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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Looking for a reason to drive... - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
By SuprChrged 05 GTP - October 20 - 10:10 amI have owned my 05 GTP for almost a month now. The handling is superb, makes going through highway curves at 70 mph a breeze. Engine is very responsive, supercharged power is there when you need it most. Performs well for such a heavy vehicle. The interior leaves much to be desired. The inside compared to competitors is dated. The exterior design had to grow on me a bit. Overall this car is fun to drive, sometimes leaves me looking for a reason to find somewhere else to go.
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My new ride - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Tony A. - October 18 - 4:26 pmThis is the third Pontiac Ive owned and it easily outclasses all the others in all-around performance. Not as fast or cool as the Trans-Am I drove in the 80s, but a lot more useful and quiet for long highway trips. The 3800 V-6 is dead reliable and the ride is firm yet comfortable. The front buckets are a bit tight for persons of girth but the leather/vinyl is very attractive. My wife drives a Grand Am and constantly wants to switch cars with me. I suppose one can call it an average mid-size sedan with solid reliability but thats not intended to be a criticism. It does exactly what I expect it to do: carry me around in style without breaking the bank and making me look like an old fart.
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This car has been great to me. - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
By seiichi79 - October 1 - 1:43 pmThis car definitely served its purpose. Have 3 kids now so Im going to have to get rid of it. Which kinda stinks. Even though I can fit 3 car seats in the back its a little squished. Great power and pedal response. Lots more interior room than you would think just by looking at it and a lot of trunk space. The only problem I have had with it was the front brake rotors were warped when I purchased it but it only cost about $175 to have them fixed. Other than that this car has been awesome.
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i got a lemon - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
By aaron - September 27 - 10:38 pmi bought the car bran new in 06 the car was great but at 60k miles the transmission went out first time left me stranded 50 miles out of town, sents then ive had replaced the trasmission its gone out 3 more times up to now it has 210,000 miles not to mention i had the motor rebuilt 2 times as well. on that note the car is only worth $4,500 and i have well more money in repair costs than its worth now but when its not breaking down i really love the car
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Love my GT - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Gary - September 27 - 7:20 pmI bought my GT 4dr in Sept. of 2001. All 165,000 miles are mine. I have all service records, the car has been excellent. The only problem has been two power window motors, the dash cluster went out and had to replace the fuel sensor in the gas tank. Other than that all has been routine. I still own and love to drive the car.
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expensive to drive - 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
By rctrey - September 27 - 2:00 amwater pump 550$ window reg $450 front valve cover gasket leaks supercharger noisy smells like burning oil at 65000 miles.
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Great performance for the buck - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By db - September 27 - 2:00 amI moved from an 8 cyl Llincoln LS to this model in order to save money, gain some winter driving performance and not loose the fun. However, you do have to give up a fair amount of luxury also. I also believe that a $30,000 car should have the basic self-dimming rear view mirror, heated side mirrors and climate control. A power passenger seat would also be appreciated; at least offer these as added cost options for those willing to pay. The back seat is also not too comfortable and without any cup holders; luckily I do not have to ever sit back there! With all the rebates and technology is is a good value for the buck.
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speed meets comfort - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By pnehls - September 27 - 2:00 amWe popped the hood on the trunk, four of my buddies huddled over the engine. I put it in neutral and revved it (it limits the revs in park) What happened next was amazing. the whole engine torques and jerks. this engine is a monster. this cars accel is not too fast of the line, but from 30-70, it is amazing. when you are going 45 it feels like you are going 10. this car needs speed, and if you dont intend to do some highway traveling, you better find an outlet for this cars inner beast. this is like strapping a jet engine to a lazyboy, this cars amazing ride combined with unbelievable power makes it a great choice for any one looking at a mid size sedan
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2004 Pontiac Grand Prix GT2 - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By DUb - September 27 - 2:00 amWow, this car was a great improvement to the last model. This car blew me away when i first saw it. Although the cars interior is a little touchy. Ive had the car for less than a year and the paint from the steering wheel is already starting to rub off. Performance is great though overall, and i am pleased with the way it handels and overall comfort, except if your in the backseat and your over 13 years old.
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great car - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By bzszbzbz - September 27 - 2:00 amwhat a great performance car. the handling and power are awesome. it grabs corners like a sports car and has exceptional power passing and taking off. the leather interior is sporty and classy. very well done. workmanship is also a 10! why drive an import when you get everything you could want from a great american ca
