Back in the mid-’50’s, the Star Chief was the top-of-the-line Pontiac that could be purchased, and the convertible model was sought-after by many. The 1955 model was the last year that could be purchased before seat belts were offered, and in 1954 air conditioning housed under the hood was an addition, the first of its kind for the price range. 

It had a super-long 123.5-inch wheelbase, which assured owners of a nice smooth ride, and in 1955 Pontiac introduced the 287 cubic-inch all-new V8 engine. The Star Chief was the Pontiac version of the much more popular Chevrolet Bel Air, and showed off the era’s technical innovations we’ve come to consider as standard nearly 60 years later. 

This particular Star Chief convertible was stuffed in a barn 30 years ago, in a condition the seller describes as “very solid top to bottom”. The sheetmetal appears to be in pretty good condition from what we can see, although the rest of the car leaves quite a bit to be desired. Then again, it is a 58-year-old car that’s been hidden away, and for the new owner, finding replacement parts can be best described as a labor of love. 

If you’re of the mind to go out and restore a car, this appear to be a pretty good base to start with. A quick search of the Google Machine finds a beautifully-restored 1954 version for sale at $93,000, and a comparable 1955 model for $39,000.

We’re not sure whether this one is even worth the starting bid of $18,500, but for the right buyer it might just be the hot ticket. Classic cars can be an investment, but if you grew up in this time period and remember riding in the backseat of one on your way to school, the pure nostalgia value alone might have you willing to clean out your wallet to own it.