Set the wayback machine to 1976 and all a couple needed to celebrate the Bicentennial in style was a blue leisure suit and blue polyester pantsuit to compliment the Firethorn Red and white Landau vinyl top of this ’76 Pontiac Grand Prix. It’s a beauty, especially if you like red, and is currently located in Marshfield, Missouri. It’s for sale here on craigslist for $17,500 although the seller says that he/she “may be willing to trade up or down for the right vehicle, but prefer to sell outright.” Another shout out to Rocco B for sending this Bicentennial Beauty our way.

By the 1976 model year, Pontiac was on its fourth year of the fourth generation Grand Prix that had been restyled for 1973. The biggest news from the styling department was the front end which featured new dual rectangular headlamps and a “bold” waterfall-looking new grille. Other sales brochure highlights touted a formal roofline, monogrammed rear quarter windows, and a stand-up hood ornament. I like the looks of this Grand Prix. The seller says that the paint choice, Firethorn Red, is rare and in excellent condition. I’m not sure about the rare claim, but I can’t argue with the car’s shine and straight body and there’s nothing I’m spotting that would raise any Firethorn red flags. Body-colored Rally II wheels were new for ’76 and they contrast the car nicely as does the white Landau vinyl roof.

I’ve always liked the cockpit of the Grand Prix and this one is red, comfy, pure 1970’s, and in very good condition. The wraparound instrument panel and dash look great as do the Morrokide bucket seats, door panels, plush red carpet, console with a floor-mounted automatic transmission shifter, and, of course, a tasteful dose of faux wood trim. This GP has AC, power windows, power steering and power brakes that I assume all work. Pontiac boasted in their advertising that “its plush seating and interior would have made Duesenberg proud.” I’m not sure about that, but this is a great-looking mid-70’s era interior.

The seller is very skimpy on the Pontiac’s history, details, and specs and only lists the engine as “8 cylinders with 109,000 miles.” I’m not sure of the trim level, so I’m guessing it’s either a 350 or 400-cubic inch V8. It’s mated to a Turbo Hydra-Matic transmission. The seller says it “runs and drives great, floats down the interstate with ease” and I’d believe it. A friend of mine bought a new ’77 Grand Prix and it was one smooth driving and riding automobile. The word “floating” described the driving and riding experience perfectly. Happy Bidding!