Although Pontiac didn’t quite survive to its centennial anniversary, the brand reached its notable 50th milestone in 1976, and the Grand Prix was one of the cars it dressed up in special attire to celebrate. Known as the Grand Prix Golden Anniversary Edition, apparently fewer than 5,000 were produced, and this one here on eBay seems to remain a very well-preserved example. It’s located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with the opening bid of $15,000 yet to be placed.
By 1976, the already stylish GP got a revised front end, with a fresh grille and the previous dual round headlights swapped for 4 rectangular units, giving the car a more modern look. Even the base model was well equipped, but the LJ package added even more luxurious features. Pontiac chose that trim level for its Golden Anniversary Edition, and each was painted corporate code 55, or Anniversary Gold Metallic. The seller says this one is primarily original, but believes it may have had some paint touch-ups over the years. However, it is currently garage-kept and driven only to occasional car shows, and the exterior appears straight, solid, and still shows plenty of gloss.
This Grand Prix has the right stuff to appeal to those who enjoy both luxury and sportiness, with the Hurst Hatch T-Tops being a part of the Golden Anniversary package. Surprisingly, air conditioning wasn’t standard, though it was available as an extra-cost option. I guess Pontiac figured many buyers would prefer driving with the roof panels removed, but fortunately, this one was ordered with A/C, though there is no belt on the compressor. The visible interior appears to be in excellent condition, and it’s great to see it has front buckets and a console.
It has a 400 V8 engine, which wasn’t an excessively high performer, delivering 170 horsepower or 185 with a 4-barrel carburetor. The odometer shows 25,750, but the title lists the mileage as exempt, and there’s no word on whether that’s accurate. This one is listed as a 2-owner vehicle, and it certainly appears to have been treated kindly by both, and I imagine there will be some competition for who gets to be caretaker number 3. Any thoughts on this 1976 Pontiac Grand Prix Golden Anniversary Edition, or ideas on where the seller may have set the reserve?
this dog would still bury the needle on the freeway