1985 Pontiac Grand Prix

Description

If you're a fan of the late, great Pontiac, then we suggest you dig a little deeper into this example of an affordable luxury coupe. Offering full-sized comfort and rear-wheel-drive prowess, this 1985 Pontiac Grand Prix was the top-of-the-line machine that continues to have timeless appeal.

These cars practically defined the '80s with their long hood and short deck design, and it has never gone out of style. Pontiac seemed to use the two-tone color better than the other GM divisions, and it looks great on the big coupe. It also helps that the factory-correct dark gray over light gray has been given a nice professional respray. Plus, the padded roof almost gives this a cool tri-tone feeling. Up front there's a familiar split grille, which is a Pontiac tradition going back decades, and a touch of formality comes from the stand-up hood ornament and chrome bumpers. Out back, the proper Grand Prix script, nice taillights, and even well-preserved bumper fillers suggest that this car has led an easy life. And because this is GM's performance division, an iconic set of American Racing Torq Thrust wheels have been added that nicely match this full silver package.

The interior is the kind of plush environment that was a GM specialty, with a split bench seat, gray velour upholstery, and every luxury feature they could come up with in the mid-80s. It's all very nicely maintained, with only modest signs of wear and age, which is rather remarkable given that the car has crossed the three-decade threshold. Amenities include power windows, power locks, tilt steering column, power rear defroster, cruise control, and provisions for air conditioning. The radio has even been upgraded to an AM/FM/CD stereo, so you can listen to modern tunes while you comfortably cruise along. Pontiac put a full set of gauges into the dash, and this complete package looks exceptionally unique as the vents continue the small round appearance started by the auxiliary readouts. Because this is full-size luxury for up to six people, you'll be happy to see the ample size of the trunk can carry everybody's luggage on the road trip.

The engine is GM's indestructible 3.8-liter V6, which is a happy torque factory that moves the Grand Prix with ease. Not as thirsty as the V8 examples, you'll enjoy pulling around 25 MPG on the highway. It's nestled way back there in the engine bay, but service access is still quite good. Everything looks nicely presented and well preserved (we even suspect this is the original motor.) Turn the key and it fires easily and idles smoothly – true signs of proper care and maintenance. The TH350 three-speed automatic transmission is a smooth runner, and recent investments in the exhaust keep this a truly nice experience. Add in power steering and front disc brakes, and this classic Pontiac has all the ability of a daily driver too.

Just as you've seen prices of the Monte Carlo grow, the rarer Grand Prix is on the rise, too. So get a great example of nostalgia while it's still at an affordable price. Call today!!