1987 Pontiac Grand Prix

The Pontiac Grand Prix was in production from 1962 through 2002, built to seven distinct designs (a.k.a generations) on various platforms, sizes, configurations, and performance. The fourth-generation was introduced in 1978, built atop the downsized A-body platform, and built through 1981, shifting to the G-body in 1982 and built through 1987, with the fifth generation introduced in 1988.

A new 2+2 model joined the Grand Prix in 1986, built to homologate an aerodynamic coupe version for NASCAR competition, similar to Chevrolet's Monte Carlo SS Aerocoupe. All 2+2 models were fitted with a 305 cubic-inch four-barrel engine, a 200-4R four-speed automatic transmission, and a 3.08:1 rear axle ratio. They rode on 15x7 steel Rally II wheels, had two-tone paint with silver on top and gray on the bottom, and 2+2 decals and striping. There was a specially tuned suspension with four gas-filled shocks, 77 N-mm bars, and a 12.7:1 steering ratio. Although the rear end design was useful for motorsports, especially effective on superspeedways, its design was less effective for street use. The rear glass area was large and unopenable, necessitating a shortened trunk opening. The horsepower benefits were modest and the handling benign, yet the popularity was great, and dealers were able to inflate prices by approximately twenty percent over the list price of this limited-production (1,118 examples built-in 1986) version.

The 2+2 model was a one-year-only design, retired after 1986. The 1987 Grand Prix was essentially a carry-over model from 1986, as Pontiac worked on an all-new design for 1988, with the first front-wheel drive W-body Grand Prix coupes built in October of 1987 for the 1988 model year.

The 1987 Pontiac model lineup included the Fiero resting on the P-body platform with seating for two, the J-body Sunbird in a variety of body styles including a coupe, hatchback, sedan, and convertible, and the upscale N-body front-wheel-drive Grand Am (coupe and sedan). The F-body Firebird was offered solely as a coupe, the Pontiac 6000 offered as a coupe and sedan, the Grand Prix, and the range-topping Bonneville. Depending on the trim level, prices on the 6000 ranged from $10,500 to $18,000. The Grand Prix was priced from $11,070 to $17,800, and the Bonneville at $13,400 to $15,800.

The Pontiac Grand Prix continued as the company's intermediate, rear-wheel-drive luxury coupe that offered mediocre fuel economy, a sporty and attractive profile, comfort, and reliability. The trim levels continued to include the base, LE, and Brougham. The base coupe listed for $11,070, the LE at $11,800, and the Brougham at $12,520.

The Grand Prix came standard with lower chrome bumpers and mini bumper guards in the front and rear, custom wheel covers, dual rectangular headlights, anti-corrosion protection, engine coolant recovery system, formal rear quarter windows, and a compact spare tire. The interiors had a dome light, a lockable glove compartment, GM Computer Command Control system, inside hood release, electronic clock, and dual horns.

The LE trim level added a 55/45 notchback front seat in Parllex cloth with fold-down center armrest, four-spoke sport steering wheel, and color-keyed safety belts. Exterior features included dual sport side view mirrors and wide rocker panel moldings.

The top-trim level, the Brougham, added power windows, Majestic cloth seat trim, door courtesy lamps, and luxury cushion steering wheel.

The standard V-6 engine had overhead valves, a two-barrel carburetor, a cast-iron block, and delivered 110 horsepower. The 263 CID V6 unit used an EFI/TBI fuel injection system and delivered 140 horsepower. The 305 CID V8 was equipped with a four-barrel carburetor and delivered 150 horsepower. A three-speed automatic transmission was standard with overdrive, and a Turbo-Hydramatic THM 200-4R four-speed overdrive transmission was optional. Stopping power was by power-assisted brakes with ventilated discs in the front and drums in the rear. The suspension was comprised of MacPherson struts with coil springs in the front and a beam axle setup with coil springs in the rear.

The total production of the 1987 Grand Prix was 16,542 units.

by Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2020