Affordability is often a key consideration for an enthusiast seeking a first project candidate. The thought of investing a large sum for a classic requiring work can be daunting, which is where cars like this 1980 Pontiac Grand Prix fit into the equation. It is begging for love, but it is a rock-solid driver that the new owner can enjoy immediately. That would allow them to plan their project path, and, more importantly, to assemble the budget required to complete their build. The seller has listed the Pontiac here on Craigslist in Alhambra, California. Their price of $2,900 makes this classic undeniably affordable.

Pontiac adopted a policy of downsizing with its Fifth Generation Grand Prix range, which was in line with the prevailing industry trends. Manufacturers focused on improved efficiency, largely consigning the land yachts of the 1970s to the pages of history. The first owner ordered this 1980 Grand Prix in Fremont Gold with a Black Landau-style vinyl top and matching paint on the horizontal surfaces. The seller describes the overall condition as good, proving that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. The paint has suffered at the hands of the California sun, developing a faded and matte appearance. The driver’s door has a significant dent, and the bumper fillers have crumbled. However, the vinyl might be okay, and life in a dry climate seems to have protected this classic from the typical rust issues. The trim generally looks good, and there are no glaring glass issues. This Grand Prix is begging for a cosmetic refresh, but it could still be a hot candidate for an enthusiastic amateur willing and able to be hands-on.

This Pontiac’s interior is almost complete, and apart from a modern stereo, it is unmodified. It exhibits deterioration consistent with long-term UV exposure, which has cracked the pad and faded the carpet. Its worst shortcoming is the front seat because the cover is badly ripped. There are alternatives available to the buyer, depending on how much money they are willing to spend. A complete set of replacement seatcovers retails for approximately $670 and would eliminate the worst of the shortcomings. Alternatively, a set of high-quality slipcovers will cost a fraction of that figure, and with a $50 cover thrown over the dash, would lift the inside of this Grand Prix markedly. A carpet set adds around $220 to the tally, proving that there are alternatives that will cover most bases. There are a couple of missing dash items that might be found at a Pick-A-Part, but the remaining trim looks acceptable for a driver-grade build. It isn’t dripping with luxury options, although the buyer will undoubtedly welcome the air conditioning, power windows, tilt wheel, and remote driver’s mirror.

The seller supplies no engine photos, but the listing suggests that this Grand Prix features a 3.8-liter V6, teamed with a three-speed automatic transmission. The engine should produce 115hp and 188 ft/lbs of torque, with both figures modest by modern standards. However, the car’s performance should be acceptable, and with the ability to cruise effortlessly on the open road while topping 25mpg, it would be an effective long-distance tourer. The seller indicates that the mechanical news with this Grand Prix is all positive. They say that it runs and drives exceptionally well, and has a genuine 80,000 miles showing on its odometer. They don’t mention verifying evidence, meaning the claim must be taken with a grain of salt. However, they appear approachable and may be willing to answer questions posed by potential buyers.

I readily admit that this 1980 Pontiac Grand Prix isn’t the most desirable car on the planet, but enthusiasts planning to dip their toe into the water of classic ownership must start somewhere. This is especially true if a project is the goal, because nothing sours the experience faster than sinking tens of thousands of dollars into a vehicle, only to discover that the buyer has bitten off more than they can chew. There are few such dangers with this Pontiac, which is why I believe it will find a new home with someone willing to return this beauty to its former glory.