Original 455: No Reserve 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ

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Few classics can be all things to all people, but this 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix offers an excellent compromise for those wishing to combine luxury with performance. From its welcome range of interior options to its range-topping 455ci V8, it is a promising project candidate with only minor rust for the buyer to address. Located in San Diego, California, the seller has listed the Grand Prix here on eBay. Bidding sits at $5,650 in a No Reserve auction.

Pontiac marketed the Third Generation Grand Prix from 1969 until 1972, with our feature SJ a final-year model. The first owner ordered it in Brasilia Gold with a vinyl top, but since the vinyl is now a distant memory, it is unclear what color they chose. The baked paint and missing vinyl are no surprise because the vehicle has spent its life exposed to the California sun. That isn’t necessarily bad news, because it has also limited rust to a small area below the rear window. The lower extremities are clean, while the underside shots reveal no problems. The panels are straight, with only one small dent in the trunk lid and one in the front fender requiring attention. The front bumper would benefit from a trip to the platers, but the remaining trim is in good condition. The tinted glass is clear, and although the Pontiac retains its Rally II wheels, they are missing their trim rings as specified on the original Build Sheet.

This Grand Prix ticks the boxes for those looking for power. Its 455ci V8 generates 250hp and 375 ft/lbs of torque, which feeds to a 12-bolt rear end via a three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission. The curb weight of 3,986 lbs demonstrates the company’s focus on luxury, although its ability to cover the ¼-mile in 15.6 seconds confirms that it can get moving nicely if poked with a sharp stick. The seller indicates that they recently revived this classic after over two decades in storage. They replaced the master cylinder, wheel cylinders, starter, and distributor, and rebuilt the carburetor. Otherwise, this Grand Prix is an unmolested classic that remains as it left the factory. They state that the car’s history means that the odometer reading of 65,000 miles could be genuine, although there is no documentary evidence. This SJ runs and drives perfectly, with no mechanical needs or shortcomings.

This Pontiac’s interior is a surprise packet because its condition is better than I would have expected considering the exterior evidence of UV exposure. The biggest issue facing the buyer will be addressing the single crack in the dashpad. The seatcovers exhibit deterioration, and the headliner has let go. There are other small imperfections, but the interior is serviceable. The first owner selected a few desirable options, with this car featuring air conditioning, power windows, bucket seats, a console, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM radio.

Twenty-six bids and fifty-one people placing this 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ on their Watch List confirm that it is a classic that has commanded interest. There is time remaining for both figures and the bid price to climb, but how high can it go? Values have dropped recently, and it may struggle to hit five-figure territory. Considering its specifications and the potential contained within this classic, is it one that you might consider pursuing?

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Comments

  1. Stan StanMember

    3.07 gear ⚙️ std. Opt 3.31. Perfect for cruising the highways w effortless power.

    Like 5
  2. Nelson C

    Looks worthy of restoration. They don’t make them like this anymore.

    Like 5
  3. PL

    Yep, she’s a builder. If the buy-in stays below 10k, it’s probably worth it.

    Like 2
  4. John Oliveri

    I have a 73 SJ, perfect highway cruiser, loves long rides, just have a fuel truck following you

    Like 2
  5. Richard Jones

    My brother had a 72 SJ ,gold on white, optioned out, even had the rear console with 8 track facing forward. He was the second owner on low mileage car. I loved borrowing that car ,real luxury with an attitude.

    Like 1
  6. BrianT BrianTMember

    A friend’s father had a ’71 SJ. We were over there one day when he backed out of the drive, cigar in his mouth, and did a great burnout. That’s one of those things that you never forget.

    Like 2
    • 370zpp 370zpp

      I remember, Brian. I was there.

      Like 1
      • BrianT BrianTMember

        Yes, you were.

        Like 1
  7. Mark

    Seems like a good price. I hope someone restores this one and enjoys it!

    Like 0
  8. ken

    nice piece at a good price now. the rust on the dutchman panel is going to take some work to fix. car worth a redo but paint the roof whatever color the vinyl was. much better than water holding vinyl. i had J model in high school 40yrs ago. paid 800.00 bucks for it 70k car. boy car that ran like a raped ape. wish i had it today.

    Like 2
  9. Robert

    I’m very skeptical of the sellers comment “the only, and I mean the only rust is below the rear window” there is clearly rust in almost every picture. Also does not mention how well the transmission works. I would’t go much higher than the $5,900 it’s sitting at

    Like 0
  10. George Mattar

    Fix the rust on Dutchman panel, not easy, repaint and DO NOT put new vinyl top on. This car is in very good condition and the last of the big GPs. I love it. But even with a highway gear, you better have plenty of money for gasoline. I had a 77 SJ with a 400. I don’t drive fast anymore, but it never passed a gas station. Such a great time for Pontiac. Now all I see on the road are Kias, Hondas and Hyundais. BORING.

    Like 0

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