1976 Pontiac Grand Prix

The Grand Prix received styling updates for 1976, including a new split vertical bar 'waterfall' grille flanked by quad rectangular headlights. The taillight lenses in the back were updated. The model designations remained the same (J, SJ, and LJ) with the LJ and SJ offering the same equipment and trim as 1975. The SJ, however, was now powered by a 400 CID V8.

The base engine for 1976 was the 350 cubic-inch V8 offering 160 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Turbo-Hydramatic, power-brakes and steering, and GR78x15 blackwall SBR tires were standard. A limited-edition Golden Anniversary model (50th Anniversary) was available, featuring special paint and striping, removable roof panels, Rally II wheels, and a commemorative stand-up hood ornament. The SJ model added the 400 CID four-barrel V8, bucket seats with console, special wheel covers, and courtesy light. The LJ model was the 'luxury version', adding velour bucket seats, two-tone body color, and thick cut-pile carpeting.

Sales were strong for 1976, with 228,091 units sold - the best in Grand Prix history. It was the second most popular model for 1976, only being outsold by Chevrolet's Monte Carlo (353,272 units). There were 110,814 examples of the base model Js, 88,232 SJs, and 29,045 LS (which included 4,807 Gold Anniversary editions).

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2012