There were plenty of big body cars pumped out by General Motors during the 1960s. The Pontiac brand had the Pontiac Catalina, a vehicle that you could fit a family in and ride anywhere in style. Cars like the Catalina continue to grow in popularity with builders, and the Roadster Shop’s take on this 1966 Pontiac 2 + 2 that was built for Derek Herrema model is spot on.

The 1960s-era vehicles that were produced by GM are packed with style and have some graceful lines. For this build, the Roadster Shop didn’t really modify the body, but instead went after the vehicle’s underpinnings to improve its ride. A FAST TRACK IRS chassis was bolted to the body, this improves the ride of the Pontiac, and makes it handle like a nimble sports car. Greening Auto Company made a custom set of 8-lug style wheels for the Catalina and they match the look of the car perfectly.

The entire powertrain of the Pontiac was replaced with modern parts. A supercharged LS3 from Wegner Automotive was bolted between the front fenders. Bowler Transmissions built the T-56 that’s stationed behind the LS-based mill, and it handles the 750 horsepower that’s generated by the engine with ease. This combination makes the Catalina a real pleasure to drive and gives it some serious pep in its step.

Inside the Pontiac, you’ll find a custom interior from Miranda Built Inc. A set of Hellcat SRT seats were used to replace the OEM units, and they were outfitted with some chrome trim to make the interior pop. The driver gets to look at a set of Dakota Digital gauges to monitor the Pontiac’s vitals as they cruise the streets.

You’ll want to check out this video from the Roadster Shop as Jeremy Gerber takes the big Pontiac for a spin and talks about the impressive build.