Drive or Restore? 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix J

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The 1971-72 Pontiac Grand Prix’s rode on the same platform as the 1969-70s. But the big change was at the front end, where the car went from quad to dual headlights (the same approach used by the Chevy Monte Carlo). I always thought the vehicles were too big for individual peepers, and that may have contributed to an 11% sales decline. The 1972 model was little changed, and the seller describes this one as a project, but it doesn’t look much like one. Located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, this Poncho is available here on eBay for $8,500 OBO.

Along with the Monte Carlo, the early 1970s Grand Prix’s had one of the longest hoods in the industry. That was strictly for looks, as when you popped the hood open, there was ample space between the engine and the front bumper. The Model J continued to be the base Grand Prix, while the SJ was the next step up. However, there was nothing basic about any ’72 GP. A 400 cubic inch V8 was standard equipment, and this car’s VIN decodes as having left the factory that way.

According to the seller, this Pontiac is drivable but does not get out very often. It’s said to be a solid project car, but the seller doesn’t elaborate on the issues. Are they mechanical, cosmetic, or both? Rather, the focus seems to be on attributes like the car’s “classic design” and its appeal to “someone who appreciates classic vehicles.” We’re told it’s a complete car that could be a driver or a great restoration project.

Pontiac built more than 58,000 Grand Prix’s in 1972, the car’s 11th year on the market. It would go on to become a fixture at GM from 1962 to 2008, and eight generations of the car were designed, built, and sold. Over the course of its 46 years, it would morph from just a personal luxury coupe to a decked-out sedan with four doors. The Colonnade era of the Grand Prix would arrive in 1973 and find even more buyers. Thanks for the tip, “Curvette”.

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Comments

  1. Robert Haake

    If it were closer I’d buy it

    Like 2
  2. mark

    Seems like a clean Pontiac and the price is OK. Noticed the missing A/C compressor. First things to go are the steering wheel and to bad the radio section is cut.

    Like 3
  3. Gary

    If I had the room i’d love this one. My parents ordered a bronze/tan/tan SSJ in 72 against the salesman’s advise. The dealership felt the color choice was not workable and asked for a $1000.00 deposit. When it came in they sold another before it was unloaded from the carrier. They asked to put it in the showroom for a week and also sold two Chevelles in a similar combo. My parental could doll up their cars pretty well and they traded in their 66 GTO maroon/maroon tri power four speed coupe on it.

    Like 4
  4. hairyolds68Member

    this has been for sale since late last year. in this condition 3500.00 max. needs a lot of work and sourcing good used parts.

    Like 4
  5. Olds Man

    Pass on this . . . This thing has been thrashed !

    Like 0
  6. Bakes

    Bring a magnet. The lower rear quarter panel on the driver’s side does not match the passenger side. These were pretty cars in their day, and IMO the two headlight years look more distinctive and better than the four headlight years.

    Like 1

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