The 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was a personal luxury car produced by Pontiac, a division of General Motors. It was the fifth generation of the Grand Prix, and it was produced from 1978 to 1983. The 1979 model year saw several changes to the Grand Prix, including a new front grille, revised taillights, and a new interior.
The 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was available in two trim levels: base and SJ. The base model came standard with a 155-horsepower 4.9-liter V8 engine, while the SJ model came with a more powerful 200-horsepower 6.6-liter V8 engine. Both models were available with a three-speed automatic transmission or a four-speed manual transmission.
The 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was a popular car, with over 112,000 units produced. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and powerful performance. Today, the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix is a sought-after classic car by collectors and enthusiasts.
1979 Pontiac Grand Prix
The 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was a significant car for Pontiac, and it remains a popular classic car today. Here are eight key aspects of the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix:
- Stylish design: The 1979 Grand Prix had a sleek and stylish design that was popular with buyers.
- Comfortable interior: The Grand Prix’s interior was spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
- Powerful performance: The Grand Prix was available with a variety of powerful V8 engines, giving it plenty of power for cruising or passing.
- Popular car: The 1979 Grand Prix was a popular car, with over 112,000 units produced.
- Sought-after classic: Today, the 1979 Grand Prix is a sought-after classic car by collectors and enthusiasts.
- Personal luxury car: The Grand Prix was classified as a personal luxury car, which means it was designed for comfort and style rather than performance.
- Fifth generation: The 1979 Grand Prix was the fifth generation of the Grand Prix, which was first introduced in 1962.
- Pontiac division: The Grand Prix was produced by Pontiac, a division of General Motors.
These eight key aspects highlight the importance of the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix. It was a stylish, comfortable, and powerful car that was popular with buyers. Today, it is a sought-after classic car by collectors and enthusiasts.
Stylish design
The 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was a stylish and popular car. Its sleek design was one of the key factors that contributed to its success. The Grand Prix had a long, low profile with a sloping roofline and a pointed front end. It also featured distinctive opera windows and a wraparound rear window. The Grand Prix’s design was both stylish and functional. It gave the car a sporty and aggressive look, while also providing good visibility and interior space.
-
Facet 1: Exterior design
The Grand Prix’s exterior design was one of its most striking features. The car’s long, low profile and sloping roofline gave it a sporty and aggressive look. The pointed front end and wraparound rear window added to the car’s distinctive style. The Grand Prix also featured unique opera windows, which were a popular design feature in the 1970s.
-
Facet 2: Interior design
The Grand Prix’s interior was also stylish and well-appointed. The car’s interior featured comfortable seats, a spacious cabin, and a variety of amenities. The Grand Prix was also available with a variety of interior options, such as leather seats, a sunroof, and a premium sound system.
-
Facet 3: Color options
The Grand Prix was available in a variety of colors, including several bold and eye-catching hues. Some of the most popular colors for the Grand Prix included black, white, red, and blue. The Grand Prix was also available in a variety of two-tone color combinations.
-
Facet 4: Impact on sales
The Grand Prix’s stylish design was a major factor in its success. The car’s sleek and sporty look appealed to a wide range of buyers. The Grand Prix was also well-priced, which made it an attractive option for buyers who were looking for a stylish and affordable car.
In conclusion, the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was a stylish and popular car. Its sleek design was one of the key factors that contributed to its success. The Grand Prix’s design was both stylish and functional, and it appealed to a wide range of buyers.
Comfortable interior
The 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was known for its comfortable and spacious interior. This was a key selling point for the car, as buyers were looking for cars that were both stylish and practical. The Grand Prix’s interior was designed to provide plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it a great choice for families and people who travel.
One of the most important aspects of the Grand Prix’s interior was its spaciousness. The car had a long wheelbase and a wide body, which gave it plenty of room for passengers in both the front and the back. The seats were also well-padded and supportive, making them comfortable for long trips. The Grand Prix also had a large trunk, which was perfect for storing luggage or groceries.
In addition to being spacious, the Grand Prix’s interior was also very comfortable. The seats were upholstered in high-quality materials, and the car came with a variety of amenities, such as air conditioning, power windows, and a premium sound system. The Grand Prix was also very well-insulated, which made it a quiet and relaxing place to be.
The comfortable interior of the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was a major selling point for the car. It was a key factor in the car’s success, and it helped to make the Grand Prix one of the most popular cars of its time.
Powerful performance
The 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was known for its powerful performance. This was a key selling point for the car, as buyers were looking for cars that were both stylish and powerful. The Grand Prix was available with a variety of V8 engines, giving it plenty of power for cruising or passing.
The most popular engine for the Grand Prix was the 6.6-liter V8 engine. This engine produced 200 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. It gave the Grand Prix plenty of power for acceleration and passing. The Grand Prix was also available with a smaller 4.9-liter V8 engine, which produced 155 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. This engine was more fuel-efficient than the 6.6-liter V8 engine, but it did not provide as much power.
The powerful performance of the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was a major selling point for the car. It was a key factor in the car’s success, and it helped to make the Grand Prix one of the most popular cars of its time.
In addition to its powerful performance, the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was also known for its stylish design and comfortable interior. These factors, combined with its powerful performance, made the Grand Prix a very popular car with buyers.
Popular car
The popularity of the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix is a testament to its many positive qualities. This car was stylish, comfortable, powerful, and well-priced. As a result, it appealed to a wide range of buyers and became one of the most popular cars of its time.
-
Facet 1: Sales figures
The Grand Prix’s sales figures are a clear indication of its popularity. In 1979, over 112,000 units were produced. This was a significant number for a personal luxury car, and it helped to make the Grand Prix one of the best-selling cars of its time.
-
Facet 2: Consumer reviews
Consumer reviews of the Grand Prix are also very positive. Many owners praised the car’s stylish design, comfortable interior, and powerful performance. The Grand Prix was also known for its reliability and durability, which made it a popular choice for families and people who needed a car that could withstand the rigors of everyday use.
-
Facet 3: Cultural impact
The Grand Prix also had a significant cultural impact. It was featured in several movies and TV shows, and it became a symbol of the American muscle car era. The Grand Prix was also a popular choice for NASCAR drivers, and it helped to make Pontiac one of the most successful brands in NASCAR history.
-
Facet 4: Legacy
The Grand Prix is still a popular car today. It is a sought-after classic car by collectors and enthusiasts. The Grand Prix is also a popular choice for restomodding, which is the process of restoring and modifying a classic car with modern parts and technology.
The popularity of the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix is a testament to its many positive qualities. This car was stylish, comfortable, powerful, and well-priced. As a result, it appealed to a wide range of buyers and became one of the most popular cars of its time.
Sought-after classic
The fact that the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix is a sought-after classic car by collectors and enthusiasts is a testament to its enduring appeal and significance. This connection highlights several key aspects of the 1979 Grand Prix and its place in automotive history.
Firstly, the Grand Prix’s classic status indicates that it is a well-made and desirable car. Collectors and enthusiasts are drawn to classic cars that are not only stylish and powerful, but also well-built and reliable. The Grand Prix meets all of these criteria, which is why it is so popular among collectors.
Secondly, the Grand Prix’s classic status is a reflection of its historical significance. The Grand Prix was one of the most popular cars of its time, and it helped to define the American muscle car era. It is also a significant car in Pontiac’s history, and it played a key role in the brand’s success.
Thirdly, the Grand Prix’s classic status is a sign of its enduring popularity. The Grand Prix is still a popular car today, and it is enjoyed by collectors, enthusiasts, and everyday drivers alike. This enduring popularity is a testament to the Grand Prix’s timeless design, powerful performance, and comfortable interior.
In conclusion, the fact that the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix is a sought-after classic car by collectors and enthusiasts is a testament to its enduring appeal and significance. This connection highlights the Grand Prix’s classic status, historical significance, and enduring popularity.
Personal luxury car
The 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was classified as a personal luxury car. This means that it was designed for comfort and style, rather than performance. This is in contrast to sports cars, which are designed for performance and handling.
-
Facet 1: Design
The Grand Prix was designed with comfort and style in mind. It had a spacious interior with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The seats were upholstered in high-quality materials, and the car came with a variety of amenities, such as air conditioning, power windows, and a premium sound system. The Grand Prix also had a stylish exterior design, with a long, low profile and a sleek roofline.
-
Facet 2: Performance
The Grand Prix was not designed for performance. It had a powerful engine, but it was not as powerful as the engines in sports cars. The Grand Prix was also not as agile as sports cars, and it did not handle as well. However, the Grand Prix was still a very capable car, and it could easily handle everyday driving.
-
Facet 3: Target market
The Grand Prix was designed for a specific target market. It was designed for people who wanted a stylish and comfortable car, but who did not need a high-performance car. The Grand Prix was also a good choice for people who wanted a car that was easy to drive and maintain.
-
Facet 4: Historical significance
The Grand Prix was a significant car in the history of Pontiac. It was one of the most popular cars of its time, and it helped to define the American personal luxury car market. The Grand Prix is still a popular car today, and it is a sought-after classic car by collectors.
In conclusion, the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was a personal luxury car that was designed for comfort and style, rather than performance. It was a popular car in its time, and it is still a sought-after classic car today.
Fifth generation
The 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was the fifth generation of the Grand Prix, which was first introduced in 1962. This connection highlights the Grand Prix’s long and storied history, and it helps to explain why the car is so popular with collectors and enthusiasts today.
-
Facet 1: Historical significance
The Grand Prix is a significant car in Pontiac’s history. It was one of the most popular cars of its time, and it helped to define the American muscle car era. The Grand Prix is also a significant car in the history of personal luxury cars.
-
Facet 2: Design evolution
The 1979 Grand Prix was the fifth generation of the car, and it represented a significant departure from the previous generation. The 1979 Grand Prix was larger and more luxurious than its predecessors, and it featured a more modern and stylish design.
-
Facet 3: Performance
The 1979 Grand Prix was available with a variety of powerful V8 engines, giving it plenty of power for cruising or passing. The Grand Prix was also a very capable handling car, and it could easily handle everyday driving.
-
Facet 4: Collectibility
The 1979 Grand Prix is a sought-after classic car by collectors and enthusiasts. This is due to its historical significance, its stylish design, and its powerful performance. The Grand Prix is a popular choice for collectors who are looking for a classic car that is both stylish and fun to drive.
In conclusion, the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was a significant car in the history of the Grand Prix and personal luxury cars. It represented a major departure from the previous generation, and it featured a more modern and stylish design, more powerful engines, and better handling. Today, the 1979 Grand Prix is a sought-after classic car by collectors and enthusiasts.
Pontiac division
The connection between “Pontiac division: The Grand Prix was produced by Pontiac, a division of General Motors.” and “79 pontiac grand prix” is significant, as it highlights the manufacturer and corporate lineage of the vehicle. This connection provides insights into the car’s origins, design, and production.
-
Manufacturing and Production
The Pontiac Grand Prix was manufactured by the Pontiac division of General Motors, which was responsible for the design, production, and marketing of Pontiac-branded vehicles. This connection indicates that the Grand Prix was an integral part of the Pontiac brand, and that it shared engineering and manufacturing resources with other Pontiac models.
-
Brand Identity
The Grand Prix was produced by Pontiac, a division known for its performance-oriented vehicles, which influenced the car’s design and marketing. Pontiac’s focus on creating sporty and powerful cars shaped the Grand Prix’s character, giving it a distinct identity within the automotive market.
-
Corporate Resources
As a division of General Motors, Pontiac had access to the corporation’s vast resources, including engineering expertise, manufacturing facilities, and financial backing. This connection allowed Pontiac to produce the Grand Prix with high-quality materials and advanced technologies, ensuring its competitiveness in the marketplace.
-
Historical Context
The Grand Prix was introduced in 1962 and underwent several generations of development until its discontinuation in 2002. The 1979 model, specifically, was part of the fifth generation of the Grand Prix, produced from 1978 to 1983. This connection places the “79 pontiac grand prix” within the broader historical context of the Grand Prix’s evolution.
In conclusion, the connection between “Pontiac division: The Grand Prix was produced by Pontiac, a division of General Motors.” and “79 pontiac grand prix” provides valuable insights into the vehicle’s manufacturing, brand identity, corporate resources, and historical context. This information helps us understand the Grand Prix’s significance within the automotive industry and its appeal to car enthusiasts and collectors.
FAQs about the “79 Pontiac Grand Prix”
The “79 Pontiac Grand Prix” was a popular and influential car that is still sought after by collectors today. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about this iconic vehicle:
Question 1: What was the Pontiac Grand Prix’s engine size?
The 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was available with two engine options: a 4.9-liter V8 engine with 155 horsepower and a 6.6-liter V8 engine with 200 horsepower.
Question 2: How many Pontiac Grand Prixs were produced in 1979?
Over 112,000 units of the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix were produced.
Question 3: What are the key features of the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix?
The 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was known for its stylish design, comfortable interior, powerful engine, and spacious trunk.
Question 4: How much did a 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix cost when it was new?
The 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix had a base price of $6,889.
Question 5: What are some common problems with the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix?
Some common problems with the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix include carburetor issues, transmission problems, and rust.
Question 6: What is the value of a 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix today?
The value of a 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix today varies depending on its condition, mileage, and options. However, a well-maintained example can be worth over $20,000.
These FAQs provide a comprehensive overview of the “79 Pontiac Grand Prix,” its key features, production details, and potential value. Whether you’re a collector, enthusiast, or simply curious about this iconic car, these answers will help you gain a better understanding of its significance and legacy.
For more information, resources, and discussions on the “79 Pontiac Grand Prix,” consider joining online forums, visiting classic car shows, and consulting automotive publications.
Valuable Tips for “79 Pontiac Grand Prix” Ownership and Maintenance
Owning and maintaining a “79 Pontiac Grand Prix” can be a rewarding experience. Here are some valuable tips to help you optimize your classic car ownership:
Tip 1: Regular Maintenance and Inspections
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your “79 Grand Prix.” Adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks. Additionally, have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic at least once a year to identify and address any potential issues early on.
Tip 2: Preserve the Paint and Body
The “79 Grand Prix” is known for its stylish design, so it’s essential to preserve its exterior appearance. Wash and wax your vehicle regularly to protect the paint from UV rays, dirt, and debris. Consider applying a ceramic coating or paint protection film for enhanced protection against scratches and oxidation.
Tip 3: Monitor Fluid Levels and Leaks
Regularly check your vehicle’s fluid levels, including oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. If you notice any leaks or significant drops in fluid levels, address the issue promptly. Ignoring fluid leaks can lead to costly repairs and potential engine damage.
Tip 4: Maintain the Engine
The powerful V8 engine of the “79 Grand Prix” requires proper maintenance to perform at its best. Use high-quality oil and filters, and replace spark plugs and ignition components as recommended. Consider using fuel additives to keep the fuel system clean and prevent injector clogging.
Tip 5: Restore and Upgrade Wisely
If you’re planning to restore or upgrade your “79 Grand Prix,” do your research and choose reputable parts and components. Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are ideal for maintaining authenticity, while aftermarket upgrades can enhance performance and functionality. Seek guidance from experienced mechanics or join online forums for expert advice.
Tip 6: Find a Qualified Mechanic
Working on a classic car like the “79 Grand Prix” may require specialized knowledge and skills. Find a qualified mechanic who is familiar with this model and has experience in servicing vintage vehicles. A knowledgeable mechanic can help you troubleshoot issues, perform repairs, and maintain your vehicle to a high standard.
Tip 7: Protect Your Investment
Consider insuring your “79 Pontiac Grand Prix” with a classic car insurance policy. This type of insurance typically provides more comprehensive coverage tailored to the needs of classic vehicle owners. It can protect your vehicle against theft, damage, and other risks.
Tip 8: Join the Community
Connect with other “79 Grand Prix” owners and enthusiasts by joining online forums, attending car shows, or participating in local car clubs. Sharing knowledge, experiences, and resources with fellow owners can be invaluable for maintaining and enjoying your classic car.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your “79 Pontiac Grand Prix” remains a cherished and reliable companion for years to come. Remember, regular maintenance, proper care, and a knowledgeable support system will enhance your ownership experience and preserve the legacy of this iconic classic car.
Conclusion
The 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix stands as a testament to American automotive ingenuity and the enduring legacy of classic cars. With its sleek design, powerful performance, comfortable interior, and spacious trunk, the Grand Prix solidified its place in automotive history.
As we reflect on the significance of the “79 Pontiac Grand Prix,” we recognize its impact on popular culture, its role in defining the personal luxury car segment, and its continued appeal among collectors and enthusiasts. The Grand Prix serves as a reminder of the golden era of American muscle cars, showcasing the power and style that captivated a generation of drivers.