Learn all about the complete Pontiac line for 1964 just as the salesmen did, in this original GM dealer training film.

We can forgive the Pontiac division of General Motors for the confident, almost swaggering tone of this original dealer training film. The brand was riding high in 1964, trailing only Chevy and Ford in the annual sales wars. Indeed, Pontiac was red hot all through the 1960s, taking the third spot in 1962 and keeping it straight through 1970, despite tough competition from Plymouth, Buick, and Oldsmobile. Hence the title of the production: Smooth Sailing for ’64. 

Pontiac’s full-sized line for 1964 included the low-priced Catalina, the Star Chief, the swank Bonneville, and the personal luxury-themed Grand Prix. With a base price in the  $2,800 range, only $200 more than a comparable Chevy Impala, the showroom appeal of the Catalina is easy to recognize. Reflecting the brand’s sporty and youthful image, there were two full-size convertibles for buyers to choose from, Catalina and Bonneville.

The big change this year was in the Tempest line, as the division’s junior car was moved from the GM Y-body “senior compact” platform to a new A-body package with body-on-frame construction and an intermediate-size 115-inch wheelbase. The move proved to be a popular one, and also provided a platform for the GTO, pioneer of the muscle car movement. Perhaps because it was only an option package on the LeMans rather than a full model for ’64, there’s no specific mention of the GTO here. The messaging in this film is all about ride comfort, not hairy performance. Video below.