Some enthusiasts wish to personalize their classic without compromising its originality. There are ways to achieve that goal, as demonstrated by this 1969 Pontiac Grand Prix Model J. The owner treated it to a high-end wrap that wasn’t cheap. That approach protects the paint hiding beneath, but gives the car a distinctive appearance. It won’t appeal to everyone, but reversing the change would be fairly straightforward. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this stunning Grand Prix listed here on eBay in Denver, Colorado. The seller set their BIN at $21,900 with the option to make an offer.
Pontiac released its Third Generation Grand Prix in 1969, and this first-year example is a mystery machine. The pearlescent wrap is striking, but I have pondered its original paint shade. The door frames and other areas appear to wear Black, which might be a fair indicator of the car’s factory form. If it is correct, it makes me wonder why someone would change a desirable Triple-Black classic. Of course, tastes vary, and that combination may not have appealed to the owner. The wrap generally looks crisp and clean, with only a few imperfections. The panels are as straight as an arrow, and there is no evidence of rust. The Black vinyl top looks excellent, with the same true of the trim and glass. Rounding out the exterior are Rally II wheels and narrow whitewalls.
This Grand Prix is more than a pretty face. Its engine bay houses a 400ci V8, and with an “XH” engine block code, it places 350hp and 445 ft/lbs of torque at the driver’s disposal. A three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission handles shifting duties, with the Pontiac also featuring power steering and power brakes. It is unclear whether the Pontiac is numbers-matching, although the V8 is date-correct for this car. The seller is sparing with information regarding the car’s mechanical condition, but the Inspection Report contained in the listing indicates no apparent issues. The inspector performed a test drive, and this also seems to have gone well. Therefore, I believe that this Grand Prix is a turnkey proposition that the buyer can enjoy immediately.
The theme of spotless presentation continues inside this Pontiac. Trimmed in Black, it features a combination of cloth and vinyl that appears to be free from wear. The same is true of the carpet and the wheel. The dash and pad are spotless, with no cracks or other problems. The seller indicates that the air conditioning is inoperative, but doesn’t clarify why. The Grand Prix also features a radio and a tilt wheel, and while that isn’t a long list of creature comforts, it is enough to make life aboard this classic pretty pleasant.
Some readers will be instantly critical of this 1969 Pontiac Grand Prix, suspicious of what might be hiding beneath the wrap. That’s a fair call, and I understand that sentiment. However, the same could be said about any classic featuring fresh paint, because it can hide a multitude of sins. There will always be an element of risk with any classic purchase, but the trick is to minimize the possibility of nasty surprises. Therefore, the first step would be to negotiate an in-person inspection, and if you aren’t confident, finding an independent, experienced professional would seem the logical next step. If this Pontiac withstands that process, would you consider pursuing it further?
This looks like a nice solid Grand Prix. I may be wrong, but the black paint in the door jams does not appear to be original. I don’t see any of the door stickers for tire pressure, date of build etc on the inside of the door either. I know that the wrap is a personal taste thing, but they did a great job, even getting around what appears to be the original dealer name plate on the trunk. Nice one Curvette and Adam. Thank you.
These are genuine trend setters. GM brought personal luxury to the masses and John Z belted it out of the park! Perfectly equipped so your lady can sit beside you.
it’s a good-looking G/P and a good year as well but once i read it was wrapped that killed it for me and the bench seat. some may like the wrap but i will pass. to me that’s a fast cover up.