Quite possibly the world’s first sport wagons, the Chevrolet Nomad and Pontiac Safari eased onto the market for 1955, bringing much of the 1954 Motorama Dream Cars to life. For Pontiac, the Safari was a great way to showcase exciting new styling, materials usage and a high level of standard and optional amenities. It would also mark the year Pontiac would debut its new 287 CI V-8 engine, part of Safari’s standard equipment. Despite the effort, Nomad largely outsold Safari, thanks mostly to the Pontiac’s higher price. But, in the end, it made the Pontiac a more unique, rarer vehicle, with 1957 marking the rarest of them with just 1,296 built. This 1957 Safari is complete with factory air conditioning and the V-8 engine with an automatic transmission. Presented in a spectacular, factory-correct all black motif with a matching black and white interior, the car features chrome and brightwork, both inside and out, that appear with exquisite reflection and finish, sustaining the seemingly overall terrific condition. Equipped with the in-dash clock, AM radio, Continental kit and wide whitewall tires, one look, and it’s easy to see why the Pontiac commanded such a premium over the Chevrolet—it was a more ornate, detailed and well-appointed car that was aimed at a more upscale market. During the early 1950s, General Motors was considering the closure of Pontiac as sales were steadily declining with the division catering to a clientele of elderly motorists who appreciated the conservative, stoic styling and exceptionally robust engineering. But a glut of young people earning exceptional wages was entering the market, and Pontiac needed to attract them. The Safari would be one of the saviors that helped kick off what would become the new Pontiac with a more luxurious and sporting persona, raising eyebrows with fresh styling, materials, amenities and performance. The Safari wagon would entice youthful adventure seekers with two-door sportiness and wagon spaciousness. Priced about 20% higher than the Nomad, the Safari featured a lot for the money, and it likely could be considered the first sport wagon.
