Overview & Reviews

For much of its modern history, Pontiac has been home to legendary cars like the Firebird and GTO. With such dedication to raciness, it might seem a bit odd that when it came time for Americans to buy a Pontiac for much of the 1980s and '90s, they overwhelmingly chose the Grand Am, a car that wouldn't know a smoky burnout from a backyard barbecue.

Although the Pontiac Grand Am blipped into existence during the 1970s, it's the unassuming and over-styled family sedan from more recent decades that most people are probably familiar with. Within Pontiac's lineup, the Grand Am slotted one or two rungs up from entry-level. It featured an attractive price, just enough space for four average-sized adults, and four-cylinder or V6 power.

This was a good enough combination for many people, and Pontiac further expanded the Grand Am's visibility by selling heavily to rental car fleets. However, we were never particularly impressed by the car. Our first hands-on experiences were with the mid-'90s models, and we found them to be uncomfortable, unrefined and lacking in handling ability. More recent models didn't fare much better. Looking to ditch the car's "Bland Am" image, Pontiac eventually replaced the Grand Am with the superior G6 in 2005.

Widely available and convincingly inexpensive, used Grand Ams are adequate enough in most respects to be worth considering for a small family car. Just know that there have always been plenty of offerings in this segment, and many of them will likely prove to be more rewarding to own.

Most Recent Pontiac Grand Am

The last-generation Pontiac Grand Am was produced from 1999 through 2005. It was larger than the previous model, and a more rigid platform combined with a new multilink rear suspension provided better ride and handling characteristics. Sedan and coupe body styles were offered, and both initially came with either a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 150 horsepower or a 3.4-liter V6 with 170 hp. All early models had a four-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels.

The Grand Am's basic trim lines were SE and GT, though both contained submodels (SE, SE1, SE2, GT, GT1) with slight variations. The basic SE came with 15-inch wheels, antilock brakes, air-conditioning, radio and power door locks. The SE1 added power windows, a power seat, cruise control and folding rear seat, while the SE2 added the V6 engine, 16-inch wheels, speed-sensitive power steering, an upgraded stereo, steering-wheel audio controls and keyless entry.

The V6-powered GT added "Ram Air" hood scoops for 5 extra hp (175 total), more aggressive gearing, four-wheel disc brakes, a stiffer suspension and exterior styling add-ons like a spoiler and ribbed body cladding. The GT lost some of the items added by the SE2, but Pontiac reinserted them for the top-of-the-line GT1 and then topped it off with a sunroof.

The Pontiac Grand Am came closest to its sport sedan aspirations when equipped with the V6. The tires, brakes and steering upgrades that came with this engine helped as well, and the stiffer-sprung GT cured the SE's excessive body roll. On the downside, both engines were rough and unrefined, and the steering and brakes were rather uncommunicative. Finally, overall mileage with the V6 was below average.

Admittedly, the greater point of contention was the Grand Am's overwrought and unappealing styling. Much of the garishness could be avoided by selecting one of the SE models, but all Grand Ams shared the same interior that was marred by deeply recessed instruments and bulging components. In addition, the seats were mounted a bit too low and thus not all that comfortable, and overall interior materials quality was lacking. A marginal frontal-offset crash test score from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety was a further point of concern.

Overall, competitors like the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima were better cars at the time thanks to their superiority in terms of refinement, interior design and V6 power. But if you are set on a Grand Am, there are a few changes to look out for. A year after the car's debut, Pontiac made a five-speed manual transmission available with the four-cylinder engine. In 2002, the old 2.4-liter engine was replaced with new 2.2-liter "Ecotec" that traded 10 horsepower (down to 140) for better fuel economy. And in 2005, the only Grand Ams on sale were GT coupes; sedans had already been supplanted by the Pontiac G6.

Past Pontiac Grand Am Models

The previous-generation Grand Am was sold from 1992-'98. Both the sedan and coupe came in SE and GT trim lines. The SE started with little besides power steering, a radio and antilock brakes. The GT added a firmer suspension, 16-inch alloy wheels and some aero cosmetics. Air-conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a tilt steering wheel, upgraded stereos and cruise control were optional on both trim levels. Quicker variable-assist power steering was available on GT models.

The greater differences were in powertrain availability. Grand Am SEs started with a 115-hp, 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a three-speed automatic. GTs were equipped with a high-powered version of that engine that cranked out 170 hp. A medium-powered, 155-horse version of the four-cylinder and a 160-hp 3.3-liter V6 (with considerably more torque) were optional across the board.

The Pontiac Grand Am got many substantial changes over the coming years. For 1994, Pontiac added a driver's airbag and a new 155-hp, 3.1-liter V6 paired to a four-speed automatic. The following year, all three four-cylinders were dropped in favor of one heavily revised one with 150 hp and far smoother operation (thanks to balance shafts). A styling revision came for 1996, as did dual airbags and further powertrain updates.

There were glaring flaws endemic to this generation. The standard steering setup was heavy, numb and slow, and SE models had subpar grip around corners. Ride quality managed to be both soggy and harsh, and the Grand Am's body structure flexed over common bumps.

The interior was similarly miserable. The overly low seats created the impression of sitting on the floor. Further, their thin padding offered minimal back and thigh support, while the backseat was a squeeze even for two.

We see little reason to look at this older-generation Pontiac Grand Am as a used car purchase, especially when other mid-1990s cars like the Ford Contour and Nissan Altima proved more entertaining, comfortable and well-designed in nearly every way. For those determined to buy a Grand Am from this era, models built from 1996 onward are the best picks. Only by then did all engines run acceptably smoothly and come with more efficient four-speed automatic transmissions. Try to find a sample with the more responsive variable-effort power steering -- it was a package option typically bundled with power accessories and cruise control.

User Reviews:

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  Nice Car - 2004 Pontiac Grand AM
  By montrose - May 2 - 1:30 am

  After driving larger vehicles for many years I found this car fun to drive and very economical. May 2006 when I bought it gas was around $3 gallon. Shortly after buying it I drove from Michigan to Houston and got 34-36 miles per gallon. City driving I get 20-22 mpg, not bad and its fun to drive.

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  Nothing but problems - 1999 Pontiac Grand AM
  By Dam Grand - May 1 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive but the car had problems from the beginning. The tires went flat. Radio stopped working. Cooling system had several issues, the last being a leaking intake manifold. Drivers side power window need replaced. And several other little things.

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  AMAZING first car. - 2001 Pontiac Grand AM
  By MikeD - April 25 - 5:43 am

  If youre thinking of getting an affordable car, then I would definitely put a Pontiac Grand AM on your list. This car is a speed demon, just to warn, the acceleration takes some getting used to at first, but once youve driven it enough, it gets easier. This car is a champion to me, and Ive only had it for 2 days. If you can find one for a good price tag, then its a steal. This is the perfect first car, it is sharp and not tacky or too sophisticated at all. Runs great, sounds quiet, handles well and easily. Shocks absorb any road divots or potholes, just be on the look-out for them though, never know where you will find one, especially in states with a lot of un-paved streets. A+ car!

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  red rocket - 2000 Pontiac Grand AM
  By Paul - April 22 - 11:43 pm

  Bean a great car . had problem with E- Vac sensor. took months to figure out. brakes used to squeak and sounded like scaping backing out of driveway cold in the morning ONLY. Fine when warm. Great sound system. Been a very good car - sharp looking car. very well kept .super clean inside and out. and clean engine.

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  This car is the fwd car Ive ever onwed! - 2002 Pontiac Grand AM
  By Chris Circe - April 17 - 2:00 am

  Let me start by saying, I LOVE THIS CAR! This car is great. I have had no problems with it. Its only been in the shop for a scheduled oil change. I just love the design of the car. The aggresive look, and the torquey Ram Air V6. If you are loking in to buying this car, you must. It will be the best money you will ever spend on a car. If you do by get the GT.

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  great car - 2000 Pontiac Grand AM
  By tim - April 9 - 5:03 pm

  i bought this car with 6000 miles on it in 2000 and i have never hade any problems with this grand am i drive about an hour somedays to work and its very comfortable for me very easy to us all function in the car. i also have a 2004 ford explorer and rather drive the grand instead of that.

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  Reliable fun car for the price - 1995 Pontiac Grand AM
  By luckyintx - April 7 - 5:33 pm

  my 1995 Grand Am was bought brand new 09/95. The olive green metallic color was beautiful, still havent found a car with that nice a shade of green. Overall the car was used to go back and worth 30 minutes on highway miles to work. went many long distance vacations in it ( above 400-500 miles) 2-3 times a year. The only major problem that the car ever had was the overheating problem that this car does seem to incur a lot Ive noticed. But mechanically it never gave me any other problems. admitting the car was ugly without the spoiler, I loved it Changed oil every 3K, kept it clean, and ended up having it 7 years at 168,000 miles. One of the best vehicles I have had, still miss it!

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  good grandam - 2001 Pontiac Grand AM
  By gmguy - April 6 - 5:46 pm

  Very solid car that runs great, only problems so far were covered under warranty. The starter was getting weak, and it is fine since replacement. Also, the a/c compressor was starting to lock up, causing the belt to smell, it is also working great since replacement. Overall a good looking and comfortable ride we are happy with.

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  Reliable, economical car - 1998 Pontiac Grand AM
  By Karen - April 6 - 3:43 pm

  Ive had this car since it was new and have never regretted the purchase. It has only required general maintenance and some tires, belts and hoses - which dont last forever. The only thing I dont like is the fact the engine runs hot when driving slow in heavy traffic - this car likes to keep moving.

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  good car - 1997 Pontiac Grand AM
  By troy - April 2 - 1:10 am

  I have had this car around for awhile. It has 240,000 miles on it,3.1v6. Had the water pump replaced at 230,000 and new intake manifold gaskets last week. Cant complain about that after this many miles.Basic maintenance items shocks struts, tune ups, fluid changes brakes etc. Still runs great and looks good.