Grand Prix 2+2 - Does Rarity Make It Classic?

[Ringo64]

The Pontiac Grand Prix 2+2 was a limited edition model that was only produced for the 1986 model year. It was designed as a high-performance version of the already popular Grand Prix, with a sleek, aerodynamic body and powerful engine options.

The most notable feature of the Grand Prix 2+2 was its aerodynamic body, which was designed to reduce wind resistance and improve fuel efficiency. The car featured a unique front end with a sloping nose and hidden headlights, as well as a special rear spoiler that extended from the trunk lid.

Under the hood, the Grand Prix 2+2 was available with two engine options. The base engine was a 305 (5.0L) V8 that produced 165 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. However, buyers could also opt for the more powerful 350 (5.7L) V8 that produced 200 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a four-speed automatic transmission.

Inside, the Grand Prix 2+2 featured a luxurious interior with comfortable bucket seats, a sporty steering wheel, and a high-end sound system. It also had a number of standard features, including power windows and locks, air conditioning, and cruise control.

Despite its many strengths, the Grand Prix 2+2 was not a commercial success. Only 1,225 units were produced, and the car was discontinued after just one year. However, its rarity has made it a collector's item in recent years, with many enthusiasts seeking out these rare cars for their unique style and performance.

Overall, the Pontiac Grand Prix 2+2 is a fascinating piece of automotive history that is worth remembering. Its sleek, aerodynamic body, powerful engine options, and luxurious interior make it a standout among other mid-80s cars, and its rarity only adds to its appeal.

Do you think the Grand Prix 2+2 is a Forgotten Classic?

[31pontiac]

  Can’t speak to the classic question, but there is a little more to the story on these cars. The 1986 Grand Prix 2+2 and the Monte Carlo SS Aerocoupe were designed for Nascar. Even though they look alike, they do not share the same fastback rear window or trunk lid. I can’t verify it, but I had heard that Pontiac put a lot more wind tunnel time in on the 2+2 than Chevy did on the Aerocoupe which resulted in lower drag coefficient numbers for the 2+2.  Chevy was more interested in getting the car to market.

   Unfortunately the Grand Prix 2+2 suffers from the same build quality and questionable materials issues that many of the vehicles built in that decade had.

[Frosty]

Further, I am not aware of any 2+2 coming with a 350 engine. I think all production versions were all 305 engines. If the 350 had been installed, this car would be a whole lot more desirable in general. The limited production was intended by GM from the start to homologate the car for NASCAR use.

Rarity doesn't equate to necessarily desirable.

However, given it's association with NASCAR, it will enjoy some appreciation from the NASCAR faithful. I think the car will be appreciated for it's unique styling a lot like the aero wing cars from Mopar, just without the high cost of owning one.

Right now it is rare, but not quite reached "classic" status as yet. I suspect it will take quite some time before these car become high dollar cars, if ever.

Edited April 12, 2023 by Frosty

[TWO LANE BLACK TOP]

I too have never heard of/seen one with a 5.7/350 CID engine...

31 pontiac is correct  that the rear Aero coupe glass/trunk lid on the SS Monte Carlo is not the same...It is obviously different when the two cars are parked side by side next to each other...

I don't know about the Monte Carlo...But the Rear glass..Trunk lid...Rear interior panels and package trays...Front nose facia...ETC.. Evrything needed including the hardware was available (expensive) as a complete kit through certain Pontiac dealerships (mostly in the south east) to anyone who wanted to retrofit/upgrade to a 2+2 from a regular Grand Prix...As to whether or not if any of the kits were actually sold or not is anyone's guess...

Also 100% agree with Frosty...Rare can also mean...Unpopular which  translates to a very narrow market if you decide to sell or find nonexistent factory  replacement parts....As I personally found out a year ago When replacing the brakes on my car...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited April 12, 2023 by TWO LANE BLACK TOP

[31pontiac]

    If it had more power it probably would be more desirable now and in the future. Low production numbers have sure helped other cars skyrocket in value. There are numerous stories of Dodge Daytonas, Plymouth Superbirds, Torino Talledegas, and even our beloved  ‘69 Trans Ams as new cars going unloved and sitting in showrooms when they were new and are currently unobtainium for a lot of us. I can’t quite see that happening for the 2+2.

[TWO LANE BLACK TOP]

My dad was a mechanic at a Plymouth (Ed Owen's Chrysler Plymouth) dealership back in the late 60s early 70s...When my brother and I would go down the dealership with him on occasion on Saturday mornings..They had two Superbirds in the Showroom... one Yellow one...The other one was Petty Blue...The Yellow one was fully loaded with all the bells and whistles and had a Hemi engine with a Pistol grip 4 speed transmission...The Blue one was a stripper and  had 440 6 pack engine with a column shifted Torque Flight automatic transmission with steel wheels and dog dish hubcaps...Of course as Kids we thought they were the absolute Coolest cars we had ever seen ( remember it like it was yesterday)...They (the dealership) Could Not give them away and they sat on the lot for a very long time...Well into the 1971 model year before they were finally sold at a very deep discount...Just to get them off of the lot... They also had a New Hurst edition Chysler 300...

Edited April 13, 2023 by TWO LANE BLACK TOP

[JUSTA6]

There is one in our area here in Mich and it has the Buick Turbo V6. Far as I know from the factory.  Have pictures somewhere,can't find em. 

[Maydaze]

The Grand Prix 2+2 only came with the base 305 four barrel engine. You could not get the 305 HO like the Monte SS or a 350 as no G body from this era ever had one. Also the vehicle was purpose built for use in Nascar. Every car was the same color and fully loaded. Some had a few more options than others….power seat, body side moldings. The reason they never sold well was the sticker price of $17,800 for a slug. I bought one new in 87’ for $11,000 because Pontiac auctioned them off to dealers to simply get rid of them. I still have the paperwork to this day but I unfortunately sold it back in 98’. I’ve kept track of it and it has gone from NY to Wyoming.