Produced from 1958 to 1987, the Pontiac Parisienne stands as one of the longest-running nameplates in Pontiac’s history. However, its presence in the United States was delayed until 1983, setting it apart from iconic models like the GTO, Catalina, and Bonneville.
Introduced in 1959 as a replacement for the Pathfinder, the Parisienne shared showroom space with the Laurentian and Strato-Chief. These full-size vehicles, shorter than their U.S. counterparts, featured design cues from the Catalina but rode on Chevrolet underpinnings. Initially part of the Laurentian line, the Parisienne became a separate model in the following year, becoming Pontiac’s top-of-the-line full-size car in Canada.
In 1983, the Parisienne finally reached U.S. showrooms, just three years before its discontinuation. Imported from Canada after the demise of the Catalina and downsizing of the Bonneville, the Parisienne failed to make a lasting impact on the American car market.
Fast forward to 2023, and the Parisienne struggles to receive the attention it deserves. Many examples languish in junkyards and barns, often dismantled when changing hands. This fate befalls the Laurentian and Pathfinder models as well.
However, amidst the neglect, some Parisiennes have survived remarkably well. A 1960 four-door sedan, hidden for over five decades, emerges in 2023 in surprisingly good condition. Covered in dust, yet seemingly rust-free with intact paint and chrome trim, this Parisienne has the potential for a notable restoration.
Though details about the interior and engine remain undisclosed, the first-generation Parisienne boasted an inline-six and two V8 powerplants shared with the Impala. Ranging from a 261-cubic-inch six-cylinder to powerful 283- and 348-cubic-inch V8s, the Parisienne offered diverse options, with the latter delivering up to 335 horsepower.
Regardless of its under-the-hood secrets, the Parisienne stands out as a rarer gem than its U.S. counterparts, with production numbers seldom exceeding 60,000 units annually in the 1960s. While not a super rare find, this unrestored four-door exemplar is a prime candidate for a complete restoration.
# FAQs
## What is the Pontiac Parisienne?
The Pontiac Parisienne is a Canadian-made full-size car produced by Pontiac from 1958 to 1987, gaining prominence as one of the brand’s enduring nameplates.
## When did the Parisienne enter the U.S. market?
The Parisienne was introduced to the U.S. market in 1983, three years before it was discontinued.
## What makes the 1960 Parisienne mentioned unique?
The 1960 Parisienne mentioned is a well-preserved four-door sedan, hidden for over 53 years, showcasing remarkable condition despite its extended storage.
## What engine options were available for the Parisienne?
The first-generation Parisienne offered an inline-six and two V8 powerplants shared with the Impala, including a standard 261-cubic-inch six-cylinder and optional 283- and 348-cubic-inch V8s.
## How rare is the Pontiac Parisienne?
While not considered super rare, the Parisienne is notably rarer than its U.S.-made Pontiac counterparts, with production numbers rarely exceeding 60,000 units annually in the 1960s.
