1997-2003 Pontiac Grand Prix: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Redesigned for 1997, bigger in size and racier in appearance, Grand Prix shared its front-drive, midsize platform with Buick's Century. It was also related to the latest Buick Regal and Oldsmobile Intrigue, both of which would debut for 1998. Coupes and sedans had the same styling, except for rear doors and quarter panels. A wider stance was touted as a revival of Pontiac's "Wide Track" look of the 1960s. In fact, track width (distance between wheels on the same axle) grew by more 2 inches in front and 3 inches in the rear, compared to '96 models. 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. Neither Buick nor Oldsmobile offered coupe versions of their midsize models.All Grand Prix models used V6 engines and a 4-speed automatic transmission. A 3.1-liter V6 went into the SE, but those models were delayed for a few months after the car's introduction in summer 1996. A 3.8-liter V6, available right off the bat, was optional in the SE and standard in GT models. Topping the line, the GTP edition (actually an option package) got a supercharged version of the 3.8-liter unit. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes were standard, as was traction control (but not with the supercharged engine). Also standard was a tire-pressure monitor. A built-in child seat was a new option. Rivals included the Ford Taurus, Honda Accord, Nissan Maxima, and Toyota Camry.