Description

1962 Pontiac Bonneville Superior Hearse – 1 of 10 Produced, Rare Survivor on Wagon Chassis

This 1962 Pontiac Bonneville-based Superior Hearse is an incredibly rare coach-built survivor, believed to be one of only 10 originally produced and quite possibly the only known surviving example today. Built on a Pontiac Bonneville station wagon chassis and sent to Superior Coach Company for professional funeral conversion, this car represents a near-forgotten chapter in American automotive and coachbuilding history. It is a fascinating blend of high-style early 1960s Pontiac design and custom-built commercial utility, preserved in honest, period-correct condition.

Showing just 66,025 miles, this hearse remains a remarkable original example, retaining its distinctive styling, dignified presence, and much of its original fit and finish. For collectors, Pontiac enthusiasts, or coachbuilt vehicle aficionados, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire a piece of American design and cultural heritage rarely seen in any condition—let alone one this well-preserved.

Exterior

The long, imposing body retains its original lines and the unique coachwork modifications executed by Superior. The stretched roofline, elongated rear quarters, and custom tailgate section are hallmarks of the conversion and speak to the craftsmanship and specialized design language employed by Superior in the early 1960s.

Paint presents in driver-quality condition, with an aged yet dignified appearance consistent with its age and originality. Chrome trim, brightwork, and factory badging are all present, including correct Superior emblems and Pontiac Bonneville scripts. The vehicle sits level and retains excellent stance, with factory-style steel wheels and period-correct hubcaps adding to the formal aesthetic.

Interior

Inside, the vehicle remains highly original and evocative of its era, from the color-matched dashboard and trim to the preserved rear compartment. The front cabin features bench seating, a column-mounted shifter, and factory switchgear, most of which is still functional. Instrumentation is intact and clear, with a straightforward driver’s environment appropriate for professional use.

The rear compartment, purpose-built by Superior for funeral service, retains its original structural and cosmetic elements, including cargo trim, rails, and detailing that reflect the somber role it once played. Upholstery, headliner, and interior panels show an honest patina with wear appropriate for a lightly used, garaged vehicle.

Mechanical

Power comes from a classic Pontiac V8, paired with a 3-speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels. The car is said to run and drive well, with smooth shifting and quiet operation typical of well-built full-size Pontiacs from the era. Given the hearse’s limited use and careful maintenance history, its mechanical components remain in strong working order, offering dependable cruising performance for events, shows, or preservation-oriented ownership.

The chassis, based on the full-size Bonneville station wagon, provides a stable and compliant ride. Suspension and braking systems remain intact and functional. The undercarriage shows expected surface aging but remains structurally sound and representative of a well-cared-for vintage vehicle.

Summary

This 1962 Pontiac Bonneville Superior Hearse is a one-of-ten factory conversions, and likely the last known example in existence. Its blend of rarity, coachbuilt craftsmanship, and originality makes it a compelling addition to any serious vintage vehicle collection—particularly for those who appreciate the history of American commercial and ceremonial vehicles.

Whether shown as a historical oddity, displayed as part of a Pontiac or professional vehicle collection, or preserved as an untouched survivor, this Superior hearse tells a story few cars can match. It embodies not just the stylized excess of early 1960s American design, but also the quiet dignity of its intended purpose.

An unforgettable and irreplaceable piece of automotive Americana.

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At The Auctions, we provide multiple purchasing methods for vehicles stored securely at our facility. Our inventory features a wide selection of vehicles, including both in-house stock and consignment listings, each meticulously inspected by our in-house quality assurance team.

Vehicles are available for collection directly from our warehouse, ensuring a seamless handover process. All payments are securely processed through Escrow.com, offering peace of mind and transparency in every transaction.

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