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 lot of Mechanical Problems - 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
By vgopaul - February 13 - 5:16 amI have had this car for going on four years. My driver side motor window went out, I have had to replace the timing belt, ball joints, get a new radiator, replace my entire power steering, heater coil, rocking pena (however thatÂ’s spelled), not to mention typical ware and tare on the car such as brakes (which I expect to pay for). I couldnt believe it because I take really good care of that car. I had a Pontiac before this and experienced the same problems. I will never by a GM product again. It is a very nice car, but mechanically it has costs me thousands. My entire family buys Pontiacs, but after two experiences like this in a row- it behooves us to purchase these vehicles.
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Problem Car - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
By suzid - February 11 - 10:00 amThe car has been in the shop every month for the last six months for something different every time. And it was in the shop at least every three months before that, once the warranty ran out.
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Power for cheap, crap reliability - 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Neil - February 9 - 8:33 pmWhen I purchased this car in 03 with 40,000 miles on it, it was about 5 years old. Being a GM car, I expected it to run into some nickel-and-dime type problems, but got more than I bargained for. I was told that the 3800II engine was ultra-reliable, but came to learn that from 97-99 roughly, the plastic intake manifold was suspect to cracking and coolant leaks, leading to VERY expensive repairs. Read below for specific problems/etc.
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Last year 2008 GP GXP goes out Winner! - 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix
By 69Judge - February 8 - 5:30 pmThese GP GXPs are a terrific value right now. Very stylish inside and out. It is a blast to drive the V8 is strong and produces a great exhaust tone on the road, it handles the road with ease all instrumentation is easy to read and driver friendly. Everyone loves te suede leather bucket seats they are really comfortable. I have plenty of head/leg room. The 18 inch rims really make the car stand out in the parking lot. The GXP makes driving fun again, sporty with V8 power to match and all the extra options youd expect from a luxury car. The 05-08 GXPs(14,800) are one of the automotive industrys best kept secrets!! Im very, very happy with mine.
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Dependable and fun to drive - 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
By rab61384 - February 7 - 10:00 amMy GP has treated me well. No engine problems after 4 years and 60k. However, my fuel economy is nowhere near what some other people are saying. For purely around town driving, it gets around 16. However, highway-only fuel economy is excellent at 30. Car handles well with plenty of power. Some of the interior components are cheap. Like some others, the door panels have started to get loose, and power windows seem to be slowing down a lot now. Seats could be a little more supportive for a long drive. Overall though, it has been a positive driving experience and the car has gotten me through many snowstorms safely.
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Love my GTP - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
By nolaCreoGirl - February 7 - 10:00 amGreat car and very fun to drive. I have the new supercharged engine and I tell ya its great for those pick up moments.Very reliable no problems with her yet.
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Seven-Year Review - 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Denver Area Owner - February 6 - 4:20 amMy 1997 SE sedan has 85K miles and other than annoying radio/clock display failures, I am amazed that I have had no structural or mechanical issues. None. Gas mileage hovers around 22MPG mixed city/highway. My 3.8-litre engine purrs and still has getup when I need it, even with AC cranked. Transmission still works smoothly thru the gears. The tan cloth upholstery fabric hasnt held up all that well, and the interior ceiling fabric is pulling away along the top of the rear window. Bottom line: Ive been car payment free for over two years and still have a reliable and reasonably good-looking ride. Until any serious difficulties arise, Ill just keep banking those potential payments.
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My New Baby - 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
By sweetsie619 - February 2 - 1:23 pmThis is the best car i will ever own and it is so fast. the handling is just amazing. And the are so many customizations that look great on the car. Rims, hood, spoiler, all of it looks great.
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What a disappointment! - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Cooper - January 30 - 8:20 pmI have had nothing but problems with this vehicle. It has been to the Pontiac service department 16 times and counting. The defroster does not function properly, which ahs been acknowledged by the dealership. They say it is the same on all Grnad Prixs - it is "normal." The dealership is unable to repair problems without numerous visits. What a disappointment this car has been!
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Too Many Poor Quality Parts - 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Tom Shay - January 30 - 4:20 pmBought it new as a leftover. Ran great until about 70,000 miles, then things started to go. Front wheel bearing failed and needed wheel replacement. Pitted brake disc. 2 Failed speed sensors. Failed AC compressor. Even the radio display failed so I cant see the time or station. Failed transmission solenoid is in such a difficult location, it takes 5 mechanic hours and more than $750 to replace.Ive driven other brands over 150,000 miles without these failures.
