Rotisserie Build: 1969 Pontiac Grand Prix Model SJ

Disclosure: This site may receive compensation from some link clicks and purchases.

We always welcome our readers’ input at Barn Finds because, without you, the site wouldn’t exist. Whether it is through leads or by correcting the times when I make monumental mistakes, you help us grow into better writers with greater knowledge. Therefore, I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this stunning 1969 Pontiac Grand Prix Model SJ. It recently surfaced following a rotisserie refurbishment and is set to find a new home. The seller has listed the Pontiac here on eBay in Waterbury, Connecticut. They set their price at $26,950 for a classic that appears to need nothing.

Pontiac released its first Grand Prix in 1962 as its entry into the Personal Luxury Car class. Its replacement hit showroom floors in 1965, with the company unveiling the Third Generation for the 1969 model year. It emerged at a time when Detroit was hitting the ground running. John DeLorean greenlighted the latest offering in 1967 and, by using a slightly stretched version of the A-Body platform and mechanical components from the GTO, Tempest, and LeMans, the company slashed the development timeframe from a typical 36 months to a mere 18. This first-year example recently emerged following a rotisserie refurbishment and presents superbly. The paint shade gracing the exterior doesn’t appear on the 1969 Grand Prix Color Chart, but it looks stunning when teamed with a Cordovan vinyl top. Finding any flaws or faults is seemingly impossible. The paint shines deeply, the panels are straight, the vinyl isn’t split or damaged, and the underside shots confirm that this Grand Prix is rust-free. The bright trim sparkles as impressively as the paint, and the Rally II wheels are spotless.

The positive vibes continue inside this Grand Prix. Its interior features air conditioning, bucket seats, a console, a tilt wheel, cloth seat trim, and an aftermarket CD player. There is no evidence of wear or other shortcomings, and I question whether the back seat has seen occupants since the build ended. Dashpads can wave the white flag in the face of age or long-term UV exposure, but this car hasn’t suffered that fate. I would describe this interior as crisp, clean, and in need of nothing cosmetically. The seller confirms that the fuel gauge is pegged at full, and that the A/C blower motor is inoperative. Addressing those issues shouldn’t be difficult, representing a productive way to occupy time during winter.

Powering this Grand Prix is Pontiac’s legendary 400ci V8. The motor is paired with a three-speed automatic transmission, with power steering and power brakes, emphasizing the car’s luxury leanings. That year’s Sales Brochure quotes a power output of 350hp, although there were more potent options for those wishing to splash extra cash. The seller confirms that a previous owner swapped in a replacement 400, equipping it with an Edelbrock Performer intake, a Mallory Promaster ignition coil, and a range of cosmetic enhancements. This Pontiac is a turnkey proposition, as demonstrated in this YouTube video. The car rolls along smoothly, the engine sounds as sweet as a nut, and the vehicle is free from the typical rattles and squeaks that often develop with age.

I was raised in a household where Ford ruled the roost. My father ignited my passion when I was a lad, and it has grown stronger with each passing year. Although I will always have a soft spot for cars wearing the Blue Oval badge, I am, first and foremost, a classic enthusiast. Therefore, I will never ignore a vehicle because it emerged from the “wrong” marque. This is particularly true when the brand has faded into history, as is the case with Pontiac. It gave us icons like the GTO and the Trans Am, deserving better than to end its days with a pitiful whimper. I have always believed that it is imperative to preserve as many of its vehicles as possible, so that future generations of enthusiasts can gain insight into what the motoring world has lost. This 1969 Grand Prix Model SJ offers someone the opportunity to actively participate in that process by purchasing a classic where the hard work is complete, and there is nothing to do but hit the road to enjoy the classic motoring experience. Does that prospect tempt you?

Auctions Ending Soon

Comments

  1. Steve R

    It would have left the factory with a 428 and 12 bolt rear end, their absences might explain the asking price. It looks nice in the pictures, hopefully it’s as nice in person. Make a few changes such as an OE style dual snorkel air cleaner and chrome valve covers, plus put on the correct trim rings and center caps. None of those will be cost prohibitive, but are a better fit for a car like this. I’d also want to see some form of PHS documentation.

    Steve R

    Like 17
  2. Will

    Probably a model J. Anybody can slap SJ emblems on a car. Still pretty, for about $5000 less.

    Like 8
  3. Class_room

    Whoa. This is an algamation of a ’69, ’70 and Custom. Just like a model kit! The SJ badges are where they should be on a ’70. ’73-up brushed trim rings, custom tail lights (or lenses) without a white back up lens. Cornering lenses are not white, but amber. If I zoom in, I see factory gauges. That’s a BOP 10 bolt back there – 2.73 or 3.08 is most likely. I would like the factory wheel opening moldings installed like they should be, they finish the out the car. This was somebody’s dream, and all can be fixed for a price.

    Like 7
  4. Dave Brown

    Why are the seat surfaces upholstered in velour? That’s not right!

    Like 11
  5. Nelson C

    The color is more brown than bronze. Maybe a mid seventies Cadillac firemist shade. These Grand Prix are good looking cars. First fix the taillights and upholstery.

    Like 2
  6. Dennis6605

    Previous owner must of owned a chrome shop with drive shaft, gas tank straps, inner fender wells, and brake booster all being chromed.

    Like 5
  7. hairyolds68

    nice color and 1 of the best year G/P s but way too many mods and liberties taken here. it would be costly to put it back to as delivered. this has been for sale for a while. they will find somebody to buy it just not me

    Like 3

Leave A Comment

RULES: No profanity, politics, or personal attacks.

Become a member to add images to your comments.

*

Barn Finds