The 1987 Pontiac Grand Am was a mid-size coupe and sedan produced by General Motors. It was the second generation of the Grand Am, and it was available in both two-door and four-door configurations. The Grand Am was powered by a variety of engines, including a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter V6, and a 3.8-liter V6. It was offered with a choice of a five-speed manual transmission or a three-speed automatic transmission.
The 1987 Grand Am was a popular car, with over 100,000 units sold in its first year of production. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and good performance. The Grand Am was also relatively affordable, making it a good value for money. However, the Grand Am was criticized for its poor fuel economy and its lack of standard safety features.
The 1987 Grand Am is a significant car in the history of Pontiac. It was the first Grand Am to be offered as a sedan, and it helped to establish the Grand Am as a popular mid-size car. The Grand Am was also one of the first cars to be equipped with a driver’s side airbag, which helped to improve safety.
1987 Grand Am
The 1987 Grand Am, a significant car in Pontiac’s history, introduced key aspects that shaped its identity and resonated with consumers.
- Stylish Design: Pontiac’s signature sleek lines and sporty stance.
- Comfortable Interior: Roomy cabin with plush seats and user-friendly controls.
- Variety of Engines: Options ranging from efficient four-cylinders to powerful V6s.
- Sedan and Coupe Body Styles: Catering to diverse preferences and needs.
- Affordable Pricing: Value for money proposition that boosted its popularity.
- Safety Features: Driver’s side airbag, a pioneering safety measure.
- Mid-Size Dimensions: Balanced size offering practicality and maneuverability.
- Popular Choice: Over 100,000 units sold in its first year, reflecting its market success.
These key aspects intertwined to establish the 1987 Grand Am as a well-rounded car. Its stylish design and comfortable interior made it a desirable choice, while its range of engines and body styles ensured it met diverse needs. The affordable pricing and inclusion of safety features further enhanced its appeal. Ultimately, the combination of these aspects contributed to the 1987 Grand Am’s success and its lasting legacy as a notable Pontiac model.
Stylish Design
The 1987 Grand Am embodied Pontiac’s commitment to stylish design with its sleek lines and sporty stance. Pontiac designers skillfully crafted a car that exuded both elegance and athleticism, appealing to buyers seeking a car that stood out on the road.
The signature sleek lines of the Grand Am gave it a dynamic and aerodynamic profile. The sloping roofline, curved fenders, and smooth body panels created a cohesive form that hinted at speed and agility. Pontiac’s design team also incorporated sporty elements, such as a muscular hood and pronounced wheel arches, which further enhanced the car’s aggressive stance.
The stylish design of the 1987 Grand Am was not merely an aesthetic pursuit; it also served a practical purpose. The sleek lines reduced wind resistance, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and performance. The sporty stance, with its wide track and low center of gravity, enhanced handling and stability, providing drivers with a more engaging and responsive driving experience.
The connection between the stylish design of the 1987 Grand Am and its success cannot be overstated. The car’s striking appearance and sporty demeanor resonated with buyers, contributing to its popularity and establishing it as a significant model in Pontiac’s history.
Comfortable Interior
The 1987 Grand Am was renowned for its comfortable interior, a key factor that contributed to its success and popularity. Pontiac designers prioritized passenger comfort and convenience, creating a cabin that was both spacious and inviting.
- Spacious Cabin: The Grand Am’s interior was designed to provide ample space for both front and rear passengers. Legroom, headroom, and shoulder room were generous, ensuring a comfortable ride even on long journeys.
- Plush Seats: Pontiac upholstered the Grand Am’s seats in high-quality materials, providing excellent support and comfort. The seats were designed to reduce fatigue and enhance the overall driving experience.
- User-Friendly Controls: The Grand Am’s dashboard and center console were laid out with user-friendly controls. Buttons, knobs, and switches were within easy reach of the driver, minimizing distraction and maximizing convenience.
The comfortable interior of the 1987 Grand Am was not merely a luxury feature; it played a vital role in the car’s overall appeal. Pontiac understood that buyers sought not only a stylish and powerful car but also one that provided a pleasant and comfortable driving experience. By prioritizing passenger comfort, Pontiac created a car that resonated with buyers, contributing to its success and establishing it as a significant model in Pontiac’s history.
Variety of Engines
The 1987 Grand Am was offered with a variety of engine options, ranging from efficient four-cylinders to powerful V6s. This gave buyers the flexibility to choose the engine that best suited their needs and preferences, whether it was fuel efficiency, performance, or a balance of both. As a result, the 1987 Grand Am appealed to a wider range of buyers, contributing to its popularity and success.
The efficient four-cylinder engines were ideal for buyers who prioritized fuel economy. These engines provided adequate power for everyday driving while delivering impressive gas mileage, making the Grand Am an economical choice for budget-conscious buyers and those who frequently drove long distances.
On the other hand, the powerful V6 engines catered to buyers who desired performance and acceleration. These engines delivered ample horsepower and torque, enabling the Grand Am to accelerate quickly and smoothly. They were particularly popular among driving enthusiasts and those who sought a more exhilarating driving experience.
The availability of a variety of engine options was a significant advantage for the 1987 Grand Am. It allowed Pontiac to target a broader customer base and meet the diverse needs of buyers. By offering both efficient and powerful engines, Pontiac ensured that the Grand Am had something to offer everyone, contributing to its success and establishing it as a versatile and well-rounded car.
Sedan and Coupe Body Styles
The 1987 Grand Am was offered in both sedan and coupe body styles, a strategic move by Pontiac that catered to diverse buyer preferences and needs. This decision played a significant role in the car’s popularity and success, as it allowed Pontiac to target a broader customer base and meet the varying demands of the market.
- Practicality and Space: The sedan body style provided buyers with a practical and spacious option. With four doors and a , the sedan was ideal for families, commuters, and those who frequently transported passengers or cargo.
- Sportiness and Style: The coupe body style, with its sleek lines and two doors, exuded sportiness and style. It appealed to buyers who prioritized aesthetics, performance, and a more engaging driving experience.
- Versatility and Flexibility: Both the sedan and coupe body styles offered versatility and flexibility to buyers. The sedan provided a comfortable and practical option for everyday use, while the coupe offered a sportier and stylish alternative for weekend getaways or leisure activities.
- Broader Appeal: By offering both sedan and coupe body styles, Pontiac broadened the appeal of the 1987 Grand Am. It attracted a wider range of buyers, from families seeking a practical and spacious car to enthusiasts desiring a stylish and sporty vehicle.
The availability of sedan and coupe body styles in the 1987 Grand Am was a key factor in its success. Pontiac’s strategic decision to offer diverse body styles allowed the car to cater to a wider range of buyer preferences and needs, ultimately contributing to its popularity and establishing it as a versatile and well-rounded model in the market.
Affordable Pricing
The 1987 Grand Am’s affordable pricing was a strategic move by Pontiac that significantly contributed to its popularity and success. Pontiac recognized the importance of value for money, offering a well-equipped car at a competitive price point.
- Competitive Pricing: The 1987 Grand Am was priced lower than many of its competitors in the mid-size car segment. This made it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who sought a stylish, comfortable, and well-performing car without breaking the bank.
- Value for Money: Despite its affordable price, the Grand Am offered a generous list of standard features, including power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and a premium sound system. This combination of affordability and value for money made the Grand Am a compelling choice for buyers seeking a practical and well-equipped car.
- Broadened Customer Base: The affordable pricing of the 1987 Grand Am allowed Pontiac to reach a broader customer base. It appealed to first-time car buyers, families, and budget-conscious consumers who might not have considered Pontiac otherwise.
- Increased Sales: The combination of affordable pricing and value for money resulted in increased sales for the 1987 Grand Am. Pontiac sold over 100,000 units in its first year of production, a testament to its popularity and success.
The affordable pricing of the 1987 Grand Am was a key factor in its success. Pontiac’s strategic decision to offer a well-equipped car at a competitive price point resonated with buyers, contributing to its popularity and establishing it as a value-oriented and budget-friendly option in the mid-size car segment.
Safety Features
The 1987 Grand Am marked a significant milestone in automotive safety with the introduction of a driver’s side airbag, a pioneering safety measure that would revolutionize the industry and enhance occupant protection.
- Protection in Frontal Collisions: The driver’s side airbag was designed to deploy rapidly in the event of a frontal collision, providing a vital buffer between the driver and the steering wheel or dashboard. This feature significantly reduced the risk of severe head and chest injuries.
- Enhanced Safety Standards: The inclusion of a driver’s side airbag in the 1987 Grand Am set a new benchmark for safety in the automotive industry. It prompted other manufacturers to follow suit, leading to the widespread adoption of airbags as a standard safety feature.
- Consumer Confidence and Trust: The availability of a driver’s side airbag in the 1987 Grand Am instilled confidence and trust among consumers. It demonstrated Pontiac’s commitment to passenger safety and reinforced the Grand Am’s reputation as a reliable and well-protected vehicle.
- Technological Advancement: The driver’s side airbag in the 1987 Grand Am showcased Pontiac’s commitment to innovation and technological advancement. It represented a significant step forward in vehicle safety and paved the way for even more advanced safety systems in the future.
The introduction of a driver’s side airbag in the 1987 Grand Am played a pivotal role in enhancing occupant protection and setting new safety standards in the automotive industry. It demonstrated Pontiac’s leadership in safety innovation and solidified the Grand Am’s position as a well-protected and reliable vehicle.
Mid-Size Dimensions
The 1987 Grand Am’s mid-size dimensions played a crucial role in its overall appeal and success. Pontiac designers skillfully balanced practicality and maneuverability, creating a car that was both spacious and agile.
The mid-size dimensions provided ample interior space for passengers and cargo. The cabin offered generous headroom, legroom, and shoulder room, ensuring a comfortable ride for all occupants. The trunk was also suitably sized, accommodating luggage and other belongings with ease.
Despite its spacious interior, the 1987 Grand Am maintained a compact footprint. Its maneuverability was enhanced by its well-balanced chassis and responsive steering. This made it easy to navigate through city streets and tight parking spaces, a significant advantage for everyday driving.
The mid-size dimensions of the 1987 Grand Am offered a practical solution for families and individuals seeking a car that combined practicality and maneuverability. It provided a comfortable and spacious interior for daily commutes, errands, and road trips, while its compact size made it easy to maneuver and park in urban environments.
Popular Choice
The 1987 Grand Am’s impressive sales figures, with over 100,000 units sold in its first year, serve as a testament to its market success and wide acceptance among consumers. This remarkable achievement can be attributed to a combination of factors that resonated with buyers, solidifying the Grand Am’s position as a popular choice.
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Stylish Design and Sporty Stance
The Grand Am’s sleek lines, sporty stance, and aggressive profile exuded an undeniable appeal that captivated buyers. Its striking exterior design set it apart from competitors and created a strong visual presence on the road.
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Comfortable and Well-Equipped Interior
The Grand Am’s interior offered a comfortable and well-appointed cabin, featuring plush seats, ample space, and user-friendly controls. This focus on passenger comfort and convenience made it a desirable choice for families and individuals alike.
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Range of Engine Options
Pontiac’s decision to offer a variety of engine options, from efficient four-cylinders to powerful V6s, provided buyers with the flexibility to choose the performance and fuel economy that best suited their needs.
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Affordable Pricing
The Grand Am’s competitive pricing made it an accessible option for budget-conscious buyers, further contributing to its popularity and broad market appeal.
The 1987 Grand Am’s success was a culmination of its stylish design, comfortable interior, diverse engine options, and affordable pricing. Pontiac’s ability to meet the demands of a wide range of buyers made the Grand Am a popular choice, establishing it as a significant player in the mid-size car segment.
FAQs about the 1987 Pontiac Grand Am
The 1987 Pontiac Grand Am was a popular mid-size car that offered a combination of style, comfort, and affordability. Here are some frequently asked questions about the Grand Am:
Question 1: What engine options were available in the 1987 Grand Am?
The Grand Am was available with a choice of three engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter V6, and a 3.8-liter V6. The 3.8-liter V6 was the most powerful option, offering 165 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque.
Question 2: What are the dimensions of the 1987 Grand Am?
The Grand Am measured 196.7 inches in length, 70.9 inches in width, and 54.2 inches in height. It had a wheelbase of 110.8 inches and a curb weight of approximately 2,800 pounds.
Question 3: What safety features were available in the 1987 Grand Am?
The Grand Am came standard with a driver’s side airbag, which was a significant safety feature at the time. It also offered optional anti-lock brakes and a passenger-side airbag.
Question 4: What is the fuel economy of the 1987 Grand Am?
The fuel economy of the Grand Am varied depending on the engine option and transmission. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a manual transmission had an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
Question 5: What are some common problems with the 1987 Grand Am?
Some common problems with the 1987 Grand Am include issues with the power window motors, fuel pump, and transmission. It is important to have the car regularly serviced and maintained to prevent or address these issues.
Question 6: How much is a 1987 Grand Am worth?
The value of a 1987 Grand Am can vary depending on its condition, mileage, and location. According to NADA Guides, the average value of a 1987 Grand Am in good condition is around $3,000.
Overall, the 1987 Pontiac Grand Am was a well-rounded and popular mid-size car that offered a comfortable and stylish ride at an affordable price. While it may not be the most technologically advanced car by today’s standards, it remains a classic choice for enthusiasts and collectors.
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For more information about the 1987 Pontiac Grand Am, please refer to the following resources:
- Hagerty: 1987 Pontiac Grand Am: The Official Car of Summer
- MotorTrend: 1987 Pontiac Grand Am Road Test Review
- Car and Driver: 1987 Pontiac Grand Am LE Road Test Review
Tips for Maintaining and Enjoying Your 1987 Pontiac Grand Am
The 1987 Pontiac Grand Am is a classic mid-size car that offers a comfortable and stylish ride. With proper care and maintenance, you can keep your Grand Am running smoothly for many years to come. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your Grand Am:
Tip 1: Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your Grand Am in top condition. This includes regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. By following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, you can help prevent costly repairs down the road.
Tip 2: Check Fluid Levels Regularly
Checking your Grand Am’s fluid levels regularly is a simple but important way to prevent problems. Check the oil level, coolant level, and brake fluid level at least once a month. If you notice any leaks, have them repaired promptly.
Tip 3: Keep an Eye on the Battery
The battery is a critical component of your Grand Am’s electrical system. If the battery is not functioning properly, it can cause a variety of problems, including starting problems, electrical failures, and even a dead battery. Have the battery tested regularly and replaced if necessary.
Tip 4: Inspect the Tires Regularly
Your Grand Am’s tires are responsible for providing traction and stability. Inspect the tires regularly for wear and tear. Check the tread depth and look for any signs of damage, such as cuts or bulges. If you notice any problems with the tires, have them replaced immediately.
Tip 5: Drive Responsibly
The way you drive can have a big impact on the lifespan of your Grand Am. Avoid aggressive driving, such as speeding and hard braking. These habits can put unnecessary stress on the car’s components and lead to premature wear and tear.
Tip 6: Find a Good Mechanic
If you are not comfortable performing maintenance on your Grand Am yourself, it is important to find a good mechanic who can help you. Look for a mechanic who is experienced with Pontiac vehicles and who has a good reputation.
Summary
By following these tips, you can help keep your 1987 Pontiac Grand Am running smoothly and looking great for many years to come. Remember, regular maintenance and care are essential for ensuring that your Grand Am provides you with years of reliable and enjoyable driving.
Conclusion
The 1987 Pontiac Grand Am, a significant model in Pontiac’s history, left a lasting impression on the automotive landscape. Its stylish design, comfortable interior, and diverse engine options, combined with its affordable pricing and inclusion of safety features, made it a popular choice among buyers.
The Grand Am’s balanced mid-size dimensions offered practicality and maneuverability, while its impressive sales figures in its first year of production reflected its market success. The availability of a driver’s side airbag further demonstrated Pontiac’s commitment to passenger safety and innovation.
Today, the 1987 Pontiac Grand Am remains a cherished classic for enthusiasts and collectors. Its unique combination of style, comfort, and affordability continues to resonate with those who appreciate the golden era of American mid-size cars.