1998 Pontiac Grand Prix SE review from North America
"Good overall, do not get excited about all available options, get the 3.8 engine"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
-Headlights moisture, replaced both shortly after purchase, 66K, by dealer goodwill, after warranty expired.
- Windshield washer reservoir leaking, replaced shortly after purchase, 66K, by dealer goodwill, after warranty expired
- Fan motor dying, working only on 4th and 5th speed, replaced 10K after purchase. Noisy anyway.
- Windows switch gone, replaced 15K after purchase.
- Brakes replacement (rotors and pads) every ~35K
- Back struts replaced at 135K.
- Alignment required ~40K, lots of potholes in Toronto.
- Air conditioner drain plugged, condensate filling passenger side.
- Seats can be more supportive for spirited driving. Cheap back seat, locking mechanism broken.
- Gas mileage not one of the car strength. Overall city consumption ~15l/100Km, highway “obeying” speed limit ~10.5 l/Km.
General comments?
- Amazing style and personality. Too bad that GM’s product guru Bob Lutz decided to kill one of the best design in company’s lineup (maybe he should consider retiring).
- Great handling. With better tires (I switched to all season Goodyear Assurance Triple Tred) sensibly improvement.
- Good overall performance. Ample torque at low RPM. Put the pedal to the metal and it goes. Compete with higher priced Japanese or European cars.
- Consider the smooth and powerful 3.8 engine for the best performance.
- Decent headroom and legroom good for long trips (sitting 4).
- GM shall add outside air intake.
- Except minor annoyances, some squeaks and rattles, good value for the money.
Recommended reviews
| Not worth the price |
|
| 1998 - Grand Prix GTP 3.8 supercharged This car is hands down the best American bang for the buck! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model year | 1998 |
| Year of manufacture | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.8 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 65000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 191500 kilometres |
| Previous car | Mazda 626 |
| Date of Entry | 4th December, 2005 |