More from MCACN: Pontiac 2+2 Invitational

The planets may have aligned with the 1964 GTO, but Pontiac’s performance lineage began before the GTO with high-performance Catalinas, Bonnevilles, and Grand Prixs (with an occasional Star Chief). However, a GTO-themed full-sizer didn’t come out until 1965. Several of these models were on full display at the 2025 Muscle Cars and Corvette Nationals.

This car, of course, was another piece of Ferrari-inspired trolling (if we want to use a modern word) called the Pontiac 2+2. Initially a trim package for 1964 (which included bucket seats and a console), the 2+2 became a performance package (code W51) for the 1965 Catalina using the GTO’s formula of a standard big engine (in this case, a 421), floor-mounted three-speed manual, and special trim that distinguished it from run-of-the-mill Catalinas. Two Tri-Power options were available through 1966, the year the 2+2 became its own model. For the redesigned 1967 Pontiac, the 2+2 reverted to a performance package, now with a standard 428 four-barrel or optional 428 HO.

2+2s have been somewhat enigmatic because production numbers are not known by body style for 1965-66; thanks to the GM Heritage Center, we know that only 280 convertibles were built in 1967, though we don’t exactly know the engine distribution. Nevertheless, 2+2s can be either relatively easy to find or difficult to figure out.

At MCACN, the Pontiac 2+2 Invitational featured several of its namesake, plus a 421-powered Bonneville and Catalina Ventura (as seen above)—in the hands of the original owner, no less! And if you’re into Canadian 2+2s (a different breed, much like the ‘64), be sure to check out our coverage of Maple Leaf Muscle!