Optional engines included a 389 cubic inch V8 with a 4-barrel carburetor, rated at 280 horsepower at 4800 RPM and 415 lb-ft of torque at 3600 RPM, and a 421 cubic inch (6.9L) V8 with a 4-barrel carburetor, rated at 325 horsepower at 4400 RPM and 480 lb-ft of torque at 3200 RPM.
The top speed of a 1965 Pontiac Catalina wagon with the standard engine and transmission was approximately 105 MPH.