I’ve previously discussed how I find classic cars with known ownership histories attractive, and many potential buyers share that sentiment. However, it sometimes doesn’t translate into feverish bidding activity when the time comes for an owner to part with their pride and joy. Such is the case with this 1974 Pontiac Grand Am Colonnade Coupe. It is an original survivor with no urgent needs and would suit an enthusiast seeking something rarer than the average Trans Am. The seller listed it here on eBay in Barnhart, Missouri. It has received a solitary bid of $11,500 in a No Reserve auction. With time remaining before the hammer falls, the subdued action means someone could become this Pontiac’s new owner by submitting a single bid.
Pontiac introduced the Grand Am in 1973. They based the car on its A-Body platform, integrating the Grand Prix and Trans Am into one package designed to tackle head-on Japanese and European models combining luxury and performance. Sales during the first year were respectable but collapsed by a staggering 60% in 1974. The following year was even worse, prompting the company to ax the plate after three years. This Grand Am is 1-of-13,961 Colonnade Coupes produced in 1974. It wears Ascot Silver paint with a matching vinyl top. The seller states the original owner performed a repaint in 2005, and it still holds a healthy shine. It isn’t perfect but has a few marks and imperfections the new owner could tackle at their leisure. The panels are straight, but the “Endura” nose has many cracks requiring attention. Contacting a specialist to determine whether it is salvageable could be a good start. However, the new owner may need to brace themselves and spend around $800 on a high-quality fiberglass reproduction. The rest of the exterior trim is suitable for a survivor-grade classic, and the only rust is some tiny bubbles on one lower front fender.
One aspect of this Pontiac requiring no cosmetic attention is its interior. The original owner ordered it trimmed in Red vinyl, and its condition is impressive for its age. There are no rips, tears, marks, splits, or signs of UV damage or abuse. The dash and pad look excellent, the console is spotless, and the faux woodgrain has not faded or lifted. Any flaws are functional, including an inoperative speedometer, a non-functioning factory AM radio, and the fan doesn’t work on “high.” It isn’t weighed down with luxury appointments by modern standards, but the bucket seats, console, and ice-cold air conditioning were rated highly in 1974.
This Grand Am emerged during The Malaise Era, making the power output from its 400ci V8 of 175hp unsurprising. However, buyers could order their new toy with more potent versions of the 400 and could even opt for a 455ci V8 if they craved something extra under the right foot. The company offered no manual transmission, so buyers received a three-speed Hydramatic. When combined with power steering and power brakes, this Grand Am should be a relaxed long-distance cruiser. The seller indicates that they have performed many tasks during their six years of ownership to ensure the car is mechanically sound. They replaced the rear springs, tires, brakes, battery, two motor mounts, and the A-Arm bushings on both sides. The engine and transmission drip slightly, but this is unsurprising in an original vehicle with nearly five decades under its belt. Otherwise, it is a turnkey proposition the seller describes as fun to drive. The winning bidder could fly in and build a relationship with their new purchase by driving it home.
With a 1974 sales total of 13,961 versus 10,255, more people handed over their cash for a Pontiac Grand Am Coupe than the more iconic Trans Am. However, more people have preserved the Trans Am, meaning these cars rarely hit the market. Considering its originality and minor needs, the bidding could drag its way to $15,000 if enough people become interested. Otherwise, somebody could secure it with a single bid well below that figure. Are you tempted to try your luck and see if you can strike automotive gold?
Leave a Reply to Rosalia Cancel reply