In 1955, Pontiac engineers had noted the new engine’s long development period, and that styling trends’ constraints upon engine size had been a primary consideration: “The new Pontiac engine is the culmination of nine years of design and development work. In 1946, it became evident that future styling requirements, coupled with prospects for improved fuels, necessitated the eventual introduction of a more compact, more rigid engine, and an engineering program was initiated with those goals in mind.” Leach, C.B. and Windeler, E.L. “New Pontiac V-8 Engine.” SAE Transactions Volume 63, 1955 [Paper delivered to SAE annual meeting in Detroit, 12 January 1955].
