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:
Showing 51 through 60 of 1,601.00-
Great car - 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Jimmy - August 25 - 1:53 amI really like this car very nice inside and out, very strong motor, it looks so agressive for being stock, im going to do a couple of mods to it and its going to look amazing, very well build car GREAT JOB PONTIAC
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Sleeping Giant - 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
By The Reaper - August 24 - 5:56 pmIve owned my GP for about 6 months now and its time to write a review. What can i say about this car except WOW. I got mine for a steal at only $4600. My previous car was a 97 GA with the 2.4, needless to say, there is certainly an increase in power. I absolutley love this car, its fast, handles very well, and looks incredibly mean. freeway driving is a blast, and it only takes a moment for the speedo to jump from 70 to 100, which makes passing a breeze. I have found that working under the hood isnt that bad, much easier than the GA. there are plenty of perfomance parts available, and they are easy to find. best of all, nothing makes my day like annihilating some kid in a boy-racer. LOVE IT!!!
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my car - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By james byrne - August 22 - 2:00 amive waited for this car for 10 years.now that i have it it im glad iwaited .Truly ,the most fun ive had driving an american car.
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Reliable Car - 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix
By samryan - August 21 - 10:00 amWe have had this vehicle for a few years now and have been very happy with it. Only problem we had was the brakes and rotors needed to be replaced (covered under warranty) however, for a car with low mileage and only a two years old, this should not have happened.
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I love this car! - 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
By CJE - August 21 - 2:46 amThis is a great car to drive. I love taking it out on the highway. Even with 99K miles, it still has great pickup and incredible power. The 3.8L engine can really open up on the highway. I have to sell it now to get a car with better gas mileage. But I love it!
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Okay Car - 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix
By 2008 Pontiac - August 20 - 11:06 pmThis is my 4th Pontiac and I do like Pontiacs, but this car has been in the shop for warranty work 3x already, and for other repairs about 2x. Thats a lot for 2 years if you ask me. My last Pontiac went 4 years before I had to repair anything. I am a little disappointed and depending on how many more problems I have, will depend on whether I keep this car or not. If this is all Pontiac has left, then it was time to retire. I have had power steering problems, constant issues with the brakes, wheel bearings have already been replaced and the car has under 50,000 miles. I guess they dont make them like they used to.
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Love it - 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix
By red on the head - August 18 - 10:00 amGoodyear Eagle tires not round, blister on all four. Air distribution inadequate except on mid range and above.
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The best car - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Mike007 - August 18 - 10:00 amThe Grand Prix is a very fun to drive car. This car as really great horse power. Grand Prix rides well and the onstar is handy. It gets me where I Need to go in good time. I think it as a really sporty look for a four door. Every body just looks at you.
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GTP Comp G - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By GTPcompg - August 18 - 10:00 amThis car is a blast to drive!!! The only thing a can say to knock it is the car payment every month. The car I bought has every option that you can get. I would definalty purchase the XM radio option. I wish my other car had it.
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2004 GT2 - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Fred Flinstone - August 18 - 10:00 amI purchased this car via carsdirect.com (a great buying experience) and it was delivered to a dealer in my area. The car was perfect upon arrival. There was (and still is) zero defects with the car. Every part works. This is the first car I have ever bought that I can make that claim with. The car handles exceptionally for its class and is well powered. I have to say, I love it and so does everyone who has been in this car.
