27-Years-Owned 1963 Pontiac LeMans Convertible 326

Description

Introduced for 1961, the Pontiac Tempest brought innovative engineering to General Motors' compact-car lineup, featuring a rear-mounted transaxle and near 50/50 weight distribution that helped distinguish it from its domestic competitors. By 1963, buyers seeking additional performance and luxury could opt for the LeMans package and the newly introduced 326ci V8, creating a combination that foreshadowed Pontiac's muscle-car formula.

This 1963 Pontiac LeMans Convertible is powered by a 326ci V8 said to have been bored over paired with a two-speed automatic transaxle and is finished in Grenadier Red over a red interior. According to the seller, the car has been under current ownership since 1999 and underwent a five-year refurbishment that included stripping the body to bare metal, epoxy priming, refinishing in its original color, rebuilding the engine, and replacing the braking system.

This 1963 Pontiac LeMans Convertible 326 is now offered with New York State registration in the seller’s name.

Highlights

• 27 years under current ownership

• 326ci V8 engine

• 2-speed automatic transaxle

• Finished in Grenadier Red with a tan soft top

• Red vinyl upholstery

Factory Equipment

• The chassis number (263P166161) decodes as:

  • 2 – Pontiac Motor Division

  • 63 – 1963 model year

  • P – Pontiac, Michigan, engine assembly plant

  • 166161 – Sequential engine production number

• 326ci V8 engine

• Two-speed automatic transaxle

• Independent rear suspension

• Convertible body style

• Bucket-seat interior

• Heater and defroster

• Full wheel covers

• Power steering

• Tinted windshield

Modifications

• Engine reportedly bored .030" over

Servicing

According to the seller, the following work was performed during their ownership:

• Body disassembled and stripped to bare metal

• Body epoxy primed and sealed

• Exterior refinished in original Grenadier Red

• 326ci V8 overhauled and bored .030" over

• Crankshaft inspected and magnaflux tested

• Replacement pistons installed

• Replacement brake system components

• Replacement convertible top

• Replacement carpet

Known Imperfections

• Cosmetic imperfections consistent with age

• Transmission leaks

Ownership History

From the seller: “Here it is, the car that started it all, the Pontiac Tempest, a small car with a big engine. This car is only three owners old in its entire life. We have had this car since 1999 and during our ownership completed a five-year comprehensive nut-and-bolt refurbishment. The body was taken apart, stripped to bare metal, epoxy primed, sealed, and professionally repainted in its original Grenadier Red color.

The top was originally white but was replaced with a GM Gold top. The interior was not replaced and remains largely original, with only the carpet being replaced with a correct reproduction piece. The 326ci engine was professionally rebuilt and has approximately 5,000 miles since completion.

All brake components were replaced, and the original driveline remains in place. The transaxle shifts and operates as it should. The car benefits from Pontiac's independent suspension and near 50/50 weight distribution, giving it a balanced feel on the road.”

Included Items

• Spare tire

Additional Information

This vehicle is registered in a state that does not issue titles for vehicles of its age. It is offered with New York State registration.