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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Good Car - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
By spd98 - March 17 - 10:00 amI have loved this car although it was abused before I took ownership. With a little bit of work it turned out to be a great car. I am trading it in on a slightly newer GTP model.
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GXP - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
By John - March 10 - 7:50 amI love getting behind the wheel of this thing. The power and sound of the exhaust is so sweet, with the heads-up display and the design of the dash. This powerful sedan will be with me for the next few years guaranteed. I am very impressed with what GM did with the 5.3 liter in their newer cars now. This was an awesome step by G.M.
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Lots of looks - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Larry Carson - March 5 - 8:03 pmI bought my GXP in Octber of 2005. I love this car. I get a lot of looks and finger pointing. My wife said it makes me look and act younger. Very fun car to drive.
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Excellent car at an excellent price - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Vince - March 1 - 6:50 pmI was a very content foreign car owner until I purchased the Grand Prix GT1. The few American cars I had never seemed to peak my interest. Until I saw the Grand Prix. Not only does it have the feel and the ride of a high end luxury car, it grips the road like no other car in its class. The roomy interior and sporty exterior make this car an excellent car at an excellent price!
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my gtp - 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
By chris5 - February 27 - 2:00 ami have owned my gtp for a year and a half now, and i have been extremely happy with my car so far.
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I love it - 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
By bojo - February 27 - 2:00 amThis has been a great car for me and my family...roomy..comfortable...and fast
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Awesome Car - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By mrsfink - February 22 - 10:00 amLove this car! Style, speed and up-to- date features. Comfort is a big asset to this car. Luxury in a Pontiac is all I can say!
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Happy First Timer! - 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Brent - February 21 - 3:23 amThis is the first Pontiac my wife and myself have owned. I can honestly say we could not have chosen a better car for the money. The cars comfort is excellent and interior layout is well thought. The car gives a great ride while hugging the road very well. 200hp gets the job done for the cars size and it seems as though more would be scary to drive. The car is well appointed even at base model. Ours has the premium package with heated leather. So nice! So enough said, well be buying Pontiac again.
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nice! - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
By trunt ozares - February 13 - 2:00 ammy first car and i love it. Great power. The engine could have been a little more technologicaly advanced.
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Love my car! - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Zaida - February 1 - 10:40 amThis is the 2nd Pontiac I have owned. I love this car! It drives great, I havent had any problems, except that the gas mileage isnt all that great. If it were possible, I would def get another. The car is not only comfortable but has a great sound system for being stock and looks nice!
