Pontiac Grand Prix

The Pontiac Grand Prix is an automobile that was produced by the Pontiac division of General Motors. First introduced as part of Pontiac's full-size model offering for the 1962 model year, the Grand Prix name was also applied to cars in the personal luxury car market segment and the mid-size offering, slotting below the large Bonneville in the company's lineup.

Fourth generation (1978-1987)

1978

1978 brought a downsizing of the Grand Prix and the other A-bodies. This version of the A-body also received some sheetmetal revisions in 1981. The 1978 GP was about a foot shorter and 600 pounds lighter than the 1977 model with an overall length of 200 inches (5,100 mm) and a 108-inch (2,700 mm) wheelbase.

For the first time in Grand Prix history, a V8 engine was not standard equipment. In order to meet Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) mandates set after 1973-74 energy crisis, a Buick-built 231 CID V6 was standard equipment on the base model (formerly the Model J) and two versions of the Pontiac 301 CID V8 (Chevy 305 V8 in California) were optional. The luxury LJ model came standard with the 135 hp (101 kW) 301 V8 with two-barrel carburetor while the sporty SJ was powered by a 150 hp (112 kW) 301 V8 with four-barrel carburetor. A floor-mounted three-speed manual transmission was standard equipment with the V6 on the base model and the three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic was optional. Turbo Hydra-Matic was standard on LJ and SJ models and base models with either of the optional V8 engines. Standard seating choices by model included a notchback bench seat with cloth or Morrokide vinyl in the base GP, a pillowed velour cloth notchback bench seat in the LJ or Strato bucket seats in cloth or Morrokide in the SJ. The Strato buckets were optional on the base GP and a 60/40 split bench was optional on both base and LJ models. Viscount leather upholstery was available with bucket seats on SJ models.

1979

A new crosshatch grille and revised taillight lenses were the only appearance changes made to the 1979 Grand Prix. The same models, base, LJ and SJ continued as before as did the basic engine lineup including the 231 cubic-inch Buick V6 standard on base and LJ models, the 135 hp (101 kW) 301 cubic-inch Pontiac V8 with two-barrel carburetor that was optional on both of those models, and the 150 hp (112 kW) 301 V8 with four-barrel carburetion that was standard on the SJ and optional on the other models. Transmissions remained the same as before with the three-speed manual standard with the V6 engine on the base model and automatic transmission optional. The automatic transmission was standard on LJ and SJ models and all models when a V8 engine was ordered. Again, the Pontiac V8s were not available in California, where they were replaced by Chevy 305s rated at 140 and 160 hp (119 kW). A new and one-year-only option this year was a four-speed manual transmission available with the 301 four-barrel or two barrel V8 on all models. Only 232 4 speed/301 V8 cars were built.

1980

The 1980 Grand Prix returned to a vertical bar grille and featured new taillight lenses with "GP" logos. Automatic transmission was standard equipment on all models and the two-barrel 301 Pontiac V8 was replaced by a new 265 cubic-inch V8 rated at 125 hp (93 kW). The Buick 231 V6 and the four-barrel version of the Pontiac 301 V8 were carried over from the previous year as was the Chevy 305 V8 offered in California.

1981

A minor reskinning of the sheetmetal for improved aerodynamics marked the 1981 Grand Prix along with a new grille design and revised tail section. The sporty SJ model was dropped and a new ultra-luxurious Brougham series was now the flagship of the Grand Prix line. The Brougham models came standard with all power options, a plush cloth interior similar to the full-sized Bonneville Brougham, and a half roof vinyl top with coach lamps. The base and LJ models continued as before. All models now came standard with the Buick 231 V6 with the 265 cubic-inch Pontiac V8 available as an extra cost option (Chevy 305 V8 in California). The 301 V8 was discontinued and a new option this year was the Oldsmobile-built 350 cubic-inch Diesel V8, which was not often ordered due to high cost of around $700 and poor reliability. The year 1981 was also the last for Pontiac Motor Division to offer its own V8 engine due to an emerging GM corporate engine policy that determined Pontiac would build only four-cylinder engines and Buick only V6 engines, leaving Chevrolet and Oldsmobile to build V8 engines for most GM cars and trucks, while Cadillac would produce its own aluminum-block V8 that debuted in 1982. From 1982-on, all V8-equipped Pontiacs were equipped with Chevy or Olds engines.

1982

The 1982 Grand Prix was a virtual re-run of the 1981 model with no appearance changes to note. No gasoline-powered V8 engines were offered this year (in the U.S. only - Canadian GPs were available with the Chevy 305 V8 as an option in '82), leaving only the standard 231 cubic-inch Buick V6, a larger Buick 252 cubic-inch V6 and the Olds 350 Diesel V8. The A-body line became front-wheel-drive, leaving the rear-wheel-drive midsize platform as the G-body. The downsized four-door Bonneville was now related to the Grand Prix. The automatic climate control option was also dropped in 1981, leaving just a manual climate controls on all models. Also most 1982 models had a two tone interior.

1983

1983 Grand Prix models specifically had no hood ornament and trim, and no rear trunk lock cover. One significant engine change to note was the 252 V6 was discontinued and the gas-powered V8 returned after a one-year absence (on U.S. models) in the form of a 150 hp (112 kW) Chevy 305. 1983 also marked the end of the LJ series, as the LE model would be added in 1984.

1984

Some minor changes and revisions marked the 1984 Grand Prix, including a new octangular Pontiac hood ornament, gauges with orange needles and red markings (previous 1978-1983 Grand Prix gauges had white needles), a T-shaped console shifter, an updated bucket seat design, as well as a woodgrain plate above the glove box (previous 1978-1983 Grand Prixs used a black plate). A new optional four spoke steering wheel was also available. The base and Brougham models continued as before but the LJ was replaced by a new LE model. Same engines continued as before including the Buick 3.8 liter (231 cu.-in.) V6, Chevy 5.0 liter (305 cu.-in.) V8 and Olds 5.7 liter (350 cu.-in.) Diesel V8. A new option this year was the Turbo Hydra-Matic 200-4R four-speed overdrive automatic available with the 305 V8 for improved highway gas mileage.

1985

For 1985, Grand Prix's now included a new checkerboard grill design, as well as a optional two tone paint schemes with a fading body stripe. New taillights with an octangular GP logo also debuted. 1985 marked the last year for the flat rear deck panel in the interior, as by 1986 laws mandated cars to have a third brake light installed. New rectangular digital ETR stereo system options were introduced and replaced the dial pushbutton stereos. Some more rarer options specific for the 1985 Pontiac Grand Prix include a factory rear spoiler, rare aluminum turbo finned wheels, and a full size spare tire. The standard engine for 1985 was the 110 horsepower (82 kW) Buick built 3.8 liter (231 cu.-in) V6 with a 150 horsepower (110 kW) Chevy 5.0 liter (305 cu.-in) V8 optional. The 5.7 liter (350 cu.-in) Olds Diesel V8 was dropped from the option list.

An ad for the '85 GP promoted the fact that its instrument panel still used dials for gauges. It was highlighted by a question similar to one long used in advertisements for Dial soap since the late 1950s, "Aren't You Glad We Use Dials. Don't You Wish Everybody Did?"

1986

An updated taillight design with three sections was the only major change to the 1986 Grand Prix. A new 2+2 model was offered for homologation of an Aerocoupe body for NASCAR competition, as Chevrolet had released the Monte Carlo SS Aerocoupe in 1986 as well. 2+2 specific pieces are an aero nose, bubble rear glass and a fiberglass trunklid with integral spoiler. All 2+2 models were fully loaded and came equipped with a corporate 305 four barrel, 200-4R 4 speed automatic transmission and 3.08:1 rear axle ratio, silver paint with 2+2 decals and striping, & 15X7 steel rally II wheels. Approximately 1225 Grand Prix 2+2's were built in 1986. While the 3.8L V6 remained standard, a fuel-injected 4.3L Chevrolet 90 degree V6 was added to the option list for models other than the 2+2. This engine was available with a 3-speed automatic or a 4-speed automatic.

1987

The 1987 Grand Prix was basically a rerun of the '86 model aside from the discontinuation of the 2+2 model. The same three models were continued including base, LE and Brougham. Engine offerings again included the standard Buick 3.8 liter (231 cu.in) V6, the Chevrolet 4.3L (262 cu in) V6 or optional Chevrolet 5.0 litre (305 cu.in) V8.

This would be the last year for the G-body Grand Prix, which would be replaced by the all-new W-body version in 1988. The '87 was also the last GP to feature rear-wheel-drive, V8 engines (until 2006) and separate body-on-frame construction.

Fifth generation (1988-1996)

1988

The first front-wheel drive W-body Grand Prix coupe was built on January 12, 1988. This generation Grand Prix was built in Kansas City, Kansas. The Grand Prix was introduced as base, LE and SE coupes. All featured GM's MPFI 2.8L V6 that made 130 horsepower (97 kW) and 170 lbs-ft of torque. A five-speed manual or four-speed automatic were the transmissions offered. The LE was well equipped with power windows and door locks and optional digital dashboard. SE models upgraded with power front seats with multiple lumbar, side bolster, side wing adjustments, an AM/FM Cassette stereo, and a neat trip computer and compass located in the center of the dash. Some models of this generation have the rare feature of a split front bench seat with a column shifter. Another unique feature only found on the Grand Prix is the combination lock for the glove box, rather than a key. Grand Prix was Motor Trend's Car of the Year for 1988. 1989

A host of changes upgraded the Grand Prix for 1989. Air conditioning was standard, and the 2.8L was replaced by GM's new 3.1L MPFI V6 that produced 140 horsepower (100 kW) mid-way through the model year. For 1989, the 3.1L was only mated to a four-speed automatic transmission, while the remaining 2.8 was mated to either manual or automatic transmissions. A new trim level was offered for 1989, a limited-edition turbo coupe that featured an ASC/McLaren turbocharged version of GM's 3.1L V6. Output was 205 horsepower (153 kW), 65 more than last year. A four-speed automatic was the only transmission offered. The coupe was an SE model with body work such as hood louvers and extra body cladding(which will be the most controversial design element in the years to come). The interior featured more equipment, and only seated 4, in contrast to the SE's 5 seats. The full analog gauges would become the 1990-93 sport cluster, and the basis for the new instrument cluster to replace the digital cluster for 1990.

1990

In 1990, the base model was dropped in favor of a sedan version (replacing the 6000 which ended production the next year and the Canada-only Tempest), entering production on September 12, 1989. A notable introduction for the Grand Prix in 1990 is the new STE (Special Touring Edition) which replaced the STE model of the Pontiac 6000. In contrast to that model, it trades in all-wheel-drive for the available Turbo 3.1L V6. Standard features include a cassette stereo with equalizer and eight speakers (a compact disc player was optional), remote keyless entry, eight-way power driver's seat with multiple lumbar and sidewing adjustments for both front seat occupants, and a compass/trip computer that was more informative than the units in the SE and turbo coupes. An LE sedan was also available for 1990, standard with a 2.3L Quad 4 engine and a 3-speed automatic, the first use of an inline 4 cylinder engine in a Grand Prix.

1991

For 1991, the Grand Prix Turbo coupe was replaced by a new GTP version. This model sported a 3.4 L DOHC V6 that produced 210 horsepower (160 kW) with a five-speed manual transmission or 200 with the optional four-speed automatic. Inside, the GTP was essentially the same as the Turbo, but the exterior used mini-quad headlamps (along with all other Grand Prix coupes), "GTP Grand Prix" and "24 Valve V6" badges. The STE Turbo was replaced by a 3.4 STE and could be ordered with the automatic transmission or manual transmission. For the SE coupe, the B4U package featured GTP bodywork and aluminum wheels. An SE sedan also became available, and featured STE-like styling at a lower price. The LE coupe was discontinued for 1991.

1992

ABS is optional on all models for '92, the 2.3L Quad 4 engine was dropped, and the LE sedan gained the SE/STE front lightbar.

1993

This was the last year of the old style B4U bodykit. Also there was a special edition model that got a metallic green paint color and gold rims and pinstriping.

1994

For '94, Grand Prix goes through a mid-generation "facelift" inside and out, as well as a reshuffling of the lineup. First, LE and STE models are discontinued. The GT and GTP become option packages on the SE sedan and coupe, respectively. These option packages include the revised 3.4L V6, sport suspension, ground effects. Outside, there is a new front and rear fascia and new ground effects. Inside, a new instrument panel hosts dual airbags, much larger and easier to use controls, and seatbelts are moved to the B-pillars rather than the doors on sedans only; coupes retain the automatic seatbelt design. Under the hood, the 3.1L V6 is changed to the 3100 SFI V6 with 160 horsepower (120 kW), while the 3.4L V6 has 210 horsepower (160 kW) with either transmission. The Grand Prix also had a slight tail light revision, completely reversing the location of the brake lights and turn signals.

1996

3.4 L DOHC V6 gains 5 hp (4 kW) with intake and exhaust improvements. All Grand Prix coupes get a sport package with five-spoke alloy wheels and dual exhaust. This is the last year for the fifth-generation Grand Prix.

Pontiac grand prix Sixth generation (1997-2003)

1997

In 1997, the W-bodies received a major redesign. The first 1997 Grand Prix was built on August 12, 1996. Promoted "widely" for its "wide track" appearance and racy styling, the second generation W-body Grand Prix sold well. There were 2 trim levels available in 1997; the SE and GT (available in coupe and sedan body styles). The Grand Prix came as a base SE sedan or a sportier GT coupe and sedan, as well as with a high-performance GTP package—available for GT models in either body style. Coupes and sedans shared similar styling, except for rear doors and quarter panels. The GTP was an option package under the GT trim level and later became its own trim level. The base engine on the SE was the 3.1 liter V6. The GT had a 3.8 liter V6 (3800 Series II) which was an option on the SE. The 3800 Series II was on the Ward's 10 Best Engines list for 1995 through 1997. The GTP added an Eaton M90 supercharger (also used in the 1996-2003 Bonneville) to the 3.8 liter, boosting power from 195 hp (145 kW) to 240 hp (179 kW). GTP trim level featured a "performance shift" button on the shifter that raised the transmission shift points. Also standard was a tire-pressure monitor. The 6-passenger seating configuration with a front bench seat and column-mounted gear shift in the Grand Prix and its sister cars the Buick Regal and Oldsmobile Intrigue (formerly Cutlass Supreme) was discontinued.

1998

Few changes occurred this year, except that traction control now was available with the supercharged engine. Airbags were "depowered" to deploy with reduced force. The tire-pressure monitor was dropped. To add some excitement, Pontiac also launched a special pace car model. This model celebrated the 40th running of the Daytona 500 on February 15, 1998. The pace-car replicas had special Medium Gulf Blue Metallic paint, unique "Sparkle Silver" 16-inch torque star aluminum wheels, custom decaling, a plaque notating the specific model number and custom door panels. Also standard was a heads-up-display that projected the current speed onto the windshield. 1500 were produced, with 200 of the 1500 getting sunroofs.

1999

Detail changes marked the '99 editions of Pontiac's midsize coupe and sedan. The nonsupercharged V6 engine gained five horsepower. GT models got a standard rear spoiler this year. The coolant overflow reservoir was relocated from being in front of the intake box to being mounted to the passenger strut tower. Available 16-inch (410 mm) alloy wheels came in a new 5-spoke design. The one new option was a Bose 8-speaker audio system.

2000

New wheel choices were added, and the standard 3.1-liter V6, installed in SE models, gained 15 horsepower (now 175). New standard equipment included rear child-seat anchors and an anti-theft system that disabled the starter unless the proper ignition key was used. Pontiac also launched a Daytona 500 pace-car replica, with silver paint, unique 16-inch (410 mm) aluminum wheels, functional hood vents, a NASCAR-inspired decklid spoiler, polished quad exhaust tips, and Daytona decals. Only 2000 were planned. By now, the list of Grand Prix competitors included the Toyota Solara coupe and Chevrolet Impala sedan. 3800 Series II 3.8liter V6 now has 200HP and 225 lb-ft of torque. Plus a heads up display that is "projected" on to the windshield. displays speed, and left and right turn single.

Pontiac grand prix 2001

OnStar, formerly unavailable on the Grand Prix, was made standard on GTP, optional only on GT. The SE got revised frontal styling in the form of the GT and GTP front bumper cover in place of the older, SE unique, front facia, standard rear spoiler, and in-trunk emergency release; dual-zone manual climate-control was standard on GTP in place of the electronic automatic unit previously offered.

A Special Edition Package was added this year that could be applied to the GT and GTP models. This package adds the NASCAR-inspired rear spoiler and roof fences, hood-mounted heat extractors, and polished dual-outlet exhaust tips previously offered on the 2000 Pace Car Replica and also adds a two tone interior, 15-spoke chrome wheels, and the requisite badging.

Pontiac grand prix 2002

New for 2002 was a $2,695 40th Anniversary option package which included the NASCAR-inspired rear spoiler and roof fences, polished dual-outlet exhaust tips, hood with heat extractors, and 15-spoke chrome wheels previously offered with the 2001 Special Edition package. Unique elements such as the Dark Cherry Metallic paint, 40th Anniversary badges, and Ruby Red and Graphite interior trim with the 40th Anniversary logo embroidered on the front seats and floormats differentiated this option package from the previous year's offering.

One 40th Anniversary Sedan was further customized with a lowering package, different wheels, and exhaust for SEMA and featured in Hot Rod Magazine as the GP40. The lowering package, provided by GM Accessories, consisted of new front and rear adjustable springs, adjustable front and rear dampers and 17-inch Z-rated tires mounted on forged aluminum wheels. GM Accessories also provided performance brake pads, drilled and slotted brake rotors (front and rear), a cat-back exhaust system, and a low-restriction air filter.

The SE gained standard cruise control and dual-zone climate control, and GTs got a standard power driver's seat and CD player. This was the last year of the sporty two door coupe. The SE model can be identified by a single exhaust pipe.

Pontiac grand prix 2003

Pontiac dropped the coupe version (2 door) for 2003 and made anti-lock brakes and traction control optional instead of standard on most of the remaining sedans.

The Limited Edition option package was offered for GT and GTP models made this year. This option package consisted of unique blue-tinted glass fog light lenses, "Limited Edition" badging, , carbon fiber instrument cluster, two-tone cloth/leather interior, and a raised spoiler resembling the original GT/GTP/SE spoiler set atop three aerodynamic pillars.

Pontiac grand prix Recalls

In March 2008, GM announced a plan to recall all 1997-2003 Grand Prix GTP models (as well as sister car Buick Regal GS) due to a problem which causes fires in the engine compartments of these vehicles. Over 230 fires were reported. This recall affected over 200,000 vehicles equipped with the Supercharged 3800 Series II Engine. GM sent a letter to the owners of these vehicles on March 13, 2008, instructing them not to park in garages or carports until the problem was resolved. However, many people in the Grand Prix community believe this recall did little to nothing to fix the fire problem, and instead the problem is likely faulty fuel rail quick disconnects and o-rings. There have been reports of fires happening after the recall has been performed.

In April 2009, the recall already posted for the Supercharged iterations of the 3800 Series II was expanded to cover all 3800 Series II engine-equipped vehicles after many fires were reported with Grand Prix GT versions. At this point, the recall now covers nearly 1.5 million vehicles.

OnStar woes

As of May 2008, Grand Prixs from the model years of 01-03 that were outfitted with OnStar cannot be activated due to outdated technology. OnStar's wireless services are provided by Verizon Wireless, which switched fully to digital cellular communications as mandated by the U.S. government/FCC. Grand Prixs of model years 2001 to 2002 have OnStar systems that are Analog cellular capable only. Some 2003 models may have had modules that could be upgraded to digital-ready.

Pontiac grand prix Seventh generation (2004-2008)

Pontiac grand prix 2004

The Grand Prix was updated for 2004 on a revised version of the GM W platform. This last generation saw poor sales as a result of it being downsized to slightly smaller interior dimensions than that of the Pontiac Grand Am. The first 2004 Grand Prix was built in October, 2002. The Grand Prix came in four different option groups; GT1, GT2, GTP, and GTP Comp-G ("Competition Group").

The base model GT1 and fancier GT2 have the Series III 3800 V6 engine, putting out 200 hp (150 kW) and 230 ft·lbf (310 Nm) of torque, while both GTPs have the supercharged (Eaton Gen 5 Supercharger) 3800 Series III V6 engine with 260 hp (195 kW) and 280 ft·lbf (380 Nm) of torque.

A Competition Group (Comp-G) package was available for the GTP that included red painted brake calipers (same brakes as the 'standard' GTP), sport tuned suspension, heads-up display (also in GT2 model), 4 speed automatic transmission with paddle-style TAPShift, StabiliTrak dynamic control system, 3.29 axle ratio, performance tires and Magnasteer II. Also, a 10 spoke light weight wheel was standard with the Comp-G package but could be 'upgraded' to the GTP optional wheel.

Commencing with this generation, the 2-door coupe version of the Grand Prix was no longer an available body style. The timing of the disappearance of the Grand Prix coupe coincided with GM's reintroduction of the 2-door Pontiac GTO.

Pontiac grand prix 2005

The Grand Prix remains basically unchanged from 2004. With the Base sedan, GT, GTP, and the new GXP. The base model and GT still have the naturally aspirated 3.8 L V6 with the GTP having the 3.8 L V6 w/ supercharger. Also, the Comp-G package was still available for the GTP with an added door emblem denoting the Comp-G package.

The GXP powerplant is the LS4 V8, a 5.3 liter Displacement on Demand (active fuel management) engine based on the legendary LS1 block. It has a shortened crankshaft, and a host of other modifications to make it fit into a FWD vehicle. The GXP also has a 4 speed automatic transmission with paddle-style TAPshift, heads-up display, vented cross drilled brakes with PBR calipers, performance tuned suspension with Bilstein gas-charged struts (sits about 9 mm (0.4 in) lower than other GP models), Magnasteer II, and StabiliTrak dynamic control system. Also, the DIC will display G-Force (maximum achieved for lateral, acceleration, and deceleration) information when the car is not moving. Cosmetically, the GXP differs from the other models with more aggressive bodywork including a different front clip, engine cooling ducts on the front quarter panels, a different rear bumper, and twin-dual polished exhaust. The Grand Prix GXP also offers a unique feature of the different-width 18-inch (460 mm) polished Alcoa Forged aluminum wheels. The front wheels are eight inches (255 mm) wide, and the rear wheels are seven inches (225 mm) wide.

Pontiac grand prix 2006

For 2006, little changed for the Grand Prix. The three options are the Grand Prix, powered by the 3800 Series III V6, the GT, now powered by the 3800 Series III Supercharged V6, and the GXP, powered by the LS4 V8. The GTP designation was discontinued from the Grand Prix line and applied as the top trim of the G6. All General Motors 3.8 Liter Buick V6 powered cars become the first SULEV compliant vehicles.

Pontiac grand prix 2007

For the 2007 Model Year, A "Special Edition" body package was added, and the GT models received a new "Diffuser" style rear bumper. The model designations remained Base, GT,and GXP. Also, the active displacement management capability on the 5.3L V8 SC (GXP) was renamed to "Active Fuel Management" from "Displacement on Demand".while the GXP trim includes a 303 horsepower (226 kW) V8 engine with a firmer suspension, performance tires, heated leather seats, a heads-up display and 18-inch (460 mm) wheels. The 2007 V8 GXP is widely accepted as the best Grand Prix ever produced.

Pontiac grand prix 2008

2008 was the Pontiac Grand Prix's last year. For 2008, Pontiac did not offer the GT trim, but continued to offer both a base and GXP trim. The base trim is offered with a 200 horsepower (150 kW) V6 engine and 16-inch (410 mm) wheels, A few new colors were also added for the 2008 model year.

The Pontiac Grand Prix was replaced by the G8 for the 2008-2009 model year. Production for the G8; however, ended in June 2009. The Pontiac brand was dissolved in 2010 in accordance with GM's Chapter 11 reorganization.