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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Best Car Ever Made - 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Janice - February 25 - 8:23 pmThe 2008 Grand Prix GXP is a blast to drive.this is my 4th Pontiac and are the more reliable cars on the road. Had a 98 Grand Am with over 250,000 on it when I sold it and it was still running a of 2 years ago (lost track of it). I love the power when you step on the accelerator you can feel the gs pulling you back in your seat.S for winter driving I had no problems in the 2009 winter here in the North Idaho. Put 4 studded tires on and went everywhere in 12" of snow and ice. The exterior could use a little more chrome here and there.
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$$$ - 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix
By hunter0562 - February 22 - 1:23 amFun car but everytime I turn around Im putting money into it. Cant keep tires on it and Ive tried different brands. Brakes - reguar maintenance but much more expensive than a regular car. Transmission 1 went out at 84,000. Transmission 2 went out at 120,000 - and I feel the dealer didnt install Transmission 2 correctly (the shift stick was never right) and the dealer didnt do anything for me. Transmission 3 has been great (now at 156,000). Now just had a wheel crack - GM sells them for $700!I found one for $450. Great fun to drive but be aware of high performance car costs.
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Still going! - 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
By jodan29 - February 20 - 10:00 amI cant say enough how I love my 2000 GT and will miss it when I retire it. Almost 300,000 miles and the trans is just starting to worry me. I drive 52 miles one way to work. Have had my share of problems, some covered by warranty others not. Still has the original exhaust and engine. Dont like that the black is a matte black with no sparkle; shows scratches too much. Interior has held up great. All I can say is if you keep it maintained it will not disappoint you. Sad to see Pontiac go under. :(
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Still going strong - 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Silver bullit - February 19 - 11:33 pmThis is my 2nd grand prix. I had my 1st for 125K. This one has 106K so far and I intend to take it to 130K or so. Just like the last one, the acceleration, handling,braking & traction control have always made me feel confident on the road. Some of the cheapisms are getting on my nerves. The maint record has been good, but not stellar. Outside of reg maint, I have replaced a ball joint, valve cover gasket, rr calipers, intake manifold, hood latch, struts and a few switches, seals & sensors in the 7 years I have had it.
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Kind of worried about this car... - 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix
By tina_2 - February 18 - 6:50 amThis is my second Grand Prix. I bought a 98 GT new and kept it until 2007 when I purchased this one preowned. Already having some problems with this one though and it has me worried that it will not last until it is paid off. Problems are with brakes & rotors and currently my blower motor is not working, wont know why until it is checked out Saturday. Pretty good gas mileage for the size of the car and enough power to keep me happy.
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Zoom - 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
By jrp - February 14 - 10:00 amThis car hauls, Looks good , and is a great value.
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40th Anniversary GT - 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Shawn3778 - February 14 - 10:00 amAbout 1800 miles and no complaints. We love this car. The 40th anniversary package really turns heads. I added a gold pinstipe and tinted the windows. It is sweet. Handles and rides great. Pleanty of room I am 64" and have no problem with the interior. Back seats are a little low head room wise. FUN FUN FUN FUN. Buy one if you can find it.
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A "FAN" for GrandPrix... - 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix
By photoguy - February 10 - 9:33 pm3 weeks & 1500 miles of ownership so far & totally satisfied! Looks great on the outside & inside (ivory White) (camel interior)! Nice "stock" sound system & very nice ergonomic & (comfort) features makes this car fun to drive, pleasure to own, cant wait to drive it every day ! Refined powertrain is peppy too! Handling & other features are better than consumer reports "says" they are, (. By the way !). One has to drive this automobile to appreciate it (thank you gm!)
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Fun-to-Drive Affordable 4 Door - 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix
By JayBEE - February 8 - 10:00 amI purchased a 2002 GT Sedan with every option. The GTs 3800 V6 is one of the best engines ever built - great low end torque, good gas mileage and legendary reliability. Add a smooth shifting transimission and sure footed handling, this car eats up the road. Overall quality fit and finish is below most imports, but look at the price....its a great value. Besides, after 8 months and 10K miles, I have had zero problems. Looking for a sporty, affordable 4 door that wont break the bank ? Check out the GP.
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Great Car - 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix
By RodL - February 4 - 10:00 amExcellent Car! Replaced my 1999 Grand Am GT with this car. Very dependable. I receive many great comments on the look of the car. Many passengers are suprised by the great interior room.
