We always appreciate the input from our readers at Barn Finds. The simple fact is that we, as writers, can’t always spot great classics to feature, and we can’t know everything about every car produced. Therefore, not only are you there to steer us straight when we make catastrophic errors, but you are also a wonderful resource, spotting great vehicles that are a privilege to write about. Therefore, I must say a big thank you to eagle-eyed Barn Finder T.J. for bringing this stunning 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix to our attention. The seller has been its custodian for forty-seven years, performing upgrades that will unlock improved performance. Having had their fun, the time has come for the Pontiac to find a new home. They have listed it here on Craigslist in Buffalo, New York. They set their price at $27,500 for a car that is guaranteed to turn heads.
Pontiac’s Third Generation Grand Prix graced showroom floors from 1969 until 1972, with vehicles undergoing annual changes to ensure a fresh appearance. This final-year example was ordered by its original owner in Wilderness Green, with the seller its custodian for an impressive forty-seven years. They know the car’s history, confirming that it has been garage-kept since Day One. That has kept rust problems at bay, with the seller confirming that the Grand Prix is a solid as the day it left the factory. They don’t mention any form of restoration, and there is no arguing how beautifully this classic presents. The paint glows, the bright trim looks flawless, and the tinted glass is free from visible defects. The Rally II wheels add greater presence to a car that is already guaranteed to draw attention, with the new BF Goodrich Redline tires providing a classy finishing touch to the exterior.
The options list for the 1972 Grand Prix was as long as your arm, and although this car doesn’t score air conditioning, it did leave the showroom with power windows, bucket seats, a console, a tilt wheel, and an AM radio. It is trimmed in perforated Black vinyl, a new feature introduced for the 1972 model year. The seller emphasizes the overall condition, and while I’m unsure if I would describe it as “factory-fresh,” I can’t see any problems or issues. The upholstered surfaces are spotless, the faux woodgrain appears perfect, and the dash hasn’t succumbed to UV exposure. Purists will welcome the news that there are no aftermarket additions.
The Grand Prix was V8-only territory, with this 1972 model featuring the entry-level 400ci powerplants. It also features a three-speed Hydramatic transmission and power assistance for the steering and brakes, all of which were standard equipment. However, the first owner’s decision to opt for a 3.08 Posi rear end should ensure that not only would the 400 apply its 250hp and 325 ft/lbs of torque to Planet Earth effectively, but that this Pontiac should have long legs on the open road. The seller confirms that while this beauty is numbers-matching, the motor now wears high-compression cylinder heads from 1966. It also inhales through an Edelbrock Performer intake, topped with Holley Sniper fuel injection. Throw an upgraded camshaft, lifters, and a custom dual exhaust into the mix, and there is sure to be plenty of extra ponies under the driver’s right foot. The seller didn’t limit their attention to the engine, with the suspension receiving Ridetech adjustable shocks, new rear springs, and BMR stabilizers at either end. The brakes have been replaced, as has the battery. The seller states that they would drive this Pontiac anywhere, meaning that you could fly in, hand over the cash, and drive it home.
It would have seemed unthinkable when this Pontiac Grand Prix rolled off the line in 1972 that the marque that once marketed excitement would disappear in the new millennium with barely a whimper. However, that was the fate suffered by Pontiac, and it rates as one of the saddest days in American motoring history. There is no evidence suggesting that General Motors is considering a revival, making preserving its heritage more crucial with each passing year. This 1972 Grand Prix is deserving of such treatment, ensuring that future generations of enthusiasts gain a clear insight into what was lost to financial rationalism. Someone needs to grab the baton and run with it, but could you be that person?
This generation of the Grand Prix has always been a favorite. I remember the magazine articles when they were introduced; I thought they looked great inside and out, and my opinion hasn’t changed. This example in dark green with the redline tires looks good.
A comment about your first sentences Adam. I’m continually amazed at how much the Barn Finds writers get right on a given car. Obviously they don’t possess all knowledge on all vehicles, but errors are few. Unfortunately some commenters inappropriately take them to task when an error is made (“everyone knows that the 1969 Belchfire V8’s radio bezel was silver but the six-cylinder’s was black, until March 23 when all were changed to silver”). Keep up the good work, we enjoy it.
Bob you struck a nerve with me. I totally agree. Theres a “polite” way of doing things….. And then…… Not so much…… I try to be polite, or subtle if I find something I know is different or make a correction, and sure hope I haven’t offended ANY of the writers on this staff or commentors on here either. I’ve said before and will say again I appreciate the hours all of the writers spent researching a vehicle, not matter what it is, in order to write it up. It takes time. I also want to say thank you to all those who find these cars and trucks and tractors and motorcycles and bicycles and railroad equipment….. And….. well….. You know…. T J, Howard, and so many others, you all find many interesting finds, again its time, and I appreciate it. As for this Grand Prix, absolutely gorgeous!!! The work they did on the 400 I’m sure took an already healthy engine, and made it even healthier. Beautiful body and interior too!! I enjoyed your write up (as usual) Adam. Thank you.
-Dave
Sorry, Bob, but the black radio bezels appeared in the six-cylinder cars through the summer of 1969, according to my uncle’s neighbor whose cousin worked in the bezel stamping plant!
Good Grief!!! Lol … And for the record. My neighbors Uncles Cousin second removed on their Mothers side supports what Bob said, except one extra one was produced on March 24th. And that particular one is actually worth about $1.98 more according the Haggerty. Lol
To me these are the best of the GM sporty luxury cars of this period. Rugged good looks with the performance of a muscle car when optioned correctly. I think the price on this one is reasonable if is as nice as it looks.
With the optional 428 it was a beast equal to the GS and SS’s.
The previous Grand Prix(s) ( 1962-’68) were a cool full sized cars but for the ’69 model year Pontiac’s G.M.John DeLorean wanted a brand new car based on the intermediate platform. What a beautiful cars those were (as this one is). :-) Terry J
I could not afford to drive that daily in the San Francisco peninsula area with gas prices around $5.00/gal
Considering the condition and the very solid upgrades, I’d say it is worth every penny. It would certainly draw attention at any local show or meet.
Very nice clean Pontiac and the price seems right for the shape of it and all the work that has been done to it! It is one I would buy if I was looking for one !
nice especially with no top. had a 72 in high school what great car. this car though with a black gut and no a/c is going to be a hot 1 in the summer. needs a set of pin stripe w/w tires. the red lines look out of place imo.
I owned a ’72 Grand Prix. Light blue, white vinyl top, white leather interior. Loaded up with 4 of us and all our ski gear, headed up the Sherwin Grade (Eastern Sierra on the 395) on our way to Mammoth, it was a beast able to pass anything on the road with ease and luxury. When mentioning the options list, I was surprised Adam didn’t use the “long hood” instead of “long arm”.
I tried really hard, looking at the CL pics to find an issue with the paint that would indicate it was repainted. I couldn’t find any tell tale issues. I did the same for the chrome. Still no issues. The interior looks great! The engine bay and trunk, ditto.
What a beautiful, well cared for car!
(and the bezel’s all look good, too!)
This a great car with plenty of style and power to boot. Great color and a great (still great) MFG Pontiac. I believe it was the fact that Buick sold better over the big pond then Pontiac, Go Figure, as far as our writers without their good write ups we wouldn’t have BF’s. We all share the same hobby lets just enjoy the ride.
Car is located in Arlington Heights IL, London Motors according to tag and craigslist listing, not Buffalo, NY.
I was just going to post that.
https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/f03a1931-1080-42f3-b22c-6b6ddff1edfa/
I believe the Grand Prix was available with a 3 speed and a 4 speed manual transmission.
I don’t think the antenna on the left rear quarter panel is original equipment. These had the antenna in the windshield if I’m not mistaken. Very nice looking GP and reasonably priced.