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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Great Design But Cheap Parts - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Bob M. - February 4 - 3:20 amI could not recommend the 2001 Grand Prix. I bought this 2001 Grand Prix Prix GT Special edition after Owning a 1998 Bonneville. I wanted to upgrade to a sportier car, but still needed four doors. I really liked the design and options--it is pretty much loaded but soon experienced many problems. At 35,000 when I bought the car the steering rack had to be replaced. At about 45,000 wheel bearings started to go. Three so far. Along with both front coil springs breaking--one of them twice(GM parts),tie rods, etc. I don`t mind replacing brakes (even those wear out too fast) and normal wear parts, but these other parts should not wear out so fast. The car always starts and the handling is fine.
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A solid, fun car - 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Brian - February 1 - 11:13 pmAn excellent vehicle so far! The 3.8L V6/4-speed auto combination is among GMs most reliable powertrains and provides more than ample power in everyday driving. Power delivery is seamless, and merging onto fast-moving freeways is a breeze. More than enough room for four adults (five in a pinch), and the trunk is large with much usable space. I drove a 2003 Grand Prix 43,000 in 2 years without a single problem, and this ones shaping up to be even better.
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Great adventure companion - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By basshed - January 31 - 4:36 amI bought the GP after outgrowing an eclipse to take on 4-5hr road trips with the gang. Efficency was a must, but I also like some sport with the utility and that all came together at a great price point with this car. I routinely take 5 friends on 3-day weekends with all the gear. Its never short on space or comfort with routine rotation on who sat in back. Mileage exceeds 27mpg always, even fully loaded and its quick and reassuring when pressed hard. Aside from the known hiccups which were fixed quickly and professionally - bouncy headlights notably and the PCM reflash, its been 10K miles of carefree fun-for-5 getaway adventures.
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GREAT CAR - 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Alan - January 30 - 7:26 amThe best car Ive owned in my 63 years of living. Iam 63" tall and have all the room I need. My 100lb German Shepard comes with me on errands and seats clean up easily. Again, great car!!!
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AWESOMEST CAR EVER - 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
By ogr123 - January 29 - 2:00 amI love my car. If I ever get a new car i think i will by the same thing except for maybe next tiem i will get the gt or the gtp model
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Maintenance - 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
By cpuuri - January 27 - 10:00 amOverall, Ive been pretty satisfied with my Grand Prix, but its reliability has been disappointing. Always - rear bushings produce a slight grinding noise on sudden/bumpy stops 30k - power steering broke down when making a tight turn in a parking lot 40-45k - gas gauge started acting up; every 3-6 months, the stereo display scrambles 55-60k - alternator went bad; friend had same prob around same mileage 70k - seal around the oil pan leaks at the rate of 1/2 qt every 3k mi.
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Great car, rear end is ugly though! - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Kmodek - January 26 - 2:06 pmI have an orange 04 GP and I love the way it looks except the rear end and the fact that the body hasnt changed at all since 03. The leather is wearing and I only drive about 3000 miles a year. Stereo is good. Bass is good for a stock cd system Very good handling and control in all weather and the engine can haul a$$ when you need it! The cabin room and design is nice and the trunk is huge (my last car was a Grand Marquis so Im used to lots of trunk space!) I would definitely suggest this car
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Nice Ride - 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix
By n0va - January 25 - 1:56 pmDrives really nice. Gas mileage isnt bad for a 3800 v6. Very nice inside, good trunk space. A good buy if you can get a good deal on it.
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JWs Loaded 2DR 2001 GP GTP - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
By JW 01 GP GTP - January 22 - 4:20 amPurchased the car from a Pontiac Mechanic.Him and his wife loved the car,but wanted an SS.Bought the car with 7,500 miles on it. It was in PERFECT condition, not even a scratch.It was their baby and now its mine. I dont drive it much(company SUV).Ive owned it for 2 1/2yrs and put 23,500 miles on it.The looks of the car are OUTSTANDING.It gets many stares and people ask about it.The sound,feel and torque of the engine is awesome.Competitors cant match it. True,the interior looks cheap,but given the performance,style,sound and reliability of the car, its a small price to pay.Only problem Ive had is the sunroof motor went bad.This is a sweet ride.It looks great in my garage or doing 120 mph.
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2002 Grand Prix GT - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Matt Terpstra - January 21 - 10:00 amthe grand prix gt is an awesome car! its a blast to drive and has great looks. the 3.8L V6 delivers plenty of power and torque.
