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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Wow!! - 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Amy - December 11 - 2:03 amI bought my Grand Prix 08, last year. My husband took me to a place right off base. And i saw a beautiful white/pearl car staring at me! we have a daughter who is turning 3..and let me tell you.
the car is sooo smooth! everyone who gets in,..their first word is (WoW) this is a smooth car! plus its big enough for a family..yet compact enough to be sporty! my husband loves my car! and my favorite feature is when you first get in, every single detail curves around the driver! I would say, its made to fit you!! Not to mention, in these economic times, we get about 19/24mpg yet its cheaper then the camry and the malibu! -
my gtp - 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
By batmon - December 8 - 10:00 amthis is an awesome car to drive in, it is quick with a dominating roar. the only down side is the power steering is under powered. this is an awesome ride!!!
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smooth and fast - 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix
By squirt03_25 - December 6 - 2:40 pmPurchased mine as a lease turn in with 30,000 miles on it. I now have 45,000 on it and its just as good now as it was then. Very good car for the driving enthusiast or just as a daily driver. Affordable power and handling in a stylish design that is well put together and balanced. Good fit and finish overall. 127 mph top speed is impressive for a sedan.
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Great Experience - 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Happy Owner - December 4 - 3:40 pmBought my car new. It has 147K and I have maintained the oil and usual check up points. The major repair to gasket to oil and then coolant gasket - but only at approx 90K. The rest were all maintain, brakes. Once paid off annual repair bills are around $500. My husband drives a 2001 BMW with 80K - repairs and up keep to his car cost us $7400 last year. Plus he had to replace his AC at 50K for $1500. I have not put anything near that into my GMC. I will keep this car until it doesnt go or significant repair cost hits me.
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losing confidence - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
By loams - December 2 - 2:00 amI bought new and now have 52000 miles. The car is well cared for but have already replaced an alloy wheel, two blower motors, one blower resistor, tensioner bracket (total of about $1100 to date) ans have an on going problem with the a/c drain causing water to flood the front passenger seat carpeting. I think this will be my last Pontiac.
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Love my Grand Prix - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Ken - November 29 - 9:20 amThis is actualy my third Grand Prix and as you can tell, I love the car. Pontiac has always done a great job with these cars in my opinion. The car in fun to drive with plenty of power on California freeways. The styling is great and I love the way the seats wrap around you and hold you in. Not to mention the gauge layout is fantastic! I cant say enough about this car. Too bad GM screwed up and closed Pontiac down. BIG MISTAKE!
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better than other years - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
By dlpVI - November 28 - 3:03 pmthis is the 3rd Grand Prix that I have owned, and I must say that Pontiac got it right this time!! The last Grand Prix that I owned was a 1999 GTP, but this new car rocks. Its fast and rides really nice. The cock-pit is nice and easy on the eyes at night. Everything seems to be in the right place (well other than the dimmer switch). This car was the dealer demo so I got a gr8 deal on it. Was going to buy a Maxima, now that I own this Pontiac, I would not consider owning the nissan now. what more can I say, Ponaic got it RIGHT and now all they have to do is stay there and they will have many happy and loyal customers. I know I will be looking forward to the next new Pontiac to hit the market
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Great Value - 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix
By corvette - November 28 - 1:46 amI love this car. I can not think of a better value. I also own a corvette and like to use my grand prix for long trips. I will get good use of it for 4- 5 years and it will still have a decent life for the next owner. Comparing it to a car like the vette is not fair but dollar for dollar it is work every cent. You get a powerful engine that responds. Decent comfort and great style. Try other cars that are priced the same and the grand prix is at the top of the list.
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Beware of Repairs - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
By WSG - November 24 - 1:53 pmList of problems: EGR value replaced at 40k miles ($410), multi-function switch replaced (for faulty wiper blades) at 43k miles ($530), replaced brake rotors at 44k miles ($300), new catalytic converter and transmission at 53k miles ($4,900). Sorry to say, this has just not been a reliable car at all.
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Had one, BAD IN A CRASH - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By SephirothJenova - November 22 - 10:00 amI had a brand new 2004 model GTP... Got into a crash at 35MPH and burned instantaneously! I think this car needs to be investigated for safety issues!
