Image of 1979 Pontiac Parisienne, Note: These illustrations use artistic license and may differ from actual historical models.

1979 Pontiac Parisienne: A Canadian Classic

The 1979 Pontiac Parisienne stands as a testament to the era of full-sized luxury cruisers, hailing from a time when cars were as much about stature as they were about transportation. Born from the storied assembly lines of General Motors' Canadian division, this vehicle encapsulates the perfect blend of American automotive muscle and the tailored elegance its name suggests. With a lineage tracing back to the early 1950s, the Parisienne became synonymous with affordable luxury, offering a slice of opulence without the European price tag. One unique fact that car enthusiasts might find intriguing is that despite its French name, the Parisienne was uniquely tailored for Canadian tastes and roads.

Design and Innovation

The 1979 Pontiac Parisienne boasted a classic silhouette characterized by its long hood, generous proportions, and distinctive Pontiac grille. The car's exterior styling was a harmonious blend of straight lines and subtle curves, culminating in a look that exuded confidence and grace. Inside, passengers were greeted with an interior that prioritized comfort and space. The quality of materials—from plush velour to supple vinyl—reflected an era where craftsmanship was paramount. Technologically, it featured amenities such as power windows and locks, which were considered advanced for its time.

Color options ranged from deep metallic hues to vibrant pastels, with popular choices including the timeless Carmine Red and regal Brittany Blue. The Parisienne came in various body styles, but it was the four-door sedan that became emblematic of family luxury travel, while the two-door coupe appealed to those seeking a sportier aesthetic.

Historical Significance

The 1979 Pontiac Parisienne's impact on automotive design was subtle yet significant. It carried forward the tradition of full-size sedans at a time when fuel efficiency began to dictate market trends. This car stood out for its commitment to providing a luxurious experience without compromising on size or power—a philosophy that would eventually wane but never be forgotten.

Performance and Handling

Underneath the hood lay a robust V8 engine that propelled the Parisienne with authority. While top speed figures were respectable for its class, it was the car's smooth acceleration that left an impression, effortlessly gliding from 0-60 mph in a manner befitting its genteel image. On the road, drivers appreciated its poised handling over bumps and resilience against windy conditions. The driving experience was characterized by a muted engine purr—a stark contrast to the aggressive roars of its muscle car cousins—and a ride quality that prioritized comfort above all else.

Ownership Experience

The 1979 Pontiac Parisienne served various roles from being a dependable daily driver to gracing car shows with its preserved charm. Its reliability was one of its strong suits, with maintenance being straightforward enough for the average owner to handle minor repairs. However, as with many vehicles of this vintage, finding parts today can require some dedicated sourcing.

Fun Facts

A little-known tidbit about the '79 Parisienne is that it occasionally found itself in celebrity garages and has made appearances in period films and television shows set in Canada. While it may not have broken speed records or dominated sales charts like some of its contemporaries, it has held a special place in the hearts of those who value understated elegance.

Collector's Information

In today's market, a well-preserved 1979 Pontiac Parisienne can attract collector interest due to its niche appeal. While production numbers weren't limited like some specialty models—making exact rarity hard to pinpoint—the number of surviving examples in pristine condition is relatively low. As for value range, these vehicles can fetch anywhere from $5,000 for models in fair condition up to $20,000 or more for showroom-quality specimens. The market trend shows appreciation for well-maintained units as they become scarcer over time.

Conclusion

The 1979 Pontiac Parisienne may not have been designed as an icon of innovation or performance; however, it carved out its niche as a symbol of accessible luxury and comfort. Its legacy endures among enthusiasts who appreciate its blend of style and substance—a true piece of Canadian automotive history wrapped in an American package.

1979 Pontiac Parisienne Front coil-spring insulator-BN 110Front coil-spring insulator. Fits '41-'60 Oldsmobile and '50-'83 GM passenger models. 5-3/8 in. OD x 3-3/4 in. ID x 3/4 in. high with 13/16 in. wide bottom flange 1/4" thick, 12 flutes. Each.

1979 Pontiac Parisienne Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide-M 30Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide. Sold by the foot

1979 Pontiac Parisienne Brake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861-RP 2-EBrake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861. 5" X 2-1/2". Each

1979 Pontiac Parisienne Quarter Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of Steel-WF 205Quarter Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of Steel. 1-3/8" X 11/16". Each

1979 Pontiac Parisienne Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 13/16" x 1"-WF 209Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 13/16" x 1". Each

1979 Pontiac Parisienne Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 211Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 15/16" X 3/4". Each

1979 Pontiac Parisienne Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 213Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 7/8" X 5/8". Each

1979 Pontiac Parisienne Lower Side Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of nylon-WF 214Lower Side Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of nylon. 1-1/4" x 3/4". Each