1958 Pontiac 2 Door VIN Verification

INTRODUCTION

The 1958 Pontiac 2-Door models represented a bold step forward for Pontiac during a period when General Motors was redefining its divisions to compete in the growing American car market. Known for their striking design, larger proportions, and more powerful V8 engines, the 1958 lineup helped Pontiac establish a stronger performance-oriented reputation that would continue into the 1960s. The 2-door body style was among the most popular of the year, appealing to buyers who wanted a mix of sporty looks and everyday practicality.

HISTORY & ORIGINS

Pontiac had long been positioned as GM’s mid-range brand, offering more luxury than Chevrolet but at a lower price than Oldsmobile, Buick, or Cadillac. By the late 1950s, Pontiac was undergoing a transformation under new leadership, with an emphasis on performance and style.

The 1958 model year was significant as it marked the final year of the “Chieftain” and “Super Chief” nameplates, soon to be replaced by the more iconic Bonneville, Catalina, and Star Chief lines. The cars were longer, wider, and heavier than their predecessors, featuring new styling cues that reflected the flashy chrome era of the 1950s.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

Pontiac offered a range of V8 engines for the 1958 2-door models, giving buyers a balance of performance and reliability:

• 370 cu in V8 – Standard engine with around 240 horsepower.

• 370 cu in V8 with Tri-Power (triple carburetors) – Produced up to 300 horsepower, making it one of Pontiac’s earliest high-performance engines.

• Transmission options:

  • 3-speed manual (standard).

  • 4-speed Hydra-Matic automatic (optional).

The availability of Pontiac’s Tri-Power setup (three 2-barrel carburetors) foreshadowed the performance image the brand would fully embrace in the 1960s with models like the GTO.

DESIGN & FEATURES

The 1958 Pontiac 2-Door was all about presence and style:

• Exterior Design

  • Bold use of chrome and stainless trim.

  • Quad headlights, a first for Pontiac in 1958.

  • Large, wide grille with horizontal chrome bars.

  • Sweeping side moldings with two-tone paint options.

  • Tailfins, though less exaggerated than Cadillac’s, added to the 1950s look.

• Interior Design

  • Spacious cabin with bench seating.

  • Premium cloth or vinyl upholstery depending on trim.

  • Chrome-accented dashboard with large, round gauges.

  • Optional deluxe steering wheel and upgraded radio.

TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS

The 1958 Pontiac 2-Door could be found across multiple trim lines:

• Chieftain – Entry-level trim with fewer luxury features.

• Super Chief – Mid-level offering with more standard equipment.

• Star Chief – Positioned as a more upscale model.

• Bonneville – Top-of-the-line, limited production, and more luxurious.

Body styles included 2-door coupes and hardtops, with some trims offering convertible options.

SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY

Safety features were basic compared to modern standards, but Pontiac incorporated improvements for the era:

• All-steel safety frame construction.

• Improved brakes with optional power assist.

• Padded dashboard and safety door locks (optional).

• Power steering and power brakes available for easier handling.

FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY

Like most full-size cars of the late 1950s, fuel economy was not a major selling point:

• Average fuel economy was around 12–15 mpg.

• Buyers prioritized power, comfort, and style over efficiency.

MARKET COMPARISON

In 1958, Pontiac’s 2-Door models competed with:

• Chevrolet Bel Air / Impala

• Oldsmobile 88

• Buick Special

• Ford Fairlane 500

Pontiac distinguished itself with more performance potential than Chevrolet and more affordability than Buick or Oldsmobile, making it a strong middle-ground option for buyers.

PRICING

• Original MSRP (1958): Around $2,700–$3,400, depending on trim and options.

• Current Market Value (2025):

  • Restorable examples: $10,000–$20,000.

  • Well-restored models: $35,000–$55,000, with rare Bonnevilles commanding higher prices.

NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES

• Marked one of the most stylish years for Pontiac during the chrome era.

• Helped establish the performance credibility of Pontiac engines with the Tri-Power V8.

• Today, considered a collectible classic, particularly in hardtop and convertible forms.