updates to the engineering: Power steering, power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes, a Mustang II-style front end, a 1973 Firebird rear end, and newer equipment for the suspension and fuel system. The cabin benefits from Vintage Air A/C, lap belts, a modern audio system, an overhead console, and a full set of aftermarket instruments.
“The car has only traveled 910 miles since restoration was completed 10 years ago – primarily parades, shows, and bringing the grandkids for rides. I find myself using it less and less each year and figured it was time to let someone else enjoy this incredible car,” the seller says.
Streak your way over to this listing and make an offer on this Pontiac before it’s gone. The asking price is $45,000 or best offer.
To view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com, check out the listing here.
Nice Silver Streak. I owned a ’50 Black Silver Steak Pontiac Coop. The solid, waterfall, chrome trim on the hood was crowned with a Pontiac brave and the same style chrome trim on the back trunk lid. Black and lots of chrome trim made this car sleek and sexy, even if the body style was a bit bulbous.