Acadian was a brand name used by General Motors of Canada from 1962 to 1971, primarily marketed through Pontiac-Buick dealerships. The brand was initially based on the Chevrolet Nova and featured distinctive Pontiac styling elements, including a split grille. The first models introduced in 1962 included the base-line Invader and the more upscale Beaumont.
In 1963, the Acadian lineup expanded to include a new model that offered a 4637 cc V8 engine, while the Beaumont, which was based on the Chevrolet Chevelle, was available in five body styles and four engine options. During this period, Acadian models captured a significant share of the market, accounting for over 70% of sales compared to their Chevrolet counterparts.
From 1965 to 1969, the Beaumont was marketed as a separate line, leading to the establishment of Acadian-Beaumont-Pontiac-Buick franchises. Approximately 70,000 Beaumonts were sold during its six years of production. However, the Acadian line saw its last Canadian-built models in 1967, after which production shifted to Willow Run, Michigan. The Acadian brand was discontinued in 1971, with the Pontiac Ventura taking its place on the assembly line.
The Acadian name was briefly revived in 1975 for a badge-engineered version of the Chevrolet Chevette, marketed in Canada as the Pontiac Acadian. This later model was not a standalone marque but rather a model variant, and it remained in production until 1987.
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