The 1957 Pontiac Safari Wagon is a classic American station wagon produced by Pontiac, a division of General Motors, in the late 1950s. This particular model is part of the Pontiac Star Chief series and is highly regarded among car enthusiasts for its unique styling, performance, and rarity.
Here are some key details and features of the 1957 Pontiac Safari Wagon:
- Design and Styling:
- The 1957 Safari Wagon featured distinctive styling that was in line with the design trends of the late 1950s. It had a sleek and long profile with prominent tail fins, chrome accents, and a wide front grille.
- It was available in both two-door and four-door configurations, with the two-door version being more popular among collectors today due to its rarity.
- Engine Options:
- The Safari Wagon came equipped with a V8 engine, which was a hallmark of Pontiac’s performance-oriented approach.
- There were several engine options available, ranging from the base 347 cubic-inch V8 to more powerful iterations, such as the 347-cubic-inch “Tri-Power” V8, which featured three two-barrel carburetors. The Tri-Power engine was capable of producing impressive horsepower for the era.
- Transmission:
- Buyers could opt for either a three-speed manual or a three-speed automatic transmission.
- Interior:
- The interior of the 1957 Safari Wagon was spacious and comfortable, offering seating for up to six passengers.
- It featured stylish upholstery and various amenities, although the level of luxury could vary depending on the trim level and options chosen.
- Performance:
- Thanks to its powerful V8 engine options, the 1957 Pontiac Safari Wagon offered strong performance for its time. It was capable of delivering brisk acceleration and a smooth ride.
- Production Numbers:
- The 1957 Pontiac Safari Wagon was produced in limited numbers, making it a relatively rare and sought-after collector’s car today. The exact production figures vary by source, but there were likely around 1,800 to 1,900 two-door Safari Wagons produced and a similar number of four-door versions.
- Collector’s Value:
- Due to its rarity and the nostalgia associated with 1950s American cars, the 1957 Pontiac Safari Wagon is a highly collectible vehicle. Well-preserved examples in good condition can command a significant premium in the collector car market.
- Legacy:
- The 1957 Safari Wagon, like many classic American cars of its era, has become an icon of 1950s automotive design and style. It represents a bygone era of American automobile manufacturing known for its chrome-laden exteriors and powerful V8 engines.
Today, the 1957 Pontiac Safari Wagon remains a favorite among classic car enthusiasts and collectors, cherished for its unique styling and the nostalgia it evokes for the golden age of American automobiles.
