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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I hate to see it go - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Mandee - Pittsburgh - June 22 - 10:33 amI have had this car 4.5 years and have loved every minute of it. I have two kids so the 90 degree back doors are great! The performance, acceleration, and interior are wonderful. I would like a higher roof line though. My husband is 63" and hates sitting in the front seat. But it is my car!
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Got a good one - 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Terry - June 8 - 6:33 pmBought this car new in November of 1997 and for the most part has been a very good car. I have 104K and all of the electronics, HUD, windows etc. are still working as new. Leather seats are in good shape. Still has decent power and comfortable to drive. When I test drove this vehicle I punched it down the length of the on-ramp of the freeway, bought it then and there! Repairs to date have been a new water pump and AC compressor (I live in Phoenix) and valve cover gaskets. I have a slight oil leak from the oil pan gasket but will probably just let it be. I like others love the HUD and controls on the steering wheel. I would gladly pay extra for these features on any car.
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New Beginnings - 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Prin - June 8 - 1:30 pmI havent had my car long, but I have enjoyed every minute of it. It rides very smooth, has great "get up" and just feels wonderful. I am very happy with my purchase.
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GTP Fun Car - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Rich-In-MA - June 8 - 10:00 amI recently took delivery of this new- to-the-market 04 GTP/Comp-Pkg Silver/Graphite vehicle. I traded in my 97 GTP. I got all the options minus chrome-wheels & side-airbags. This car handles MUCH BETTER than my 97. The suspension is totally new. The car corners FLAT like a sports car. Acceleration is improved, and brakes perform very linearly w/o nose- dive. My 97 had few problems in 92K miles, and I expect to get even better results with this car. Bravo Pontiac!
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80% more Fun! - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Rexorg - June 8 - 10:00 amPontiac has another winner with the 2004 Grand Prix. I have a GTP with the Comp G package. This is one great value for the money. Had a 2001 GTP, and there is no comparison. Everything is better. Front end styling takes a little getting used to. All and all Pontiac will sell thousands of GPs.
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Pontiac Love - 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Joe - May 30 - 9:56 pmLove this car to death. Ive had it just over 3 years now and have not had a single issue with it yet. The only money I have had to put into the car has been for gas, oil and the other liquids.
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Holds the road like a magnet. - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By fixpipes - May 28 - 10:00 amIm very happy with the quality of the car. The fit and finish is excellent. The handling and horse power provide a thrilling driving experience. I feel very safe and in control with this car, especially in adverse weather. I think you get a lot for your money with this car.
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600 miles to a full tank of gas - 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix
By dcharger - May 27 - 10:58 amlove the car, got 209,000 miles on it now,,car was great on gas, but now have trans problem, and some motor problem, but after running it and dumping money in it, i still like it,, but like everything, it dont last forever, smooth ride, never cared for GMs, but this was the only good car i think they made, well thats that
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2004 Pontiac Grand Prix GT2 - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Jgordon05 - May 22 - 2:00 amThe first time I saw this car it was awesome and totally redesigned inside and out. The interior is updated to todays standards. The plastic is covered up in the front and the back. The sound system is the cheaper one but still sounds awesome. The leather is firm and takes time getting used. The steering wheel and the controls are great. Overall very nice car.
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Fun to drive! - 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
By GPFan - May 21 - 10:00 amMy car has about 85,000 miles on it. The performance, comfort, and styling in general are great. However, even though Ive taken excellent care of my car, Ive had around 3,000 in general repairs over the past year. My headlight lenses went 1st - Apparently the glue used to hold them on the headlight assembly dry rots, and they can fall off. But, you cant buy just the lenses. The blower motor and resistor - for the interior vents needed replacement. Also, about a month ago, my brake calipers went bad in front. At present, its in the shop getting its transmission fixed, and the upgraded parts - which is by no means cheap. I dont want to scare anybody, the cars really been great.
