Proud Performance of Pontiac

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23381, 24 June 1939, Page 14 (Supplement)

Proud Performance of Pontiac

SUCCESS OF IMPROVED SPRINGING SYSTEM

UPHOLDING the proud tradition of former models, the latest. Pontiac reflects further credit on the products of General Motors for 19:39. From the day this make of car was introduced, the catch-phrase "you'll be proud to own ono" has been stressed by the makers, and it was never more applicable than in the case of the curront Pontiac. From whatever point one wishes to start, it will be found that the oar is a leader in its field. Appearance is an aspect that weighs largely with tho buyer nowadays, and here Pontiac would stand comparison with any other car. A omartly.-modelled front end, incorporating the Pontiac stripes in ohromium. which grace the

Rhowed that it could bo relied upon to give a top-gear performance under all normal driving conditions, taking a number of steep pinches in its stride. Over a route around Hillsborough niul Blockhouse Bay tho car cruised along quite steadily fit oyer 40 miles an hour, hut the newness of the engine prevented any speed test in any gear. Twice it was necessary to drop down into second for the liill on to Swan Road and that leading up from Blockhouse Bay. The first might have been taken in "top, had the car been pushed before the climb. On metal roads tho car was particularly steady, riding the worst bumps quito easily. Counter-balanced, and lifting from the front, the bonnet opens in ono piece. The engine and other equipment have not been jumbled together for want of space, while the cooling system is unhampered. A long 15-plate battery is housed under the bonnet for ready access and easy servicing, which is also general for most of the mechanical parts. Multi-beam headlights constitute a new departure for American cars. For city driving tho lamps throw a beam well ahead, and this may bo tilted for country driving, while on passing a car there is a third switch, giving a dim light on the right and a bright beam on the left.

- ■ ! J t : j Handy Garage Lamp j : An inexpensive and satisfactory j j Wire guard for a garage inspection } i lamp can be made from the skeleton j j of a wire lamp shade such as are : ( sold jor covering with silk or parch- { | ment. Fitted with a bayonet-cap lamp j j holder, pearl lamp and a good length | [ of flex, it makes an excellent inspec- j J lion lamp which will stand firmly in, 1 1 on, or under the car, and will hang j : on any convenient projection under j | the bonnet or dash. When not in ase * j : it can be hung on a nail on the gar- j ■ age wall and left permanently con- j i nected for general lighting. j

The three-spoke steering wheel is designed to give unobstructed vision of the instrument-panel, which consists oF a horizontal speedometer and smalt dials for petrol, oil, electrical and temperature meters. Built into the back, a large luggage trunk houses tho spare wheel and tool. kit. Jack pads_ are provided front and reaf to simplify wheel changes.

centre and sweep over and along the middle of the bonnet, as well as draught grilles on both sides of the radiator, gives the car a superior afrits beauty is enhanced by its streamlined Bed Indian emblem and bold bullet lamps. Luxury is amply provided in the longer Fisher body, with snug-fitting doors, Vhich close without slamming. Although the body is lower, headroom is just as spacious and chair-height seats ensure admirable visibility. Whether driver or passenger, the occupant of a Pontiac senses comfort from the outset, and the ride subsequently proves how homely and cozy it could bo as the family car. Improved springing is employed. The front wheels are independently sprung by knee-action coil springs, which steady the steering and minimise rolling and jarring. However, it is the rear suspension system which has undergone the most radical change. It consists of orthodox leaf springs and auxiliary lower springs, Which automatically make contact as the load increases. It is therefore possible for ono passenger or six to travel in the saino jolt-free comfort. Driving the Pontiac is a happy experience. It is easily handled, thanks to a simple safety gear change on tho steering column, in conjunction with a self-cushioning clutch, which gives extremely smooth engagement, of gears. Moreover, the rear springing arrangement is such that starting shocks are eliminated, and sudden engagement of tho clutch does not stall the engine. In the samo way, forceful application of the powerful hydraulic brakes brings the car to an even standstill. Since 1935 there has been no marked change in engine design, and the latest six-cylinder motor, developing 85 h.p., continues to rank high among the power plants of American cars. Smoothness and silence are outstanding features, while acceleration and power reserve are no less notable. A Pontiac tested in Auckland this week