1972 Pontiac Grand Prix

The first-generation of Pontiac Grand Prix styling lasted from 1962 through 1968. In 1969, the Grand Prix wore all-new bodywork on a stretched version of the intermediate GM A-body platform (called the G-Body) highlighted by a pronounced grille and Pontiac's longest-ever hood. Its wheelbase measured 118-inches, a width of 75.7-inches, and an overall length of 210.2-inches.

1972 was the final year for the styling first introduced in 1969, and only minor revisions were applied. In the front was a new cross-hatch grille, and in the back were new triple cluster taillights. The previous burled-elm trim was replaced by a new teakwood design, the cloth and upholstery trim sections revised.

The 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix 2-door hardtop sold for $4,450 and there were 91,961 examples produced. They had single high-intensity headlamps, semi-boattail rear deck styling with triple-lens horizontal taillights, and a new grille. The car came equipped with either bucket or notchback front seats. There was carpeting, floor shift, custom cushion steering wheel, upper-level ventilation, ashtrays in the front, Deluxe wheel covers, concealed wipers, and trunk compartment side panels. There were also teakwood dash trim, ashtrays, courtesy lights, a clock, and a console. The Grand Prix also came equipped with power brakes with front discs, a power-flex cooling fan, power steering, and rode on G78-14 blackwall tires.

Mid-year, the Grand Prix received a radial tire option, with the wheel diameter increasing from 14- to 15-inches. A new 'Fasten Seat Belts' light was also a new mid-year feature, with lights and buzzers to warn motorists when the seat belts were not fastened. The light was positioned in the speedometer pod, and the speedometer changed from a 140 mph high point back to 120 mph.

Buyers of the Grand Prix had the option of selecting the 'SJ' package. This included a 455 cubic-inch four-barrel V8 engine, luggage and door courtesy lamps, Rally gauge clusters, vinyl accent stripes, and body-color outside mirrors.

by Daniel Vaughan | May 2019