1939 Pontiac Deluxe 120 ‘Silver Streak’ Convertible
Pontiac originated within General Motors as a companion marque to Oakland, which itself had evolved from the Pontiac Buggy Company in Pontiac, Michigan.
For 1939, Pontiac offered two six-cylinder lines: the smaller Quality 115 on a 115-inch wheelbase and the larger Deluxe 120 on a 120-inch wheelbase. The distinctive multiple chrome bands running down the hood, nicknamed “Silver Streak” after their 1935 introduction, became a defining Pontiac styling hallmark, though the name itself would not officially appear on the cars until 1948.
The Deluxe 120 utilized General Motors’ larger B-body platform, distinguished by increased glass area, V-shaped windshield openings, and additional chrome detailing compared to the Quality 115.
Power came from an L-head inline-six displacing 222.7 cubic inches, featuring four main bearings, solid valve lifters, and a Carter one-barrel carburetor. The engine produced 85 horsepower at 3,520 rpm and was paired with a three-speed column-shift synchromesh transmission.
Hydraulic drum brakes were fitted at all four wheels. Despite a curb weight of approximately 3,050 pounds, the torquey six delivered impressive efficiency for the era, achieving over 21 mpg on the highway while maintaining a comfortable 50 mph cruising speed.
Body styles included coupe, sport coupe, convertible, and two- and four-door touring sedans. In total, 53,830 Deluxe Six models were produced for 1939, making the convertible one of the rarer and more desirable body styles today.
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