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 Totally DIG this car! - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
By California Boy - March 17 - 1:16 pmWow. I was going to buy an Acura and on a complete whim I tried this Grand Prix. THIS AINT NO RENTAL CAR!!! This thing is fast, smooth and very quiet. Better than an Acura or Audi in my opinion. Snotty Beverly Hills people might not drive one, but that is their problem! Excellent Job, GM!
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Watch Out For Falling Headlights - 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Polskiguy - March 14 - 10:00 amI have owned my 1997 Grand Prix GT since 1996 when it first came out. Since then I have had to replace the headlight lens 3 times because it gets water leaks inside and it falls off. I have also had major problems with the rear main seal leaking oil. I had to replace that also which is a major job and very expensive. Also replaced 2 water pumps and alternater. Replaced front struts and mounts at about 100,000 miles.
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My Favorite Car - 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix
By BryanSwann - March 14 - 10:00 amStill drives smoothly after almost 4 yrs of ownership. Only major repair was rotor replacement on front of car due to wear. With TLC along the way, the car still runs and looks like it did when I drove it off the dealer lot.
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grand prix rocks!!! - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By bandit64 - March 14 - 10:00 amThis is everything ive ever wanted in affordability, and comfort, and performance what a car, if this is the beginning of THE NEW GM, watch out whata great start!!!!!
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Stay Away!! from Pontiac. - 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Darin - March 14 - 5:03 amI bought my 98 Grand Prix GT off my parents in 2004 for $8000 it only had 58,000 on in. Then I drove it cross country. It was ok untill every electric thing you can think of failed!! I havent been able to see what time it is and the Heads up display "caught on FIRE" kind of.. there was smoke coming out of my dash! Then soon afterward I rolled down my driver side window and it didnt go up! I took it to the dealer and they rolled all 3 remaining windows and they WOULDN"T GO UP EITHER. So now I made the dealer fix the other 3 for FREE!!! Because I only came in there for the driver window. Now the MPH and Temp displays come on when they want to and flicker!
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Give American a Break! - 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Bryant - March 11 - 11:30 pmGranted this is a front wheel drive with 303 HP and paddle shifters on an automatic. But this is one fun car to drive, and on road trips, it is delightful. Even the fuel economy is good. First, it burns regular gas, second it has the fuel saving engine and at road speeds, 4 cylinders shut down and seamlessley start up again when you hit the accelerator. With Stability Control, Magni Steer, and Full Time traction control, Plus the fantastic Heads Up Display, this is a safe car to drive. Just listen to the sound of the Small Block V-8, and you want to ride all day. Gas mileage, I am heavey footed but still getting 25 in Hiway, and 17 to 20 in mixed. That is 400 miles on a tank of gas. Try it!
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Great 4-Door Supercharged Fun - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Joe D. - March 8 - 2:00 amI purchased the 2004 Grand Prix GTP Comp G. If you have the money spring for the Comp G. A lot of fun to drive. Excellent exceleration, good looks and great stereo. Have always bought Pontiacs and this is a huge step in the right direction over the 2003 model. Now if Pontiac would just drop in a six speed stick. Fuel for the Soul.
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04 Grand Prix GTP - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Sherri1 - March 8 - 2:00 amGreat car. Excellent handling. I have had no problems what so ever with this vehicle.
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Last of the classic Grand Prixs... - 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Russ - March 5 - 2:00 amThe GTP coupe is truly the last of the classic Grand Prix line.Nothing against sedans,but this is the best looking model since the 70s.At 3,500 lb it has the weight to match the 240 hp/280 ft.lb.supercharged 3.8L engine.Feels like the classic performance models of 60s.At 73,000 miles theres been no major problems except a dead battery and dry-rotted tires.Slight oil seepage but that happens at higher mileage. Gas mileage isnt that bad for a supercharged engine, using premium actually gives it better mileage, go figure. Nice leather interior, drivers seat is comfortable when finally dialed in. Overall a sharp, solid car.
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Great car - 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
By Ken79 - March 1 - 2:00 amI just bought a new 04 grand prix. This is the second one I have owned. It is a very fun car and has impressed me very much. It has a sporty feel and look to it with the power to back that look up. It also is comfortable and can make a nice family car. The price of the car by far beats Chevy cars and your getting the same engine. I think you get more for your money on this car anyway. My only negative remark from my experience is about my dealership. But as far as the car you cant go wrong on this one.
