It is a sobering moment when you are confronted with a tidy and unmolested survivor like this 1977 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ and realize it is only a few years from celebrating its fiftieth birthday. A close examination confirms it isn’t perfect, but its overall condition guarantees it would draw admiring glances wherever it goes. This beauty isn’t all about good looks because it features some pretty desirable factory options. Its next journey could be to a new home, with the seller listing the Grand Prix here on eBay in Bradenton, Florida. They set their BIN at $34,997, so let’s take a look to see if that figure is justified.

Pontiac scored a home run with its Fourth Generation Grand Prix. Despite faltering sales in 1974 and 1975, the badge experienced strong acceptance. The 1977 model year was the last for this Generation. It was also its most successful, with 288,430 buyers taking home a new GP. The SJ was the lowest seller, although, with a tally of 53,442 vehicles, it was hardly rare. This Pontiac makes a bold visual statement in Brentwood Brown with Mohave Tan highlights and a matching Tan vinyl top. The seller states the paint is original, and while a close inspection reveals small chips and marks, the rich shine and arrow-straight panels suggest it has been treated respectfully and led a sheltered existence. This impression is heightened when we climb under the cars, with the spotless underside confirming this classic is rust-free. The vinyl is in good order, with no deterioration or signs of distress. I like how the color-coded Rally II wheels tie the exterior together, but the party piece could be the Hurst T-Top. I have been unable to determine how many SJs feature this option, but information across several specialist forums suggests the figure is extremely low.

This Pontiac demonstrates why it is crucial to undertake detective work before handing over the cash for any classic purchase. The listing describes the seats as trimmed in vinyl and leather, but the Cowl Tag confirms it is Buckskin vinyl. First impressions are positive, with no gaping holes or splits that suggest abuse. However, some minor marks prevent the upholstered surfaces and door trims from achieving perfection. The issues aren’t severe, and most buyers will consider them acceptable for a vehicle of this vintage. The console looks excellent, and there are no visible problems with the dash or pad. A modern CD player is mounted near the driver’s left knee but appears to be the only aftermarket addition. Those craving creature comforts will appreciate the air conditioning, cruise control, tilt wheel, AM/FM radio, and the factory CB.

Powering this Grand Prix is the company’s 400ci V8. It sends 180hp and 325 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission. The ’77 Grand Prix was more of a highway cruiser than a muscle car, with its ¼-mile ET of 18.4 seconds reflecting the impact of tightening emission regulations. A 400-equipped 1973 Grand Prix would have completed the same journey in 16.6 seconds, while opting for the 455-SD slashed the time to 15.1 seconds. The listing for the Grand Prix is quite wordy, and it provides no concrete information about how this classic runs or drives. That is frustrating, especially considering the seller’s price. However, the news should be positive if the engine bay presentation and lack of visible fluid leaks are accurate indications.

This 1977 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ presents beautifully, and there is no evidence that it has any pressing needs or significant flaws. It features a range of desirable options, and the T-Top could be the icing on the cake. That brings us back to the seller’s price and whether it is justified. Recent sales results suggest the figure is optimistic, but it is in line with the value for a #2 vehicle, as quoted by NADA and Hagerty. Do you think the seller will taste success, or will they need to compromise?