Pontiac was an American car brand with deep roots, originally stemming from the Pontiac Buggy Company founded in 1893 in Michigan. It evolved into the Oakland Motor Car Company and was acquired by General Motors in 1909. The first Pontiac car debuted in 1926 as an affordable six-cylinder vehicle and quickly gained popularity. Known for innovations like the affordable eight-cylinder engine and distinctive silver streak design, Pontiac reached its peak in the 1960s with iconic muscle cars like the GTO. However, the brand struggled in the following decades due to the oil crisis, quality issues, and declining sales. GM discontinued Pontiac in 2010 during its financial restructuring.