This 1977 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ is a classic deserving a close look. It presents very nicely, and it appears to be rust-free. However, the low-mile replacement 400ci V8 under its hood could be its trump card. It makes this Pontiac a turnkey proposition that runs and drives well. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Bruce M for spotting the Grand Prix listed here on Facebook Marketplace in Torrington, Connecticut. At $6,500, this classic undoubtedly falls into the affordable category.

Pontiac’s Fourth Generation Grand Prix range graced showroom floors from 1973 until 1977, with our feature car rolling off the lot during the final year. Its history is unclear, meaning there is no information supplied on whether it has undergone repairs or restoration. However, the lack of visible deterioration to the Code 58 Blue paint and matching Landau-style vinyl top may indicate that this classic has received some cosmetic TLC. The panels are straight, and there is no evidence of developing rust. The chrome sparkles impressively, the tinted glass is clear, and this Grand Prix sits on a set of excellent Rally II wheels.

This Pontiac’s weakest point could be its interior, although it is far from horrendous. It is definitely serviceable, with no pressing needs or shortcomings. Items requiring attention include the headliner, the carpet, and the front seatcovers. The headliner is a candidate for replacement, which would lighten the owner’s wallet by around $275. Throwing in a new carpet set adds $225 to the tally, but a complete seatcover set costs an eye-watering $800. Personally, I’d splash my cash on the carpet and headliner, but would fit some high-quality slipcovers to disguise the upholstery shortcomings. That would lift the appearance significantly without breaking the bank. Life aboard this classic should be quite pleasant, with the car featuring air conditioning, power windows, cruise control, a tilt wheel, a rear defogger, and a more modern Bluetooth stereo.

Frustratingly, the seller supplies no engine photos in their listing. It appears the first owner ordered this classic with a 400ci V8 which sent 180hp and 325 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission. Performance could best be described as modest, although that was a common theme across almost every vehicle that rolled off an American production line during this period. It is worth noting that this classic isn’t numbers-matching. The original engine has made way for a similar unit that the seller claims is of 1973 or 1974 vintage. However, the casting number doesn’t gel with this or any other Pontiac V8 from this era according to my resources. It has only clocked around 19,000 miles since receiving a rebuild, with the embedded video in their listing confirming that it runs perfectly. Potential buyers can consider this Grand Prix as a turnkey proposition that can be enjoyed immediately.

The 1977 model year was a banner one for the Grand Prix, with the badge setting a new sales record of 288,430. Of those, 53,442 buyers handed over the cash for the SJ variant. This one could be considered a genuine survivor if it weren’t for the replacement engine. However, it is unquestionably a tidy driver. That the new owner could easily and relatively cheaply lift its interior presentation adds to its appeal. The seller’s price looks affordable, but are those factors enough to tempt you to park this Grand Prix in your garage as a New Year’s project?