Amongst the classic and vintage cars consigned for RM Auctions’ St. Johns sale in Michigan on July 28, was a gem for Pontiac fans in the form of a very rare 1949 sedan delivery model.

Any post-war sedan delivery is a rare sight now, and Pontiacs even more so, as they were built in much smaller numbers (reportedly only 1,030 units for 1949) than the equivalent Chevrolet units. Before 1949, sedan deliveries were only built for the Canadian market, too.

For the 1949 model year, Pontiacs received all-new “Streamliner” styling, the first major makeover of the range since the end of World War II, and this was applied to the sedan delivery models, too. Despite the body changes, the ‘silver streak’ bonnet strips and Indian head adornment that had become a signature Pontiac feature were retained for the new model.

Built on same platform as Pontiac’s entry-level Streamliner Six, the sedan delivery was powered by a 239.2ci six-cylinder engine, with a three-speed all synchro manual transmission. Despite being a “working” vehicle, the sedan deliveries were reasonably well-equipped inside, but this particular unit had been fitted with slightly more modern bucket seats, new mohair headlining, along with a high standard of interior trim that matched the rest of the vehicle.

Cosmetically restored in 1995, the Pontiac was treated to a full mechanical rebuild in 2011, with the ‘Pontiac Service’ livery applied at the same time. The immaculate condition and rarity of this ’49 sedan delivery was reflected in the price it fetched at St. Johns – US$52,250. In 2010, the same unit sold for US$44,550 at an Auctions America by RM sale in Indiana, showing the benefit of the freshen-up and mechanical refurbishment.

For more details on these and other lots from the RM Auctions St. Johns sale, go to www.rmauctions.com

Images: Copyright Michael Ford, courtesy RM Auctions