When the urge hits to make some performance improvements on a vintage car, it’s wise to start with a fairly solid example with a reasonably straight body. Those with even more foresight think about how comfortable the finished product will be to drive in the future, which may have factored into the seller choosing a well-optioned SJ model third-generation Pontiac Grand Prix as the recipient of some fine mechanical upgrades. The components implemented here seem carefully planned, with the 4-speed manual transmission perhaps the paragon here. This one’s looking for a new home, so if you’re ready to shift some gears, this 1969 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ can be found here on Craigslist in Valleyford, Washington. It’s priced at $15,000, and we’d like to thank reader Curvette for the excellent tip here!
The GP was all-new for 1969, featuring fresh styling outside plus a new chassis for the body to ride on. Opting for the SJ model got buyers a 428 engine as standard equipment with manual transmission availability, though the base model J only came with an automatic. The seller reports that this one was originally equipped with an automatic, but it’s been replaced with a Muncie M20 4-speed, with a heavy-duty clutch assembly making sure those gears operate properly. While it’s not specified whether the rebuilt 428 is original to the car, the seller says $19k has been spent so far, and that about 5,000 miles have been covered since the mechanical work was completed.
From a distance, the exterior looks pretty good overall, but a closer inspection reveals a few areas with rust starting to come through. However, any visible corrosion appears minor enough to be repairable without any panel swaps or major headaches. Just enjoying driving this Pontiac like it is for a while isn’t a bad idea either, as it seems all that’s left to do here is deal with some not-too-serious cosmetic issues.
This one’s also stated to be loaded with power options, plus there’s a tilt steering column and cruise control, and that interior looks plenty comfortable too. As with the outside, there are a few imperfections and areas showing wear inside, but this car seems like a good candidate to go at your own pace with the remaining details and be thankful that most of the mechanical work is already done. Is this 1969 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ one you’d be interested in taking to the finish line?
When these were introduced, I remember being drawn to them for their clean, yet sporty looks, both outside and inside. I think their styling has aged well. I especially like them in dark colors, but this shade does add to the subtlety of the car. This one has had lots of work, but bringing it up a notch will require addressing the rust. Would be fun to drive with the 4-speed.
Thanks Mike.
Nice one. If Mike didn’t mention that this was converted from automatic I would’ve thought it came from the factory this way. They did a good job with the pedals and the console etc. 428 4 speed is a nice combination. I agree with Bob, address the rust before it gets out of control and enjoy it.
If this stays garaged, the rust can be kept at bay. It has all the makings of a nice cruiser, with a 428 and almost 440hp and 500ft/lb of torque, with the 4-spd and 3.42 limited slip, it should be a fun car. $15k and the seller is negotiable, Too bad it’s on the wrong coast. I would get the car and A/C squared away and drive the car the way it is.
Good comments, nice find. Cool GP, like someone mentioned on here the other day, driving a big boat of a car equipped with a standard is even more of a treat🏁
The ad was deleted by author. If the ad was real, that shouldn’t be a surprise. Good deals don’t last.
Steve R
It’s been re-posted:
https://www.craigslist.org/view/d/valleyford-1969-pontiac-grand-prix-sj/afUdyyaAr5RYSE3DznoNM3
Per the 1969 Pontiac brochure, transmission availability was the same for base and SJ Grand Prix models: 3-speed standard, 4-speed and automatic optional. This one is is equipped just the way I would have ordered one – 428, 4-speed, no vinyl top. A gentleman’s GTO.