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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GTP Lover! - 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
By GTPlover! - June 10 - 6:03 amI have owned my GTP for a while now. It is bright red with every option except sunroof. I love it! I would definitaly recommend this car to anybody. I have never had ONE problem with it. The only thing I wanted to replace before it got worse was the tire rod which could happen on any car. The performance is outstanding! Passing power is effortless and cornering is amazing! This car could honestly beat anything out there except for an LT1 or LS1 Camaro or Trans AM. Watch out FORD MUSTANG GT! All in all, if you can find a grand prix gtp, you should HIGHLY CONSIDER buying one! A++++++ PONTIAC!
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amazing 6er - 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
By mat - June 8 - 9:56 amThe comfort level inside the car is amazing I took a lot of team trips where every seat was filled and only the middle back person complained but still appreciated the extra room compared to other cars. This car is good for any age driver everyone could get something good out of it!
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great American design and quality - 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix
By save the brand - June 6 - 2:40 pmI have never been sorry I bought this GM product.Overall reliability has been excellent.The engine has good power and good fuel economy,and it SOUNDS like a real engine. The handling with the low profile tires and alloy wheels is excellent. Ride quality is very good,a bit on the firm side,w/good road feel. This car has never had a 4 wheel alignment and tracks straight as an arrow. No probs with the with the exhaust,battery,or even a belt!I have replaced only 2 components- the gas cap and the blower motor resistor(that was a tough do-it-yourself-job, but I managed).The fit and finish is very good,with virtually no squeaks or rattles in 5+years. &I know my wife is safe in it.I would buy again.
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THE BEST CAR OUT ON THE STREETS!! - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By starr72881 - June 1 - 10:00 amThis is my third GM car since 2001, and this is by far the BEST CAR OUT THERE. I made a very the choice that I HAD TO HAVE THIS CAR after having one as a rental. And I am so happy that I did. The way this car rides is awesome. I suggest that you seriously consider purchasing this car if youre currently searching to buy a car. You will not be disappointed
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grrrreat - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By wnjbrown - June 1 - 10:00 amgreat car,,, very satisfied with price,,,quality,,, performance
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Good vehicle with minor repairs - 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
By jiggles - June 1 - 12:33 amOverall this has been a very good car. Its very comfortable and fun to drive. At about 100,000 miles I had to replace the alternator and water pump. I have also put two driver power window switches in it already. Other than that Ive had no major problems and will buy another Pontiac when I get rid of this one.
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Sporty and comfortable - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
By DIANA WRIGHT - May 31 - 6:06 pmThis car has a lot of power and maneuvers very well with the front wheel drive. It has a sporty appearance but yet roomy on the inside. The front seat is extremely comfortable and there is lots of room in the back seat for 3 more passengers. I also like the easy access to the trunk from the back seat. This is a nice feature for long road trips. We really enjoy our GRAND PRIX we had a GRAND AM for years and were excited to see the GRAND PRIX.
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The Grand Am - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
By jrcunningham - May 29 - 10:00 amThe Grand Am is my favorite car. Im on my 2nd one...the only thing that would keep me from buying a third would be if someone gave me a Firebird. =)
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fast and fun but not perfect - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By adm1972 - May 29 - 9:53 amI bought my 2004 grand prix gt used last winter i had the dash airduct cover replaced because i was warped. It has some interior rattles but other than that it has been a reliable car. The EPA ratting for this car is 20-30 mpg the best i have ever received is 26.7 and i drive it 27 miles to work each day. I personally think that they should change the rating to 19- 27. It is a fun to drive car the seats are a little hard. For pontiac owners it might be ok but im not a true fan of this car. I plan to trade it in on a Chrysler 300 or Dodge Charger next year.
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Never buy another Pontiac - 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Gary Keister - May 29 - 7:00 amLets start out by saying I have been a Chevy/gm person my whole life and grew up in a family the same way. However I am so disappointed in my grand prix at the constant repairs with such low mileage. At 20,000 had the transmission pulled and repaired along with a wiring harness. Soon after the car had a very bad oil leak. Now at 57,000 the abs light is on water pump needs replacing. I have coolant running out and will cost me around $800 because the labor is long . GM decided to make you tear 1/2 the engine apart to do this job. I never thought I would drive anything but gm but I am going to do the thing that bothers me most, buy foreign.
