1973 Pontiac Grand Prix Model J

Description

The era of full-sized luxury muscle was dying, just like the rest of the high-horsepower machines, but that didn't stop Pontiac from building cars like this ultra-cool 1973 Grand Prix Model J. There's still a rumbling 400-inch V8 under the hood, a pair of bucket seats inside, and enough performance to make it a legitimate piece of the Pontiac legend.

Time has been kind to the Grand Prix, whose design stands out as one of the better ones of the period. Of course, long hoods and short decks have been in fashion since the dawn of the auto industry, but this Grand Prix gets it exactly right. A slight freshening for the '73 model year only helps, especially with that neo-boat-tail rear end. We're strongly of the opinion that the car is wearing factory paint, which is code 11 Cameo White, which suits the upscale Poncho just fine. The paint has a great gloss that seems well-suited to the period, neither too shiny like a modern car nor faded-looking like neglected paint. This one just looks right. Note the crisp lines along the lower edges of the body that makes panel alignment so critical, as well as neat details like the slotted rear side marker lights and gold pinstripes that highlight some of the more dramatic sheetmetal curves. Thankfully, Pontiac took it easy on the chrome, using it sparingly on the tightly-fitted bumpers to make a statement, and it remains in excellent condition. And yes, that's a white vinyl top which we also believe to be original and in very good condition.

Pontiac's commitment to luxury and performance is quite evident inside, where you get comfortable red cloth buckets flanking a sporty console. A wrap-around instrument panel was new and Pontiac advertising called it "aircraft-inspired" which might be a reach, but it sure looks good. The seat covers are as original as the paint as are the carpets on the floor, and it really is nicely preserved. Even the door panels are likely original and their condition suggests that this car has lived an exceptionally easy life. The car includes cold A/C, power windows, a tilt column, power brakes and steering (mandatory on a beast this size, I'd think), and a TH400 3-speed automatic transmission that's a reliable travelling partner. The back seat is in excellent condition, and yes, that's a working factory AM/FM stereo radio in the center stack. The trunk is fitted with a correct mat and spare tire, and just check out how clean the inner fenders are!

Mechanically, the code X5 400 cubic inch Pontiac V8 is hard to beat. Torquey, smooth, and versatile, it moves the big GP with ease. Obviously maintained to a very high standard, it takes its influences from contemporary Trans Ams and carries plenty of firepower thanks to a 4-barrel carburetor under the factory air cleaner. It starts easily, runs very well, and has that confident, muscular feel that modern engines just can't match. The underside is original and not detailed for show, but has nothing to hide, either, and considering it spent a good deal of its time in storage (the owner lived in Alaska and only used it when he was in town) it's awfully nice. The Flowmaster exhaust system sounds fantastic and it sits on Pontiac Rally II wheels wearing big 235/70/15 BFGoodrich radials.

These cars have a dedicated following and with values only going up, now is the time to put a clean, attractive Grand Prix in your stable. Call today!