The brakes on these cars for some reason are a problem. I bought this car used and when me and my wife test drove it she noticed a sound from the back rear. Well, we addressed it to the dealership. They said they GM Certified the car. I was happy with that until I drove it for a day and had to return it. I realized that the GM Certification is sort of a joke. They replaced the back rotors under warranty. But still, that may be a sign of things to come. As well, the rubber trim does not stay on. Had to do some glue work.
I fell in love with the car. Outside the brake issues and a little cosmetic complaints, I find the car wonderful to drive. I like the look. Not to sporty, but you feel like your in a sports car when your in it. I like the acceleration and the handling which is most excellent. Every thing is in a good place on the dash. Easy to read. Classic Pontiac dash and orange lighting. The seating is decent and road noise is low.
I hope you have deep pockets buddy. You're in for a low speed hell ride, Pontiac style.
My 2001 Grand Am has been the best car I've ever owned. In 8 years I've spent a TOTAL of $27 on it for repairs. That includes ONE light bulb and replacing the front brake pads at 70,000 miles (a 15-minute job on my lunch break). The rear pads are STILL the originals.
This car is very peppy. I've blown the doors off V-6 Grand Prixs easily (mine is the Quad 4). It is fast, sporty, and rides very well.
I don't care for the ones built after 2002, which don't have the nice body cladding, because they look too bland for my tastes.
I'd recommend a Quad 4 Grand Am to anyone wanting a really solid, reliable used car. They are one of the best bargains on the market because car magazine writers HATED them and always trashed them. Most of the problems with these cars can often be traced to owner abuse, so take care of it and you'll have a great car for a VERY long time.