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Summary
In '62, when Pontiac released the first Grand Prix, I muttered: There Detroit goes again, bouncing its image off of others peoples' trophies." Pontiac had never been near Grand Prix racing, not even as a spectator. I expressed some doubt that the American public could even pronounce the name right (which would be poetic justice). Bonneville, now that's another matter. That was earned.But Pontiac prevailed. My attitude mellowed. And I can say honestly that I like this latest Grand Prix a lot. I welcome the commitment GM is making to the function of the machine as a utilitarian transporter of people and things and a stimulator of the brain's pleasure center. Having car guys in charge matters. Many Americans who turned to Europe and Asia for cars to suit their needs would like a reason to buy American again. Pontiac has given them grounds to consider the 2005 Grand Prix. It is hot to drive and cool to live with. New Car Test Drive correspondent Denise McCluggage is based in Santa Fe, New Mexico."
(Source: New Cars Test Drive)
Model Line Overview
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Model Lineup:
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Pontiac Grand Prix ($22,900); GT ($24,800); GTP ($26,560) |
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Engines:
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3.8-liter supercharged ohv V6 |
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Transmissions:
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4-speed automatic with TAPshift |
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Saftey Equipment (standard):
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dual-stage front airbags |
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Saftey Equipment (optional):
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ABS, EBD, traction control, stability control, side-impact and side-curtain airbags, tire inflation monitoring system |
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Basic Warranty:
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3 years/36,000 miles |
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Assembled In:
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Oshawa, Ontario |
Specifications As Tested
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Model Tested (MSRP):
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Pontiac Grand Prix GTP ($26,560) |
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Standard Equipment:
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air conditioning; power front bucket seats; 60/40 split folding rear seatbacks; fog lamps; twin exhaust tips; backlight radio antenna; tinted glass; Driver Information Center; remote keyless entry; anti-theft system; power mirrors/door locks/windows; cruise control; rear defogger; leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel; tachometer; CD radio with 6 speakers and steering wheel audio controls; two auxiliary power outlets; side protective moldings; premium lighting (rear assist handles, lighted vanity mirrors, reading lamps front/rear): overhead console with glasses storage; right front folding seatback; cargo net; ABS with enhanced traction system; Magnasteer variable effort power steering; Gen6 OnStar; tire inflation monitoring system |
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Options As Tested (MSRP):
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Premium Audio Package ($695) includes 6-CD player, 235-watt amplifier and 9 Monsoon speakers; Leather Trim ($795) includes leather-appointed seating, heated driver and front passenger seats; rear spoiler ($380) |
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Destination Charge:
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660 |
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Gas Guzzler Tax:
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Price As Tested (MSRP):
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29090 |
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Layout:
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front-wheel drive |
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Horsepower (hp @ rpm):
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260 @ 5400 |
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Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):
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280 @ 3600 |
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Transmission:
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4-speed automatic with TAPshift |
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EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
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18/28 |
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Wheelbase:
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110.5 |
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Length/width/height:
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198.3/73.8/55.9 |
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Track, f/r:
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61.7/62.1 |
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Turning circle:
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37.4 |
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Seating capacity:
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5 |
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Head/hip/leg room, f:
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38.5/54.6/42.4 |
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Head/hip/leg room, m:
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Head/hip/leg room, r:
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36.5/53.5/36.5 |
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Cargo volume:
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57 |
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Payload:
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Towing capacity:
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1000 |
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Suspension, f:
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independent, MacPherson struts, lower A-arms, coil springs, anti-roll bar |
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Suspension, r:
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independent, tri-link, coil-over struts, anti-roll bar |
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Ground clearance:
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Curb weight:
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3583 |
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Tires:
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P225/55HR17 Michelin Energy |
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Brakes, f/r:
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disc/disc with ABS and EBD |
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Fuel capacity:
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17 |
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