Overview & Reviews
The Pontiac Grand Prix started out as a personal luxury car in the early 1960s. Back then, personal luxury meant a big coupe with a big V8 and a stylish interior, usually featuring plush bucket seats and a floor shifter. Exterior design bordered on flamboyant at times, but the Grand Prix made no apologies for its unabashed sense of American style and performance.
In more recent times, the Pontiac Grand Prix offered consumers a sensibly sized family coupe or sedan, with plenty of performance on tap thanks to the availability of peppy V6 engines or even a powerful V8. Styling continued to be a draw, with a sweeping roof line and the signature twin-grille nose. Unfortunately, another hallmark of the Grand Prix was an overly plasticky interior, with various switches and knobs typically rendered in gray plastic that looked more Fisher-Price than General Motors. Pontiac improved the interior toward the end of the Grand Prix's run, but it still couldn't hold a candle to the high-quality interiors of its import-brand rivals.
Would the Grand Prix be a good choice for a family vehicle? That depends on what dad (or mom) wants. If performance is paramount and a smallish backseat is not a problem, then a used GP deserves a look. On the other hand, if high-quality fit and finish and roomy rear quarters are more important, then the import competition will be a better match.
Most Recent Pontiac Grand Prix
The last-generation Pontiac Grand Prix debuted in 2004 and was terminated after 2008. It benefited from a refined engine lineup, fine-tuned ride and handling characteristics and a more driver-friendly cockpit with large gauges and, for the most part, simple controls. The coupe was dropped, leaving the sedan as the lone body style.
There were two trim levels for the Grand Prix's last year of production in 2008 -- base and GXP. The base model came with a 200-horsepower V6 as well as 16-inch wheels, OnStar, a CD player, cruise control, air-conditioning, keyless entry, and power windows and mirrors. The GXP included a 303-hp V8, firmer suspension tuning, performance tires, a head-up display, unique trim and 18-inch alloys. Leather seating and automatic dual-zone climate control were optional.
Performance, even in the base model, was satisfying, and got quite a bit stronger from there. Although the V8-powered GXP provided a thrilling rush of power, torque steer was a problem with this front-drive chassis. Sadly, the abundant power infusion wasn't enough to keep the Grand Prix wholly competitive. Compared to the top sport-oriented sedans, the Pontiac felt unrefined in terms of handling dynamics and cabin fitments.
Prior to the 2008 model year, the last-generation Grand Prix was available in a GT trim level that featured a supercharged 260-hp V6, 17-inch wheels and some features that were options on the base model. For buyers interested in a used Grand Prix, we would recommend the GT over the other trims because of its balance of power, fuel economy and handling.
Past Pontiac Grand Prix Models
The previous-generation Pontiac Grand Prix was built from 1997-2003. Available as either a sleek coupe or a handsome four-door sedan, this Grand Prix offered brisk acceleration and a tight suspension for a relatively affordable price. The supercharged 3800 V6 debuted with this generation (in the GTP trim) and offers a great combination of power and fuel efficiency. Downsides include a somewhat raucous power delivery, a harsh ride over rough surfaces (in GT and GTP models), cheap interior materials and needlessly complex controls. Still, consumers have given this generation high marks in terms of performance, handling, fuel economy and style. It should be noted that this generation's base model had slightly different (and less sporty) front and rear styling from the GT and GTP models.
Prior to that, there was the 1988-'96 generation, available in both coupe and sedan body styles. This car was a bit smaller and its styling went overboard in the body-cladding area. Typical of many GM products, this Grand Prix's strengths lay in its powertrains and performance, while weak points included cheap interior materials, overly busy controls and mediocre rear seat comfort.
From 1978-'87, the Pontiac Grand Prix was offered solely as a personal luxury coupe, which had been downsized from the excessively large cruisers of the '60s and '70s. But like those earlier GPs, this era's priorities were flashy styling and plush interiors. From a collector's standpoint, the 1962-'72 Grand Prix are most worthy of consideration, as powerful engines (such as the 421 V8 with tri-power carburetion) and eye-catching styling make them cruise-night favorites.
User Reviews:
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a must drive - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By thediehler - December 3 - 2:00 ama must drive......a must buy/lease - i have owned/lease a total three pontiac grand prix gts - 1997 - 2000 - 2004. And it has been fun to own and drive.
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2004 Grand Prix CompG - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By robtad - November 29 - 10:00 amThis CompG is definitely a car for the enthusiast like myself. Its fun to drive, fast and the handling is extremely precise and tight, yet not too stiff. They have completely eliminated body roll. I havent driven a car that handles this well since my 1970 Camaro Z28. Actually, the Grand Prix may even be better because of the MagnaSteer and Stabili-track! Im so glad I got the CompG package! I found the leather seats to be of good quality and comfortable especially with the side wings to help hold you in place.
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GT2 - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By rsilverm - November 29 - 10:00 amWhat a wonderful car. GM hit the sweet spot as far as size, power, ride/handling and price.
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Grand Prix - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Jim - November 28 - 9:46 amThis is the second GP I have owned. Both have been excellent cars. I enjoy the performance of the car. There is always power when needed and the car handles well. I need a sedan for family purposes but this car also provides for me the feel of a sports car. I have had no mechanical problems with either of the GPs I have owned. The biggest complaint I have is with the factory tires. Neither GP got more than 25,000 miles from the factory sets.
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Great ride - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Mark - November 28 - 8:56 amCar Is the greatest in this class. Preformance is mind blowing. I have never driven a car in this class with this much power. Extras are just right. handles like a true sports car.
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Pontiac GP 5 year owner - 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
By David - November 28 - 3:26 amThis car has been rock solid and very reliable. The only maintenance items (besides oil changes) have been replacing the battery at 65k, tires at 55k, and front brake pads at 60k. This car has good acceleration, and has averaged 22 25 mpg in stop and go freeway traffic. The best gas mileage I got was 32 when we were heading back from vacation and had a tank full of Nevada gas. It has plenty of room for 4 adults and a child in the middle.
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Love the GXP - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Mackbru - November 22 - 3:33 pmI was quite happy with my 2000 Gran Prix GT until my friend took me for a drive in his new GP GXP! I was blown away. Had been seriously looking at the new Mustang, but no more. Acceleration, high speed driving in all conditions, rain snow,(with winter performance Goodyears Eagle Ultragrip GW3 V rated) even city driving in stop and go traffic, the finesse this car has in stopping, lane changing, accelerating makes even the trip to work in heavy traffic almost enjoyable.
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Just What I Expected - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Ratboyz - November 22 - 10:00 am1,200 miles and still loving my GTP. Just as I expected this baby really scoots and outperforms many imports I tested. I cant say enough about the comfort,style and performance of this car. I am happy with the decision to return to a domestic. If you are considering a Nissan, Acura, Beamer, etc. give this car a try first.
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Not all lemons are in trees - 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Roger Linn - November 20 - 2:00 amI have spent over $4,000.00 fixing air conditioner compressors, engine oil gakets, alternator, heat and air modulator valve, transmission sensors. This car is my wifes car and only has 44,000 miles. Im done with GM. Hell-O Honda.
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This car should be a ten - 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Ryan Wentz - November 20 - 2:00 amI think this car should be a ten because i have not had any prombles with this car it is good for the winter with the traction contral.
