FAST

FACTS

The Chieftain featured a straight 8 engine called the “Silver Streak, the most powerful Pontiac engine at the time. The Silver Streak was also the “lowest priced straight 8 in America” according to Pontiac marketing, and it was built to last 100k miles. When paired with a manual transmission, the engine had a remarkably low idle speed of only 450 rpm
The name “Silver Streak” came from the 5 chrome metal bands that ran down the middle of the hood and trunks of Pontiacs manufactured from 1935 to 1956. Derived from the mid-30’s “Art Deco style”, it was designed to create the illusion of speed, and it was a visual cue to help distinguish Pontiacs from their competitors
Featured GM’s “Autotronic Eye” that automatically dims the headlights for oncoming vehicles, as well as a hood ornament that glows when headlights come on

Key Model Year Changes:

Horsepower for the straight 8 “Silver Streak” rose to 116hp (from 108hp)
Featured a new “De Luxe” instrument panel with two tone finish
This was Pontiac Division’s 25th anniversary. The “Silver Anniversary” Chieftains had special trim on the C-pillars and a blue-and-ivory interior

Specs: