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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  Good Bargain, Reliable. Style - 1996 Pontiac Grand AM
  By big-G - March 9 - 10:26 pm

  I bought it with 94,000 and now have 115,000. The 2.4L DOHC 4 cylinder motor has great low end aceleration and great high end tourqe. No maintenance other than routine and an 0-2 sensor which was only 70 dollars and isnt an urgent problem. The car does have the tendency to overheat after longer rides with the A/C on, but what car wouldnt after so many miles. The exterior is very sporty looking and stylish for the price. The interior is comfortable but can feel a little cramped for the front passenger. Also, the car could have a little higher quality door panels etc. they tend to rattle and may feel a little "cheap". decent stock sound. great handling and cornering. Awesome speed for its class.

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  One great car (3.4 L V-6 GT1) - 2002 Pontiac Grand AM
  By OPstud326 - March 7 - 5:50 pm

  So I have to say this car rocks. I did a little modifying to the engine like put in a better air intake, put on high performance tires, and a different exhaust. The manual says that it started with 17 hp but with all my work it is probably around 225 hp now. I have ot say it is super fast. It is auto but when I drop it into first and work it like a stick I can pull a 5 second 0-60. My top end I actually beat a v8 camaro from 60-120. It is a great ride. The only complaint is in the manifold the gaskets keep breaking. They are cheap and plastic surrounded by metal so they will break in all of your cars promise. But take good care of ur car and I guarantee ur car will return the favor. Good buy

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  The Grand Am GT is AWESOME!! - 2003 Pontiac Grand AM
  By Tweety - March 5 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle drives like a dream. Its very easy to handle.

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  96 Grand Am disappointing - 1996 Pontiac Grand AM
  By Ken Stufflebeam - March 4 - 1:33 am

  I bought this car for my teenage sons to drive, 98k, SE model, 4-door, 4 cyl, auto. Thought it would be economical and practical transportation. Trans failed at 108k, no heater now - core failure, many repairs required, gas mileage not great for a 4 cyl, 21 city 26 hwy, squeeks, creaks, rattles. In all fairness it was worn out when I got it and you get what you pay for.

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  Dont do it - 2002 Pontiac Grand AM
  By rodeo3829 - February 28 - 10:53 pm

  I am writing this in order to save at least one person from my experiences with this car. It has been in and out of the shop since purchasing. The car only has 60,000 miles and just this year alone I have put in 2000.00 in repairs, not maintenance but repairs. The car has always been maintained to OEM specifications. The engine light is back on again, that will probably be another 1000.00 Oh and the cruise control light comes on even when the cruise is not on. It goes through brakes every 30,000 all around. Run as far and as fast as you can from this car.

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  Manual Transmissions Are Better - 1998 Pontiac Grand AM
  By garfieldfreak_69 - February 27 - 10:00 am

  I learned to drive a maunal on my car. I first had a 1997 Grand Prix. I loved it because it was big and easy to drive, but now I love my 1998 Grand Am because its just right. Its not tiny and its not too big. Its also loads of fun to shift through town. My car only breaks down because my cousin owned it first in New York and never washed the under carriage.

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  A decent car for the money - 2003 Pontiac Grand AM
  By mfish - February 24 - 8:56 am

  Bought this car 6/2005, and have 52,000 miles currently. Have the rarer 5-speed, 4 cylinder. Very good on gas; get 31 mpg on highway. Seats are comfortable for long trips too. Engine is peppy and spirited with the 5-speed, which is more in keeping with Pontiacs history. The engine, however, is a little growly (quieter on my Escape). Car is very reliable and have no leaks or major issues. My car has had two issues other owners have complained about: Turn signal stalk needed replacing because it would click after turn, and seams on bottom of all doors needed to be sealed and painted because of rust. Interior build quality not as good as newer GM vehicles. Overall, a good car for less money.

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  GM - NEVER AGAIN! - 1999 Pontiac Grand AM
  By "PATTY" OLOUGHLIN - February 23 - 10:00 am

  VEHICLE NOT BUILT FOR ENDURANCE. PURCHASED IN 12/98. AT 38,000 MILES THE TRANSMISSION WENT. GM’S ANSWER- “YOU SHOULD HAVE PURCHASED THE EXTENDED WARRANTY!” NUMEROUS PROBLEMS WITH THE BRAKING SYSTEM THOUGHT THE LIFE OF THE AUTO. AFTER 3 YEARS AND 120,000 THE ENGINE SEALS WENT RESULTING WITH WATER IN THE OIL. TRADED FOR ANOTHER MANUFACTURER AND GM WILL NEVER SEE ME AGAIN!

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  Worst car I ever owned - 1999 Pontiac Grand AM
  By ManofSteel - February 23 - 10:00 am

  We bought our Grand Am new in 99. Had troubles with it from the very begining. Brakes seemed to wear out almost endlessly. Had to replace a caliper just after warrany was up. Wheel bearings needed replaced in the second year wich is just ridiculus. Power widows on each side needed to be replaced twice. Also had to have the car stero CD replaced twice due to malfunction. the ride was very sloppy and bumpy. Engine noise was noticable. Just not a very good car.

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  Quick but not worth it - 2000 Pontiac Grand AM
  By DJR - February 20 - 4:56 pm

  Purchased the GT with the Ram-air V6. Ill never forget how fun it was the 1st time I test drove it. Im a sucker for fast acceleration, and that alone attracted me enough to fork out the 3100.00 price. It wasnt long though before realizing what every one else does. Its an electrical nightmare and found out recently the 1998-2000 models have been known to catch fire without even being started (DO NOT PARK NEAR HOUSE) The cheap plastic control knobs break easy in cold weather. The CD players are famous for flashing "error messages" and quit working around 120,000 miles. Blown head gaskets are very common around 90- 100,000 miles. So yes, it looks good, drives tight but I wouldnt buy another!!