48k Original Miles: 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix J

Although the automotive world had begun turning its attention to smaller and more efficient cars as the 1970s unfolded, it was still possible for a buyer to hand over their cash for a vehicle offering impressive interior space and a large V8 under the hood that offered an effortless driving experience. This 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix J is a prime example of that thinking. It will seat five people comfortably, and its 400ci powerplant provides enough power and torque to satisfy most buyers. This car is a rock-solid survivor needing nothing but a new home. Therefore, the seller has listed it here on Craigslist in Walpole, Massachusetts. They have set their price at $14,000, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting this low-mile gem.

The 1972 model year marked the last for production of the Third Generation Grand Prix that first graced showroom floors in 1969. Styling updates throughout the run had been mainly minor as Pontiac joined other manufacturers in adapting to the changes required to cope with evolving emission and safety regulations. This car is a rock-solid vehicle that has resided most of its life in California. It presents well, with its Wilderness Green paint exhibiting an impressive shine. Any flaws in the paint and panels are too minor to show in the supplied photos, and there is no evidence or mention of any prior repairs or restoration work. The seller mentions surface corrosion on the inside of the trunk floor as the only issue, but treating it to prevent deterioration should prove easy. They identify the culprit as a leaking rear window seal but don’t mention if it has been replaced. The chrome and tinted glass are in good order, with the Pontiac rolling on Rally II wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich tires.

Picking a highlight of this Grand Prix is challenging, but the interior grabs that honor. It is upholstered in Dark Green vinyl that complements the exterior, and its presentation is virtually flawless. This is understandable because the seller confirms it recently underwent a retrim using OEM parts. The result was worth the time and effort because all this interior needs is for someone to run over the carpets with a vacuum cleaner before it would look at home on a showroom floor. The factory air conditioning doesn’t blow cold, but that is the only identified fault. This Grand Prix must have felt pretty luxurious in 1972 because occupants received bucket seats, a console, power windows, and an AM/FM stereo radio. These items are intact, and there are no visible aftermarket additions.

Lifting this Pontiac’s hood reveals the 400ci V8 that sends 250hp and 325 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a three-speed Hydramatic transmission. The inclusion of power assistance for the steering and brakes accentuates the luxurious impression made by the interior. The seller indicates the Grand Prix has a genuine 48,000 miles on the clock but doesn’t mention verifying evidence. They recently replaced many front suspension and brake components, adding electronic ignition for improved reliability. The car is in excellent health, and they describe it as fun to drive. It has no known needs or issues, allowing the new owner to indulge in some instant classic motoring gratification.

Buyers knew that 1972 marked the end of Third Generation Grand Prix production and that a new model was waiting in the wings for 1973. This would typically see sales volumes slump as potential buyers bided their time so they could park the latest and greatest offering in their driveway. The 1972 Grand Prix bucked that trend, with 91,961 people handing over their cash to drive one home. That was comfortably the best result since 1969 and represented a 36% jump compared to 1971. People liked these cars then, and they continue to do so today. Are you attracted enough to pursue this survivor further? I wish you luck if you do.