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This 1977 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ was One of The Best 1970s Personal Luxury Coupes

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  • čas přidán 22. 03. 2021
  • The personal luxury coupe segment exploded in the 1970s, and Pontiac was early to the mix - John Deloriean was running Pontiac by the late 60s, and wanted to get in early on the personal luxury craze - he probably couldn't have predicted just how big the segment would become, and the Grand Prix was one of the main attractions.
    The Third generation came out in 1973, and sold extremely well - by 1977, more than 288000 Grand Prix Coupes were delivered to anxious customers, leading to all kinds of issues with supply - particularly of optional accessories and engines.
    Full review and test drive by Bill of Curious Cars on a 50K mile 1977 Pontiac Grand Pix SJ in original trim. Vehicle provided by private collector and is not for sale at this time.

Komentáře • 1,1K

  • @MarkBarrey
    @MarkBarrey Před 3 lety +162

    It just hit me , I admire the people who keep these fine examples around and in such great shape.Thank you thank you.

    • @andrefecteau
      @andrefecteau Před 3 lety +6

      if you ever want one of these come to Florida....the old geezers have them and never go anywhere.

    • @WhittyPics
      @WhittyPics Před 3 lety +5

      If I had the money I would have a garage full of these old Pontiacs. Absolutely a beautiful car inside and out. Pontiac nailed the dash in these cars

    • @titusrome2863
      @titusrome2863 Před 2 lety +1

      You too will be old someday. Try to be a little respectful.

    • @2414kels
      @2414kels Před 2 lety

      @@andrefecteau True me and brothers got the old schools in good condition in Florida or Arizona.

  • @dozerm.4108
    @dozerm.4108 Před 3 lety +62

    owned one of these as a classic 15 years ago. When a Grand Prix was a Grand Prix.

    • @PontiacFan68
      @PontiacFan68 Před 3 lety +3

      Yup than the 90s and early 2000s. Gm had it coming for them.

    • @antoniojmonetti
      @antoniojmonetti Před 3 lety +6

      @@PontiacFan68
      They’re all disposable Luminas in the 90’s and early 2000’s. Not that I have anything wrong with them. But kind of different and sad compared to the past.

    • @PontiacFan68
      @PontiacFan68 Před 3 lety +3

      @@antoniojmonetti well at least they had some good cars. In the 90s era.

    • @maraslilpogchamp9856
      @maraslilpogchamp9856 Před 3 lety +3

      GXP 😎 the last of the brand

    • @int53185
      @int53185 Před 3 lety

      @@maraslilpogchamp9856 Love my 2008 GXP. The car deserves a place alongside this '77.

  • @victordohleman953
    @victordohleman953 Před 3 lety +73

    My dad had a Silver and Grey two-tone, red pinstripes, T-Tops, Tru Spokes, and Crushed velvet interior, and 455 big block. My Mom, Dad, and brother all wore matching denim Gene jackets, flare pants with rhinestones. I was 11, my brother was 7, and Mom and dad were soo young maybe early thiries. We were in style!

    • @mrb43605
      @mrb43605 Před 3 lety +5

      I had one identical but silver and black! Beautiful car...

    • @jamesbass9797
      @jamesbass9797 Před 3 lety +5

      @@mrb43605 -- Had a friend that had one like yours as well. 455 biggie an all. And how many girls did I introduce to the back seat of that baby ... lol

    • @opera93
      @opera93 Před 3 lety +1

      Thanks, same here somewhat: though We ordered the **1977 TransAm HURST *Hatches (always seeped) TRANSAM, LOADED ( Velour, tilt/ air/ auto/ 6.6 RPOL78@180HP , that torquey but** low Horsepower) / Ziebart ( not really help with seeping tops/ body rollover), and our Kids small,.. Best driver we ever had, though easy to upgrade :with TransAm Parts by the thousands....easy to make 400 Engine run much better & open up, but way to low HP as standard, though gas Scare was real !,

    • @dmac19050
      @dmac19050 Před 3 lety +3

      Growing up we had one also.... orange with the orange mags and white interior. Very cool car. Family traded for a 82 or 83 Regal that was a total pos.

    • @truckerkevthepaidtourist
      @truckerkevthepaidtourist Před 3 lety +2

      @@dmac19050 yeah Dad traded one for a beautiful Oldsmobile Cutlass supreme 4 door unfortunately find out it was a v6 with the old Buick 231 in it they stuck that motor and almost everything.

  • @billace90
    @billace90 Před 3 lety +57

    A very nice Pontiac.
    Back in the day, the “beautiful people” crowd arrived in them to the Disco’s to dance the night away....

    • @efandmk3382
      @efandmk3382 Před 3 lety +2

      You could go to the disco to dance the night away in a Vega.

    • @michaelweizer7794
      @michaelweizer7794 Před 3 lety +2

      Billace .....and the interior had some space to both smoke and store some weed too!!.

    • @watershed44
      @watershed44 Před 2 lety +1

      @Billace
      Agreed, the hip crowd that weren't teenaged would drive these things. I'd say the target audience was probably early-late 30 y/o crowd .

    • @robk9685
      @robk9685 Před 2 lety +1

      Should've seen us being dropped off at the roller skating rink in a brand new '79 Seville in 8th grade. We were the sh*t!

  • @steves4639
    @steves4639 Před 3 lety +158

    the best dashboard of the 70's...Pontiacs always had the best dash's

    • @clintdavis9511
      @clintdavis9511 Před 3 lety +3

      The orange dash lights on 84 and up TAs was awesome at the time. My 82 had green like every other car and the first time I saw the orange dash lights I was blown away to the point I took my instrument cluster apart to make it orange!

    • @paulparoma
      @paulparoma Před 3 lety +1

      What is "dash's"?

    • @e.f.clarke2041
      @e.f.clarke2041 Před 3 lety +2

      John Davis of Motorweek would approve.

    • @truckerkevthepaidtourist
      @truckerkevthepaidtourist Před 3 lety +3

      @@paulparoma it's plural for all the dashboards Pontiac had numerous cars numerous models

    • @truckerkevthepaidtourist
      @truckerkevthepaidtourist Před 3 lety +4

      Buick was pretty close with their cockpit style circa 1971 through 1974

  • @joelholston5668
    @joelholston5668 Před 3 lety +25

    Sold a few of these and the customers were very happy to own them , great automobiles !

  • @davidclancy5374
    @davidclancy5374 Před 3 lety +90

    I worked the line plant 8 at Pontiac Motors in 1977 seen these roll off the assembly line all colors and models We built 80 cars a hour worked a ton of Saturdays to meet the demand that year. They were the best of the best in style was a timeless design very classy

    • @rudolphguarnacci197
      @rudolphguarnacci197 Před 3 lety +8

      Cool history.

    • @clintdavis9511
      @clintdavis9511 Před 3 lety +5

      Yep. 78s were completely different.

    • @rudolphguarnacci197
      @rudolphguarnacci197 Před 3 lety +13

      @@clintdavis9511 I was shocked when I saw how small they made the '78s.

    • @davidclancy5374
      @davidclancy5374 Před 3 lety +8

      @@clintdavis9511 I remember during changeover when the 78's came out went down in style size Did not care for them

    • @chronos4573
      @chronos4573 Před 3 lety +11

      And we thank you for your service.

  • @Doobie1975
    @Doobie1975 Před 3 lety +64

    Eagles, Bee Gees, Steve Miller Band, Foreigner, Donna Summer were ruling the airwaves that year, I really liked the GM personal luxury cars built from 1973 to 1977 and seeing these cars takes me back to a more simpler, more carefree.

  • @jamesgreg5542
    @jamesgreg5542 Před 3 lety +42

    How many times have you heard the words: "Those were the days!"?? I remember a friend who had a '73 Grand Am in gold and his brother had a triple black one with a 455 SD. I wanted one SO bad. I finally managed to get my hands on a '73 with a 400 in brown and I LOVED that thing. i was SO proud of it but in my heart, I truly wanted a triple black one. I searched and searched literally EVERY DAY until I finally got a triple black '73 Grand Prix SJ with a 455!! I was totally in my glory!!! I had that car for years and it was black, black and more black. Always IMMACUATE. Then in '77 I bought a '77 Grand Prix SJ. INCREDIBLE! I eventually got tired of keeping the back up and when I ordered the '77, I opted for a stunning dark green with gold metalflake called "Berkshire Green". I ordered it with white interior, a white quarter vinyl top and I specified GOLD pinstripes. The dealer said the gold pinstripes were going to be a HUGE mistake but when that car came in, he couldn't compliment it enough. Fully loaded, sunroof and the whole shot. Absolutely incredible series of GM cars!! My all-time favorites!!

    • @dandearborn727
      @dandearborn727 Před 3 lety +3

      That's a great car story Jim!! You had some great examples of the model. I have a 73 GP that I loved driving, now in storage and needs a total restoration that sadly I may never get to.

    • @BuzzLOLOL
      @BuzzLOLOL Před rokem

      Now we realize 'the good old days' ended Jan. 19, 2021...

    • @wildman510
      @wildman510 Před rokem

      Would love to see where that car is now, especially with the specialized detailing

    • @BuzzLOLOL
      @BuzzLOLOL Před rokem

      Ran across my '77 GP a few years after I sold it after 5 years of ownership... mint green with white puffy 1/4 top and white interior... it was still strikingly beautiful... a lady that owned it came out and asked if I wanted to buy it... I told her I already did... special ordered it like that in late '76...

    • @coreykmvy1980
      @coreykmvy1980 Před rokem

      Do you still have an old car? Or are those days gone?

  • @I-Libertine
    @I-Libertine Před 3 lety +20

    I had a 73 400 SJ, and the interior was identical to this 77. Best cockpit driver groove ever. Ever.

  • @randolfo1265
    @randolfo1265 Před 3 lety +9

    I had an old 1969 GP in 1983. It was a cheap winter car with a 400 ci small block and it was rock steady on the highway
    This 1977 is the nicest year of that generation GP.
    Thanks for this Bill, listening to you go on about these cars from memory is pure listening pleasure. I'm a chipper Canadian whenever a new episode comes out!

    • @1972mercurycougar
      @1972mercurycougar Před 2 lety

      400 Pontiac, does not go by small block. It goes by 400 Pontiac. If it's a small block Chevy, Wich it should not be, then there was engine swapping happening. I love the 69-72 GP also!

    • @1972mercurycougar
      @1972mercurycougar Před 2 lety

      Oh Canadian Pontiac, explains the Chevrolet business.

  • @trevorsutherland5263
    @trevorsutherland5263 Před 3 lety +8

    These are the cars I rode to elementary school in. Every one you showcase brings back memories of vinyl seats burning my thighs in summer, ashtrays with actual ashes in them, Disco music, the strange feelings I got every time I watched "Wonder Woman"....the whole thing just comes flooding back.

  • @FRFRANKIE
    @FRFRANKIE Před 3 lety +12

    You show the best old cars ever in my book.
    Thank you for all that you do to show these old cars.
    Take care and stay safe.

  • @tsav6952
    @tsav6952 Před 3 lety +71

    You wonder how something like this survived. I would imagine 95% of these are gone or in junk yards. Very nice preserved car!

    • @solidbreed9767
      @solidbreed9767 Před 3 lety +5

      Why? Grand Prix were very good reliable cars

    • @86twin
      @86twin Před 3 lety +6

      Either someone in the rust belt never let it out past October, or the they lived outside the rust belt

    • @markmcdaniel8811
      @markmcdaniel8811 Před 3 lety +2

      Owned an SJ loved it 1977

    • @jmflyer55
      @jmflyer55 Před 3 lety +3

      @MexicAmeRogue. ... ??? Lol.
      Things DO wear out. And all major products especially automobiles, have an EXPECTED, and planned "useable life". Cars aren't made to last "forever". If they were, and if they did, the automobile manufacturers would go out of business!
      This proved by todays cars more than anything. Today, a car with 150,000 miles on it, can still be sold, at high dollar amounts, and driven for MANY more miles if maintained properly.
      In contrast to that, these cars of the 1970's, by the time they had much over 100,000 miles on them, we considered them about worn out. Back in 1978 or say 1980, if this car had 150,000 miles on it, no one would have bought it. Again, that mileage in those days was considered worn out. (And very often they were no good by then! and needed a motor and more)
      So, times, and cars have changed. And these older cars were never expected to last or be driven hundreds of thousands of miles. Where as today, high mileage cars today are totally different. I had one of these when it was only 2 years old, in late 79 -1980... It was a pretty decent car. Mine was all black, with a black vinyl crown roof... The thing I prob like best about it? The swivel out bucket seats were a cool option at the time... 👍👍

    • @waynejohnson1304
      @waynejohnson1304 Před 2 lety +1

      One of the main reasons there are not many of these left is because they were bought for the demolition derbies at the time.

  • @christopherkraft1327
    @christopherkraft1327 Před 3 lety +13

    My aunt had a 65 Grand Prix & then got a 76 Grand Prix that was black & silver with red velour interior & t tops. I loved that car. I hope that the birds, cats & goats behave, then there's Dalton, you have my condolences. 🥴🙄

  • @jerseyjeff88
    @jerseyjeff88 Před 3 lety +15

    My dad had this exact Car. He used to drive to the pool club on Saturdays like he was the Sh*t.

    • @solidbreed9767
      @solidbreed9767 Před 3 lety +1

      Who cares....

    • @jerseyjeff88
      @jerseyjeff88 Před 3 lety

      @@solidbreed9767 obviously you 😂

    • @michaelscot4816
      @michaelscot4816 Před 3 lety +2

      My dad had a '76 sj and a '77 lj with t-tops. Loved riding in them.

    • @ugaais
      @ugaais Před 3 lety

      Cool it’s good to remember those we cared about in moments where they felt like the sh*t..

  • @egold2071
    @egold2071 Před 3 lety +25

    What a lovely, chipper Tuesdee it has become! Pour an extra tumbler or two of Whiskey; We've got a new 40+ minute bit by Bill to savor this evening. 🥃🥃🥃

    • @burningblue1254
      @burningblue1254 Před 3 lety +2

      This is the best entertainment ! Should be on Netflix!

  • @outdoorsluvr
    @outdoorsluvr Před 3 lety +34

    This series of the Grand Prix is still my favorite car of all time. Hands down.

    • @MarinCipollina
      @MarinCipollina Před rokem

      Pontiac outdid themselves with the final year for this body Grand Prix. It was an instant classic and still looks good today.

  • @1955gaylord
    @1955gaylord Před 3 lety +17

    I sold tons of these , never a hard sell , they rode like a caddy .

  • @anthonygriffin9275
    @anthonygriffin9275 Před 3 lety +39

    The most attractive Grand Prix ever

  • @andrewhazenberg3398
    @andrewhazenberg3398 Před rokem +3

    Bill is the best car reviewer ever ! 👍😊

  • @TheCamry2011
    @TheCamry2011 Před 3 lety +19

    one of my al time favorite cars especially with the bucket seats

  • @michaelhatcher5264
    @michaelhatcher5264 Před 3 lety +16

    That's the last full size. In 1978 it was a small shoe box. Billy the peanut 🚜 farmer. This dude's history is on point.

    • @curtcollett2893
      @curtcollett2893 Před 3 lety

      Although my favorite years were 65 & 76, the shoe boxes still were a nice ride until they went front wheel drive.

  • @RyanBallew303
    @RyanBallew303 Před 3 lety +11

    Always loved these when I was a kid. Always loved the Grand Ams of this era as well.

  • @oldpirate7434
    @oldpirate7434 Před 3 lety +14

    I had one in 1978, what ride it was!

  • @RyanGallager
    @RyanGallager Před 3 lety +13

    Love love LOVE the malaise era cars you make videos on. You always seem to get your hands on some really pristine examples from an underappreciated era and I am very happy to have stumbled upon your channel.

  • @OUTPOST-31
    @OUTPOST-31 Před 3 lety +1

    Shortly after high school in 86 I bought a very well kept silver 77 with 400/4 bbl and red cloth interior for $1200! A beautiful car that really grew on me and great memories. Thanks for taking me back to better times!

  • @PontiacFan68
    @PontiacFan68 Před 3 lety +19

    Back when America was still making cars.

  • @biscuit8641
    @biscuit8641 Před 3 lety +7

    My Mom had a 76 Cutlass Supreme with that style roof, I learned to drive in it. Great car

  • @Sedan57Chevy
    @Sedan57Chevy Před 3 lety +5

    Here I am, falling in love with yet another car you're sharing with us, and then you hit me with the news that you've got a Mark III in the pipeline...you really do find the best cars, Bill! Can't wait to see it.

  • @charger19691
    @charger19691 Před 3 lety +1

    1977 was one of the best years for movies, Star Wars and Smokey and the Bandit, but it was also the year that would, as far as I’m concerned, knock the earth off its axis. On August 16, 1977, Elvis Presley passed away at his home in Memphis Tennessee.
    Thank you for reviewing this beautiful Grand Prix. They are classy cars and I will always have a fondness for them.

  • @carscloseup
    @carscloseup Před 3 lety +71

    Despite all the flack GM gets, they generally made the best looking and engineered cars! Period!

    • @rudolphguarnacci197
      @rudolphguarnacci197 Před 3 lety +8

      I agree. People don't realize how solid a GM product could be.

    • @efandmk3382
      @efandmk3382 Před 3 lety +6

      In fairness, GM did, and still does, put out some great product. It also puts out some crap. I never buy any car in the introductory year. I wait until some consumer reviews are in. Everybody puts out a lemon now and then. Even Japanese automakers. Remember that GM built the Chevrolet Celebrity. A car that would NOT die. They also built the Chevrolet Vega. A car that had to be on life support constantly.

    • @carscloseup
      @carscloseup Před 3 lety +2

      ​@@efandmk3382 The X-cars was also considered a crappy car, but I have had a bunch of them, it was a very nice driving car, although some of GMs good engineering has failed here, it was quite solid, but prone to rust, like most cars from that era.

    • @waltbullet1287
      @waltbullet1287 Před 3 lety +1

      Why can't I sell my 72 j 400 did a new suspension no rust outs

    • @carscloseup
      @carscloseup Před 3 lety +2

      @@waltbullet1287 Maybe the price and the condition of the car doesn’t match??

  • @aarongranda7825
    @aarongranda7825 Před 3 lety +3

    I lived through all this car history but it's good to hear bill review it.

  • @rbielarski
    @rbielarski Před 3 lety +7

    Love this car Bill! Thanks for sharing with us as well as your superior knowledge of these classic gems. I actually had a 77 Red/Claret Matador Barcelona Coupe back in the early 80's as well as a 77 Monte Carlo. Could not get enough of the personal luxury cars. Wish they would make a come-back. Take care!

  • @charleskiel2299
    @charleskiel2299 Před 3 lety +15

    I love how many ash trays there were back then.. Even in back so the kids could light up

    • @robmastro8620
      @robmastro8620 Před 3 lety +6

      Yeah, and people werent so neurotic about someone having a cigarette. Im a former smoker.

    • @manuelstapp3359
      @manuelstapp3359 Před 3 lety

      That's funny thanks

    • @watershed44
      @watershed44 Před 2 lety

      @@robmastro8620 Bill sounds like a former smoker. LOL he has that raspy voice smokers always have..

  • @s.m.whiteII
    @s.m.whiteII Před 3 lety +13

    First new car I remember my parents buying...I was in the 4th grade, and they bought one with the puny 301 v8🙄 Thanks for the memories Bill!!!!!

    • @paulparoma
      @paulparoma Před 3 lety +1

      The 301 was on the puny side, no question, but it was smooth and quiet. A friend of mine had one like that. It was nice to ride in.

    • @johnsheetz6639
      @johnsheetz6639 Před 3 lety +1

      Soo slow but suprisingly good fuel economy

    • @paulparoma
      @paulparoma Před 3 lety +1

      @@johnsheetz6639 Keep in mind 55 was the national speed limit at the time, so it wasn't horribly slow. Fuel economy was indeed decent.

    • @johnsheetz6639
      @johnsheetz6639 Před 3 lety

      @@paulparoma i should have said slow acceleration, mine would still get over 100 mph eventually and it was 25 years old by then and the ac still blew cold after sitting for years outside

    • @paulparoma
      @paulparoma Před 3 lety +1

      @@johnsheetz6639 Yes, it was a little slow on acceleration, as were all cars with those engines. Mine had a 350. I got it used in 1983, and it turned out to be a piece of junk. Eventually, the motor just seized on start-up. But it looked nice.

  • @chrisexperience7
    @chrisexperience7 Před 3 lety +13

    I was really waiting to see a body when Bill popped the trunk opened. 🤣

    • @rudolphguarnacci197
      @rudolphguarnacci197 Před 3 lety +2

      Or several...

    • @randolfo1265
      @randolfo1265 Před 3 lety +1

      Yeah, but the A body he mentioned early on. Jumping out like she's waiting inside the cake!

  • @stephendibari5010
    @stephendibari5010 Před 3 lety +14

    “Anyway lets just get into it”. Amazing condition... My dad had a 1977 Buick Regal, 2 door coupe. Gold exterior with beige leather interior and light brown Landau vinyl roof. I was 13 and loved that car.... used to wash it at least once a week

    • @TheHomeExpert5
      @TheHomeExpert5 Před 3 lety +2

      My dad had the same car except his was a 1975. That was pretty nice car.

  • @nebtwin
    @nebtwin Před 2 lety +1

    My mom drove one right off the showroom floor in April of 77. White, red interior, Rally II wheels, electric windows. Beautiful car!

  • @EricWallwin
    @EricWallwin Před rokem +1

    I was 13 in 1977... I remember dreaming of having one of these when I turned 16.. what I got instead was Grandmas 1971 Chevy Impala 2 dr coupe with fender skirts in the rear... Thanks Bill enjoyed the show..

  • @matrox
    @matrox Před 3 lety +5

    The 69 and 70 SJ models with 4 speed manual transmissions are the ones to strive for. Those cars were just in your face Bad Ass.

  • @DavidHall-ge6nn
    @DavidHall-ge6nn Před 3 lety +3

    Best episode ever! You have really upped your game, man. Love all the photo inserts and the Ashtar Space Command put it over the top. We had a '67 GP 400 4bbl back in the day. 375HP & went like a scalded cat. The whole family would grow misty eyed decades later whenever it was mentioned. Thanks for the stellar trip down Memory Lane!

  • @mikekuty2061
    @mikekuty2061 Před 3 lety +1

    Bill, you are a national treasure. You have the same taste in cars as i do. Muscle cars and rice burners I'm not impressed but give me a 19 foot two door 70s luxo boat anyday. To have a car like this is a dream and a goal. As a guy in his 40s these are what I grew up on and rode in.

  • @sunbeam8866
    @sunbeam8866 Před 3 lety +1

    An older female family friend had one of these - a white '77 SJ, with the alloy wheels. From the outside, I considered it a '70s Batmobile. However, I loved the red bucket-seat interior, with traces of real wood on the doors and center console, and the power of that big 400. I know she loved that power and she enjoyed using it!

  • @randykoetzner7483
    @randykoetzner7483 Před 3 lety +8

    My favorite Grand Prix movie cameo is Carrie Fisher's with her bazooka and flame thrower in the Blues Brothers!

  • @rolanddutton4723
    @rolanddutton4723 Před 3 lety +3

    I'm watching this in England right now. Sitting in my flat and eating chips. Cheerio!

    • @dougn2350
      @dougn2350 Před 3 lety

      Did you see many American cars like this in England?

    • @charlesbridgford254
      @charlesbridgford254 Před 3 lety

      @@dougn2350 pff. Not with that gas milage. Not that we didn't drool over them. You would have had to import them or find an importer. And, the steering wheel is on the wrong side......

    • @rolanddutton4723
      @rolanddutton4723 Před 3 lety

      @@dougn2350 not many, but there are a few enthisiasts who run them. A neighbour had a Pontiac 455 (can't remember the model) as a 2nd car.
      In truth, most US classics are too big for English roads and our fuel is much more expensive. They make a lot more sense driving long distance in the US :)

  • @ButchNackley
    @ButchNackley Před 2 lety +1

    My first car was a 1973 Grand Prix SJ 455. Got it in 1979. I had 13 3rd gen GP's. Loved them.

  • @skeetersaurus6249
    @skeetersaurus6249 Před 3 lety +1

    I had a good friend in high school that, in the summer of 1977 (during the summer break), his grandmother bought him a NEW 1977 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ...loaded! Had the 400 Pontiac engine, bucket seats, electric windows, AM-FM, and (what I now think was some oddball factory option, T-TOPS!)...he was good to her, did whatever she asked, and in return she wanted him to 'get to school and work' with a dependable car! Now, that he was 'Kid Rock' before Kid Rock was only around 6 years old when this happened is irrelevant...and Kevin's Grand Prix DEFINITELY smelled like 'mother nature' all the time...but at 6'2", slim, blonde hair and blue eyes...he ALWAYS had beautiful girls as 'ride-along companions'...I'd rode with him many times back then, and remember how smooth that car rode...like a dream! My old 1973 Trans Am could outrun him...but something about that 'pimp daddy' thing just took on a life of its own...and worked well for him! Kevin, wherever you are...I still remember all the parties back then!

  • @lastwhtknight3002
    @lastwhtknight3002 Před 3 lety +6

    Thumbs up if u agree Bill is THE best thing on youtube.

  • @dominikjarych6065
    @dominikjarych6065 Před 3 lety +10

    Can't wait to see it. Once again you made my evening. Take care man!

  • @blairwilliamson5554
    @blairwilliamson5554 Před 3 lety +2

    I had a 72 Gran Prix. Loved it. At the same time my dad had a 72 Riviera and my brother had a new 72 Monte Carlo.

    • @marcodarko6941
      @marcodarko6941 Před 3 lety +1

      Those 72 Riviera's with that boat tail back end were the best. All of the lines, the back glass and a front end like a hammerhead shark. One of my all time favorite cars all the way up to the early 90's model.

  • @davidfusco6600
    @davidfusco6600 Před 3 lety +1

    My buddy had a ‘75 GP. He bought it used in 1076. It was bilious green with a white vinyl roof, and a white interior, the 400 engine, and all the power options. What a beautiful car! With its comfortable seats, and HVAC system that was beyond compare, we were all jealous! Ah those 70s memories!

  • @wmalden
    @wmalden Před 3 lety +6

    I don’t think I’ve ever seen a Grand Prix of this vintage with the cornering lamps option. Rare!!

    • @jayray8097
      @jayray8097 Před 3 lety +1

      I went to high school with a friend who had a 77 sj Grand Prix it was 2 tone blue with t tops and cornering lamps too

    • @aljohnson7153
      @aljohnson7153 Před 3 lety

      If I am correct, the cornering lamps were standard on the LJ models in 1977.

    • @jamesgreg5542
      @jamesgreg5542 Před 3 lety +1

      My '73 and '77 SJ's both had em but I ordered em that way. Don't remember if they were standard issue or special order.

    • @williamflack5767
      @williamflack5767 Před 3 lety

      Corning lamps were standard, if you ordered the Lamp group. I had them on my 76. They were nice if you were on a dark road. Turning , it really lite were you turning. Great car. Pontiac made the most beautiful car's of all times.

  • @recl971
    @recl971 Před 3 lety +15

    Break out the George Jones 8 track Bill
    You are the best

  • @ronmccullock1407
    @ronmccullock1407 Před 3 lety +2

    Welcome back Bill! What a beautiful car, and a superb review by yourself!

  • @TheHomeExpert5
    @TheHomeExpert5 Před 3 lety +2

    Bill, thank you very much for putting the magazine advertisements from the Pontiacs throughout the years, I especially like the one on the firebird from 1973, that was really awesome of you to do, you are getting much much better at your craft.

  • @LynxStarAuto
    @LynxStarAuto Před 3 lety +7

    Anyone remember the Can Am? Last official muscle car. A rare shining star during The Malaise Era.

  • @nathanlewis5682
    @nathanlewis5682 Před 3 lety +11

    Homer Simpson opening a can of Billy Beer: "Ah, Billy Beer. We voted for the wrong Carter."

    • @watershed44
      @watershed44 Před 2 lety

      @Nathan Lewis
      I actually had a collector can of this beer when I was a kid! LOL

  • @beezlbubba
    @beezlbubba Před 3 lety +1

    JESUS! You really know your history! I love cars, but your knowledge takes it to a whole other level! Great stuff! I love learning something today that I didn't know yesterday. 👍

  • @TurboMan942
    @TurboMan942 Před 3 lety +2

    Bill is the best in the biz. Little bit of history, in depth car knowledge, humor, disdain for stupidity and wild animals..Great vids

  • @pdennis93
    @pdennis93 Před 3 lety +15

    Jake Blues' ex fiance had a 77 Grand Prix in the Blues Brothers.

    • @scottlevine7646
      @scottlevine7646 Před 3 lety +2

      That was Carrie Fisher. I think it was a 76 (no separation between the headlights).

    • @pdennis93
      @pdennis93 Před 3 lety +1

      @@vincentcardenas776 yeah that's what I meant. I'll go edit it.

    • @Doobie1975
      @Doobie1975 Před 3 lety +1

      @@scottlevine7646 It was a 1977 Grand PRix

    • @j.w.4514
      @j.w.4514 Před 3 lety

      she looked so hot in the blues brothers!

    • @michaelwegner7680
      @michaelwegner7680 Před 3 lety

      With a hole in the nose cone! (and a rocket launcher inside) =)

  • @paulkeating9950
    @paulkeating9950 Před 3 lety +15

    This was a long ass video. I never thought it would end and I loved every single second of this video. You did an outstanding job as always capturing the vehicle and the world at the time of production and marketing. Great job!

  • @thebrownthomascrown917
    @thebrownthomascrown917 Před 3 lety +2

    The first new car my parents bought right off the showroom floor. Blue with white cap top....power everything with 8 track tape. Loved that thing.

  • @1972mercurycougar
    @1972mercurycougar Před 3 lety +2

    Beautiful!! My Mom had 77 301. It was nice. Aunt Judy had '76 LJ, 455V8, 4bbl. Torque for days!! 200 HP. That's it, but it felt great seat of the pants. THM400. Buckets, Console, Gauges, Sweet ride. Firethorn Red, White landau, white with red carpets, dash.

  • @Murjam100
    @Murjam100 Před 3 lety +12

    I have always been a Chevy guy, but I prefer this over the Monte of the same year. Thx for the great videos. I grew up in the 70s and these videos bring back a lot of nostalgia.

  • @donlino5900
    @donlino5900 Před 3 lety +3

    This car had the best of both worlds, when you drive one you felt like you we're in a luxury car, & when you stepped on the gas you knew you we're in a sports car, Beautiful car!

    • @MarinCipollina
      @MarinCipollina Před rokem +1

      You also knew you were in a very thirsty car every time you had to buy gasoine.

    • @donlino5900
      @donlino5900 Před rokem +1

      @@MarinCipollina- Yeah my brutha but when you buy a luxury car or a sports car, you know what you're signing up for. I got a 7trey Eldorado & the gas prices are high but I knew what it was when I brought it, plus I don't drive it on the daily.
      🤜🏾💥🤛🏾

  • @gomez5176
    @gomez5176 Před 3 lety +2

    My father owns a 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ.
    Awesome car.

  • @crushhardtack2870
    @crushhardtack2870 Před 3 lety +1

    I bought a brand new 77 Grand Prix from Bert Adams Pontiac, Joliet Illinois, in Jan 77. Probably the best car I ever owned. 301 2 bbl, got great gas mileage. I put 200,000 miles on it, and other than standard maintenance items, I replaced the water pump, alternator, and idler arm. Never used a drop of oil.

  • @fitfogey
    @fitfogey Před 3 lety +9

    You know Bill is excited about reviewing a car when he skips the weather rant.

  • @firstnamelastname6171
    @firstnamelastname6171 Před 3 lety +7

    I always liked those cars, even though I never owned one.
    You definitely can fit 3 Michigan Upper Peninsula Yoopers in the backseat just like the Canadians.

  • @scottlevine7646
    @scottlevine7646 Před 3 lety +1

    My first car (1984) was a 76 Grand Prix, white on white with red vinyl bucket seats and a factory power sunroof. I’d love to have it back!

  • @justinjoseph6966
    @justinjoseph6966 Před 2 lety +1

    My wife was born in January, 1977. That made the whole year worth it!

  • @darylroyer6019
    @darylroyer6019 Před 3 lety +4

    Love the car. FYI, although Cheryl did do Cougar commercials, the commercial for the '77 that you pictured is Farrah!

  • @nickolassarlis3337
    @nickolassarlis3337 Před 3 lety +5

    Love your channel. I'm curious. Would love to see a 77 oldsmobile cutlass salon international edition...

    • @gt-37guy6
      @gt-37guy6 Před 3 lety

      My first car was a 75 Cutlass Salon 4 door with bucket seats and console. I have not yet to this day seen another...it was a great car, and with 4 doors I was sure to have to be the one to drive everywhere.

  • @brucepaulson6279
    @brucepaulson6279 Před 3 lety +1

    I had a 76 Grand Prix SJ, silver with red quarter top red valour interior, buckets, floor shift and the best tail lights in my humble opinion 400 motor with dual exaust, turbo 400 transmission. Loved that car!

  • @topcturvee1
    @topcturvee1 Před 3 lety

    You do the most amazing car demos, Bill !!
    Thank you once again,
    You nailed it!!!!!

  • @randyrhoads8728
    @randyrhoads8728 Před 3 lety +3

    Hey bill love the vids

  • @jamesstout3430
    @jamesstout3430 Před 3 lety +3

    I LOVED these cars Bill!

    • @curiouscars9282
      @curiouscars9282  Před 3 lety +4

      Me too - I seem to be gravitating toward this era without even trying.

    • @e.f.clarke2041
      @e.f.clarke2041 Před 3 lety +1

      @@curiouscars9282 They really were something special, all the cars of the mid to late 70s. They’re some of my fav. Also, the added pictures and cut-aways are fabulous. Keep it up!

    • @non--stop
      @non--stop Před 3 lety

      @@curiouscars9282 Hi bill please who best
      Benz sl500 2006
      Or
      Bmw 3 serise convitble 2010
      and that car in video is so cool

    • @henrystowe6217
      @henrystowe6217 Před 3 lety

      @@curiouscars9282 its the malaise, Bill. Its the malaise.

    • @aaronsmith5433
      @aaronsmith5433 Před 3 lety

      Shows how far we've atrophied into upside down ßathtubistan!

  • @schnerrydog
    @schnerrydog Před 3 lety

    Love these reviews! Sorta rambling, but also very informative, and occasionally hillarious! Bill and I also seem to like a lot of the same cars. Keep up the good stuff!

  • @josephflora2552
    @josephflora2552 Před rokem +1

    I Just bought my second 1977 SJ Pontiac Grand Prix & Love it, it is pure white with red velour bucket seats center console & Hearst T-Tops, Rally Wheels "403" Pontiac engine all in show room mint condition, bought it from San Antonio TX. that's why it is so mint. now garaged in Boston. This car will never see snow or rain. the only unfortunate issue with this vehicle is I need to replace all weather stripping in which will be done over the winter months. Had the exact car 35 years ago in two tone light blue dark blue both very sharp cars. Wish I still had it I would keep them both. Will be showing this car in the early spring.

  • @landyachtfan79
    @landyachtfan79 Před 3 lety +13

    1977 would be a VERY confusing year for GM's full-size & intermediate cars, like the Grand Prix shown here, as the downsizing of the full-size cars brought them down to exactly the same size as the intermediates. The 1973-1977 General Motors Colonnade coupes were already breathtakingly beautiful to begin with, but there is just SOMETHING about a Grand Prix or Monte Carlo from this generation that does things to me that would make me violate CZcams's Community Standards/Terms of Service if I were to post them here!!!!!

    • @clintdavis9511
      @clintdavis9511 Před 3 lety

      Yep. My first car was a 77 firethorn red MC with a white Landua top and red interior. I also had a 78 MC with power sunroof several Cutlass and a beautiful 81 gold MC. Then I moved on to TAs.

  • @anthonybarnett6828
    @anthonybarnett6828 Před 3 lety +6

    The 76 was near identical and was the last year of the 455. It wasn't that fast smogged down but a great road cruiser.

    • @victordohleman953
      @victordohleman953 Před 3 lety

      76 had flush lights, looked sleeker. Tail lamps were horizonal

    • @oceanlover3530
      @oceanlover3530 Před 3 lety

      @@victordohleman953 I agree. My father had a light blue ‘76 and that’s exactly why I preferred it over the ‘77. The front end head lamps were flush and placed side by side. I thought the tail lamps were the same design though. Much nicer look! 🙂✌🏻😂

  • @derekstocker6661
    @derekstocker6661 Před 3 lety

    Another fantastic review and look around a wonderful looking car, what a fabulous shape and the slight folds in the doors stands out so much.
    Thanks for this, beautifully displayed and described!

  • @BEGGARWOOD1
    @BEGGARWOOD1 Před 3 lety +1

    I never have a clue about most American cars, but I always feel well educated by Bills lessons.

  • @keegroup
    @keegroup Před 3 lety +7

    “You’ve got nice fit and finish. You know, that’s a lie. In 1977, it really wasn’t that nice.”

    • @efandmk3382
      @efandmk3382 Před 3 lety +2

      Right. In the seventies, Detroit was cranking out crap. That's what gave foreign car manufacturers the opening to grab a huge chunk of the market.

    • @nicevmax
      @nicevmax Před 3 lety +1

      Was in my teens and twenties in the 70's, and in general fit and finish were lacking, some better some worse. This Grand Prix is a classic and beautiful car, so who cares. Love personal luxury cars from the 60's, 70's and 80's and the seventies were a high point.

  • @justinstiff5641
    @justinstiff5641 Před 3 lety +7

    Yes yes yes I need Bill's reviews like I need air. Almost suffacated. Thanks Bill I was a fish out of water. No sarcasm I swear like the goats really bother you friend. You're old skool gangster

    • @asdeaff
      @asdeaff Před 3 lety +2

      I think a nice touch of realism would be Bill discharging a 12 gauge into the trees occasionally !

  • @SD-455
    @SD-455 Před 2 lety +1

    Thanks for this one Bill, I had two 76’s and would have purchased a ‘77 but it was not to be. The ‘80 SJ we bought had that 301 4 barrel you mention and it could move the car reliably, but not quickly. I slid a ‘72 400 into it with only a couple of exhaust matching issues. Much quicker now! You mentioned not seeing this car as a star in the movies or tv but Carrie Fisher drove a red one when she was stalking the Blues Brothers. Funny to see that big honking complicated vacuum operated cruise control apparatus on the drivers fender well, but it worked with a touch of a button on that slender (by today’s standards) multipurpose directional signal lever. Keep up the great reviews, love those 60’s & 70’s Pontiacs.

  • @milwaukeewi1741
    @milwaukeewi1741 Před 3 lety

    Keep up the great work Bill! Very much appreciated.

  • @paulie-Gualtieri.
    @paulie-Gualtieri. Před 3 lety +3

    Nice car Bill wow what a stunning piece, is that rich Corinthian vinyl. Hope you are well?

  • @MrMenefrego1
    @MrMenefrego1 Před 3 lety +4

    My cousin had one of these, sadly he beat the poor thing to death. The 'SJ' was the base model, my cousin was always a cheap SOB! lol.

    • @duayneveer8229
      @duayneveer8229 Před 3 lety

      J was base model with no J badges

    • @MrMenefrego1
      @MrMenefrego1 Před 3 lety +1

      @@duayneveer8229 Not according to GM.

    • @duayneveer8229
      @duayneveer8229 Před 3 lety +1

      @@MrMenefrego1 mine had no standard options 301. Cruise only column shift

  • @mikegehre570
    @mikegehre570 Před 3 lety

    You’ve quite a large loyal following there, Bill. Your videos are too notch entertainment. I watch em all even if I’m not interested in the car you’re reviewing . So keep cranking em out

  • @jenkemjones68
    @jenkemjones68 Před 3 lety +1

    You have a great channel going here.You have an awesome gift of words and description.I just subbed btw,thanks for sharing these unique car reviews.

  • @justinstiff5641
    @justinstiff5641 Před 3 lety +6

    F*** Dalton good thing for editing I bet he cleans the pipe better than he does those windows

    • @michaelcope856
      @michaelcope856 Před 3 lety

      Real name? I only ask because I used to have a customer called Mick Stiff, in Ipswich in England.

  • @cardo1111
    @cardo1111 Před 3 lety +7

    1977 you had Meat Loaf's debut album Bat out of Hell 👍🏽

  • @kdsdar
    @kdsdar Před 3 lety

    Great video and review Bill. Finished high school in 1977 and lusted after these GP’s and especially the Cutlass back in the day.

  • @e.f.clarke2041
    @e.f.clarke2041 Před 3 lety

    I know a lot of Grand Pricks, but this is by far my favorite. 😉 Another fabulous one Bill! A real real treat.

  • @alanmaier
    @alanmaier Před 3 lety +4

    In my opinion, the GM mid-size personal luxury cars were far superior to what Ford had to offer in terms of ride and handling, and definitely a cut above the Mopar offerings in terms of build quality. Beautiful smooth ride, very quiet and decent handling for what they were. My father had a Monte Carlo from that era - such a nice car. To have a Pontiac engine in a Pontiac is a plus in terms of collectability - just as an Olds Rocket V8 in a Cutlass or Buick V8 in a Buick... we try to forget the odd-firing Buick V6 of the era (egads).

  • @klasseact6663
    @klasseact6663 Před 3 lety +7

    Bill, your NEVER rambling....your educating❗❗

    • @Wolferal
      @Wolferal Před 3 lety

      *you're

    • @klasseact6663
      @klasseact6663 Před 3 lety

      @@Wolferal 🚔

    • @Wolferal
      @Wolferal Před 3 lety

      @@klasseact6663 - What was that an image of? It doesn't show up.

    • @klasseact6663
      @klasseact6663 Před 3 lety

      @@Wolferal police car (grammar police😉)

    • @Wolferal
      @Wolferal Před 3 lety

      @@klasseact6663 Ah! Yeah, sorry.

  • @wp-aiseo
    @wp-aiseo Před 3 lety

    Very enjoyable journey back in time to one of my favorite cars - THANK YOU!

  • @toddgiambruno
    @toddgiambruno Před 3 lety

    Beautiful Grand Prix Bill!! Thank you so much as always. I'm 51 and this brings back fond memories of when you could order a car with so many color combinations and interior options. I've seen this car with t tops and was wondering if the Pontiac offered the drivers swivel seat as other GMs did. When I think of 1977 I think of the afternoon I heard on the radio in a shoe store that Elvis passed. My Dad went white. I remember one of only two times I saw him cry. He listened to records that night and cried and Mom held him. Thank you again Bill; I really appreciate your work and passion.