Original 400: 1970 Pontiac Grand Prix
The demise of Pontiac has motivated a loyal band of enthusiasts to strive to preserve its iconic models for future generations to appreciate. This 1970 Grand Prix could be a prime candidate for that approach because its condition is impressive for its age. The numbers-matching drivetrain adds to the appeal of a classic that is a turnkey proposition for its new owner. The seller has listed the Pontiac here on eBay in Dayton, Ohio. Bidding sits below the reserve at $18,500, although there is time for that situation to change.
Pontiac introduced its Third Generation Grand Prix for the 1969 model year, and following creative thinking by John DeLorean, its development time was under eighteen months in an era when three years was considered the norm. The Grand Prix underwent evolutionary styling changes for 1970, with the new grille the most obvious difference between it and its predecessor. The first owner ordered this Grand Prix in Sierra Yellow with a contrasting Cordova vinyl top and Rally II wheels. The impact is dramatic, ensuring that this gem will turn heads wherever it goes. The seller doesn’t mention any previous repairs or restoration, suggesting that this Pontiac might be a genuine survivor. Its condition is impressive if that is true, because the paint and panels look excellent. The vinyl shows no evidence of deterioration, and there is no apparent rust that could spoil the new owner’s day. The trim is as spotless as the paint, and the Soft-Ray tinted glass is excellent.
Purists will welcome the news that this Pontiac is numbers-matching. For their money, the winning bidder receives a 400ci V8, a three-speed Turbo Hydramatic transmission, and power assistance for the steering and brakes. Emission regulations and lower compression ratios wouldn’t impact General Motors engines until 1971, leading many enthusiasts to believe that motors from this model year were the last of the genuinely muscular V8s. This motor produces 350hp and 445 ft/lbs of torque, which is significantly better than the 300hp and 400 ft/lbs delivered by the same motor the following year. With a curb weight of 3,970 lbs, this Grand Prix is a touch on the heavy side. However, its ability to cover the ¼-mile in 15 seconds on the way to 140mph proves that the Grand Prix perfectly combined looks, luxury, and performance. The seller indicates that this Pontiac is in excellent mechanical health, running and driving perfectly. They float the idea of flying in and driving home, which sounds pretty attractive.
This Grand Prix’s equipment levels may seem modest by modern standards, but with air conditioning, power windows, and an AM radio, it would have stacked up well against the opposition in 1970. I believe that the factory radio may have made way for a modern stereo, but I can’t spot any other additions. The interior presentation is as impressive as the exterior, with no evidence of wear or distress on the Gold cloth and vinyl surfaces. The dash and pad are crack-free, the carpet is clean, and there is no damaged plastic. That cross-country journey would be extremely pleasant aboard this Pontiac, and you can be sure you would receive plenty of positive comments whenever you stopped to stretch your legs.
Locating a classic where you can fly in and drive it home isn’t unusual. That approach allows the buyer to develop a relationship with their new purchase as the miles roll under its tires. That is the opportunity awaiting the winning bidder on this 1970 Pontiac Grand Prix. Regardless of the journey’s length, it should be immensely enjoyable. If you have longed for such an experience, joining the bidding party might be the ideal way to transform that dream into a reality.
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Comments
I love the ’70s GM color combination of Bamboo over Metallic Gold interior. Very sharp! Would love to own this.
A genuine classic. Thank you, John Z.
Yep, can’t see anything wrong here. Possibly an IPI would bear that out. Congrats to the new owner!
I had a ’72 in bronze. Wish I had it back. If I had the money for it this one I would drive home likely in half an hour, across town not cross country.
Beautiful and the 4Barrel really made a difference on these 400s bigtime.
3.23 gear to wind up to the big top speed. 🏁
One of my favorite vehicles of all time. I prefer a 1969 over a 1970 but beggars can’t be choosers!
I was in high school and had two friends that had these. Both were the gold color and both ended up wrecked.
I agree with all of the comments above. My friend’s father had a 69, just as my friend got his drivers license.. Incredible car.
Clean!
It needs that soaped across the front windshield as it sits unloved on the corner used car lot during the “energy crisis”.
Owner traded it in for a Vega.
This was my very 1st car in 1985. I bought used from my older brother. Same exterior color combo but with black interior. I had a lot of fun in that car!