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

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.

[@nebtwin]

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

[@MarkBarrey]

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

[@andrefecteau]

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

[@WhittyPics]

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]

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

[@2414kels]

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

[@Dorianday2007]

37:37 I think,... the classic electric gate is so beautiful. It fits the car!!! 😻✌

[@davidclancy5374]

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]

Cool history.

[@clintdavis9511]

Yep. 78s were completely different.

[@rudolphguarnacci197]

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

[@davidclancy5374]

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

[@chronos4573]

And we thank you for your service.

[@brucepaulson6279]

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!

[@victordohleman953]

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]

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

[@jamesbass9797]

@@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]

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]

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]

@@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.

[@1972mercurycougar]

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.

[@randolfo1265]

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]

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]

Oh Canadian Pontiac, explains the Chevrolet business.

[@EricWallwin]

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..

[@Dorianday2007]

Hi,, 1976 fuhr mein Vater einen Mustang Grande (300 HP) .... später kaufte er sich einen silbrigen Pontiac Trans AM (275 HP) Der Adler nahm er leider weg, von der Motorhaube. weil es ihm nicht gefiel 😞

[@Dorianday2007]

37:37 I think,... the classic electric gate is so beautiful. It fits the car!!! 😻✌

[@trevorsutherland5263]

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.

[@dozerm.4108]

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

[@PontiacFan68]

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

[@antoniojmonetti]

@@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]

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

[@maraslilpogchamp]

GXP 😎 the last of the brand

[@int53185]

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

[@FRFRANKIE]

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.

[@Dorianday2007]

37:37 I think,... the classic electric gate is so beautiful. It fits the car!!! 😻✌

[@jamesgreg5542]

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]

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]

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

[@wildman510]

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

[@BuzzLOLOL]

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]

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

[@joelholston5668]

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

[@Dorianday2007]

37:37 I think,... the classic electric gate is so beautiful. It fits the car!!! 😻✌

[@OUTPOST-31]

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!

[@Doobie1975]

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.

[@paulie-Gualtieri.]

Steely Dan too

[@firstnamelastname6171]

AC/DC, KISS. The 70's & 80's were the best.

[@rudolphguarnacci197]

You forgot Fleetwood Mac

[@MrMenefrego1]

@@paulie-Gualtieri. No disrespect, 'Paulie', but Steelie Dan blows!

[@michaelwhite2823]

@@paulie-Gualtieri. Covid 19. No we can't dance together. No we can't dance at all.

[@charger19691]

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.

[@steves4639]

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

[@clintdavis9511]

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]

What is "dash's"?

[@e.f.clarke2041]

John Davis of Motorweek would approve.

[@truckerkevthepaidtourist]

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

[@truckerkevthepaidtourist]

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

[@andrewhazenberg3398]

Bill is the best car reviewer ever ! 👍😊

[@billace90]

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]

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

[@michaelweizer7794]

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

[@watershed44]

@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]

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!

[@Dorianday2007]

37:37 I think,... the classic electric gate is so beautiful. It fits the car!!! 😻✌

[@I-Libertine]

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

[@jeffnorbert1871]

Mid sixties T Bird "cockpit".

[@henrystowe6217]

The 73 had a 120 mph speedometer. This unit read 100 mph

[@tsav6952]

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

[@solidbreed9767]

Why? Grand Prix were very good reliable cars

[@86twin]

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

[@markmcdaniel8811]

Owned an SJ loved it 1977

[@jmflyer55]

@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]

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

[@josephflora2552]

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.

[@Dorianday2007]

37:37 I think,... the classic electric gate is so beautiful. It fits the car!!! 😻✌

[@rbielarski]

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!

[@georgeguttknecht1344]

22 years in Florida I know exactly how you feel And you still manage to put on a great show Especially when it comes to Pontiac I have owned the Grand Prix,66,67,68,69,70,71 72 and 73 well the 73 was my father's The 66 and 67 were OK cars especially the power Glide transmission shifting out of 1st gear at 70 miles an hour , pretty cool , I got a great deal on a 72 black Blue interior bench seatIs 400 308 rear Not much off the line a good highway car She was just beautiful with that black lacquer paint All waxed up armoral all the tires interior and vinyl roof, It was really something to look at , The reflection of the hood While you were driving, Just something you don't see anymore, my favorite The 69 Grand Prix 428 police special HO This car just chewed up the competition Blew the doors off the transam, Never lost to a Chevy or a Chrysler, One car got me The "GS" Those 2 letters destroyed the competition, If you know muscle you know "GS" Keep up the good work and watch out for those dangerous animals, I have to deal with blue herons up here trying to eat my fish from the pond They stand about 5' tall and a wingspan to boot, My friend tried to Chase it away but ended it up running from it OK enjoy all

[@Dorianday2007]

37:37 I think,... the classic electric gate is so beautiful. It fits the car!!! 😻✌

[@RyanBallew303]

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

[@billc2054]

lol on the [Medialion on the Hairy Chested Disco Guy] =D I had a '76 and loved the way it drove and started up with the HEI ignition! Seeing you drive down the street and looking at the lane, reminded me that to stay perfectly in the center of my lane was to line up the hood ornament with the right side and the port side of the hood flair with the left side of the lane. A lot of great memories with that car!

[@RyanGallager]

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.

[@crushhardtack2870]

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.

[@christopherkraft1327]

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. 🥴🙄

[@sunbeam8866]

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!

[@Sedan57Chevy]

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.

[@justinjoseph6966]

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

[@TheCamry2011]

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

[@carscloseup]

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

[@rudolphguarnacci197]

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

[@efandmk3382]

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]

​@@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]

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

[@carscloseup]

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

[@DavidHall-ge6nn]

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!

[@stephendibari5010]

“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]

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

[@aarongranda7825]

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

[@paulkeating9950]

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!

[@lastwhtknight3002]

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

[@biscuit8641]

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

[@Murjam100]

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.

[@beezlbubba]

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. 👍

[@egold2071]

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]

This is the best entertainment ! Should be on Netflix!

[@ButchNackley]

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

[@s.mas.w]

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]

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]

Soo slow but suprisingly good fuel economy

[@paulparoma]

@@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]

@@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]

@@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.

[@gomez5176]

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

[@oldpirate7434]

I had one in 1978, what ride it was!

[@mikekuty2061]

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.

[@andrewcolsen]

I’m the same way too!

[@outdoorsluvr]

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

[@MarinCipollina]

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

[@TheHomeExpert5]

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.

[@michaelhatcher5264]

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]

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

[@davidfusco6600]

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!

[@jerseyjeff88]

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

[@solidbreed9767]

Who cares....

[@jerseyjeff88]

@@solidbreed9767 obviously you 😂

[@michaelscot4816]

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

[@ugaais]

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

[@TurboMan942]

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

[@dominikjarych6065]

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

[@scottsnothome5649]

Best car best review I have seen. Bill, you are the man

[@randykoetzner7483]

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

[@firstnamelastname6171]

Yep, I forgot about that!

[@garyeisenberg3791]

My best friend his mom had a black and cherry red pinstrips 1972 gp that was great car

[@michaelwegner7680]

This is a very well informed and presented vid on a car SO many people can say "I had one of those!". I was and still am a Pontiac guy with a comparable condition 1975 SJ sitting pampered in heated storage most of it's time. Very well stated on how these were not a powerhouse vehicle but they got along "OK" for the day. The dash / instrument panel of this one and mine (same color too) were exactly the same as the 1977 LeMans Sport Coupe I purchased to replace a Grand Prix back in 1982. (Firethorn Red) Thanks for a great trip down memory lane Bill!!

[@anthonygriffin9275]

The most attractive Grand Prix ever

[@jbwxyz9555]

Hahaha, eh, Bill ! For a proud Canadian/Québécois ('74 model here !) from Montreal, and my finally very true first comment on one of your incredible videos (and more than therapeutic and historical/remembrance for us generation X's from the 70's who like cars especially from those years) that either crack us up in cynical all over the place laughter, or amaze us with your knowledge, thanks for mentionning about, yes, the famous ''Bill 101'' and the French language law in 1977 Québec. Also, in 1977, to be mentionned, ''PET'' (Pierre Eliott Trudeau, Justin's father that's righ... our Prime Minister between 1968 and... 1984) made the Metric system official, all over Canada, as well that year in 1977 ! Keep up with your fantastic car videos my friend Bill, as I, for sure with any American 1960's-70's-80's as German cars especially, will listen to anytime the hour out ! (especially land yachts of course) Cheers ! (a very ''chipper Canadian-Québecois'' in Florida on the back seat, here hehehe, salut !)

[@matrox]

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.

[@SD-455]

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.

[@wmalden]

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

[@jayray8097]

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]

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

[@jamesgreg5542]

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]

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.

[@donmoore7785]

Nice looking boat! I can listen to Rod Stewart once every few years, for about 20 seconds. I got most of my fill thanks to Bill. Love the curves on the quarter panels. 1977 to a tee. As someone else pointed out, THIS is a Grand Prix. Thanks for the effort, Bill.

[@chrisexperience7]

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

[@rudolphguarnacci197]

Or several...

[@randolfo1265]

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

[@patrickflohe7427]

Those were awesome, beautiful & stylish cars. My dad bought one brand-new for my mom, but it was a loaded LJ. It was a fantastic car, with the last year of the 400 cubic inch 4bbl engine. It had the T-tops, crushed velour interior, and looked great in that white paint. I still remember the smell, when my dad brought it home....it was great! The awful smell, was from the exhaust....it was the first car with a catalytic converter that we had. My mom loved that car, and still misses it! I’d love to give that car to her!

[@landyachtfan79]

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 KZbin's Community Standards/Terms of Service if I were to post them here!!!!!

[@clintdavis9511]

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.

[@kennethhacker1341]

I remember my dad bringing this car home when I was a kid..it was black and super hot day...ohhh the memories thank you for the upload

[@recl971]

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

[@Dorianday2007]

37:37 I think,... the classic electric gate is so beautiful. It fits the car!!! 😻✌

[@blairwilliamson5554]

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]

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.

[@PontiacFan68]

Back when America was still making cars.

[@Dorianday2007]

37:37 I think,... the classic electric gate is so beautiful. It fits the car!!! 😻✌

[@somersetdc]

I love your rambling dialogue...or diatribe. Always fun and a step back to my teenage and early twenties years.

[@rolanddutton4723]

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

[@dougn2350]

Did you see many American cars like this in England?

[@charlesbridgford254]

@@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]

@@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 :)

[@dandearborn727]

This is a great video of a car that was produced when I came of age. Loved these GM personal luxury coupes of course. I once bought a 73 GP that was a thrill to own, now in storage needing a restoration. When I had money, I always searched for pristine examples of Grand Ams, Grand Prixs, Can Ams etc., but the good ones were always over priced (for the time) for the last 20 years. So now I have the old GP that I probably will never be able to afford to restore. It's good fun to watch Bill's videos and appreciate the intent of the original designers.

[@charleskiel2299]

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

[@robmastro8620]

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

[@manuelstapp3359]

That's funny thanks

[@watershed44]

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

[@Dorianday2007]

37:37 I think,... the classic electric gate is so beautiful. It fits the car!!! 😻✌

[@CarlosGuzman-bq8fr]

I had the same one. A boat of a car. My dad one in a beautiful blue. He loved that car. I remember as a kid going with my dad to the record store. My dad parked in front. Apparently another blue car parked in front. My dad go in the wrong car. Back then people didn't lock there cars. My dad found out when he tried to start the car. I bought my 1977 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ for $280 in the early 90's I needed a car. I had it a short time. Some idoit rear ended it and almost pushed in a trailer park where a pregnant lady lived. That car saved her life. It got towed and I thought it was stolen and found out later what happened. Great video. Buddy.

[@LynxStarAuto]

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

[@brycejames2127]

My 77' is black with a white landau top with the tops ! White interior! Mint original condition! I bought it in the late 80's and had it ever since. Also has swivel buckets and console shift , loaded model. Canadian car , no winters. Only 60,000 miles! Great summer cruiser . Love your videos ! 👍👍👍

[@pdennis93]

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

[@scottlevine7646]

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

[@pdennis93]

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

[@Doobie1975]

@@scottlevine7646 It was a 1977 Grand PRix

[@j.w.4514]

she looked so hot in the blues brothers!

[@michaelwegner7680]

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

[@thebrownthomascrown917]

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.

[@donlino5900]

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]

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

[@donlino5900]

@@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. 🤜🏾💥🤛🏾

[@luis00903]

My father bought a brand new '77 red/red power windows when I was 5yrs old. Was a nice car, but got hit around '87, totaled off and probably ended up in a junk yard. Sad ending, but the beautiful memories of that gleaming vehicle keep on!! Great video !!

[@firstnamelastname6171]

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.

[@c5back9]

Bill, it wasn’t one of the best, it was THE best, and this particular specimen is absolutely stunning! It being my birthday today, I’ll happily allow you to cut me a nice deal on this gem so I can love and polish it often. I had a white SJ similar to this one back in the day, but mine had the red leather interior and white top. It was a a stunning beauty too. I wish I had just put it away so I could still ride it today.

[@BeingMe23]

Happy Birthday 🎂🥳

[@c5back9]

@@BeingMe23: TY!

[@darylroyer6019]

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

[@Dorianday2007]

37:37 I think,... the classic electric gate is so beautiful. It fits the car!!! 😻✌

[@johnwsimpson3153]

This video brought back memories. I had a 76 LJ with the same color scheme as this car. Bought new and kept it 5 years, which was long for me at the time. Since it was an LJ it had transmission lever on the column and no console (what's the point of gear selector on the floor for an automatic transmission?) -- plenty of room to stretch out. The big door was great, easy to get in and out.

[@nickolassarlis3337]

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

[@gt-37guy6]

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.

[@Dorianday2007]

37:37 I think,... the classic electric gate is so beautiful. It fits the car!!! 😻✌

[@ronmccullock1407]

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

[@nathanlewis5682]

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

[@watershed44]

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

[@mikegehre570]

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

[@randyrhoads8728]

Hey bill love the vids

[@curiouscars9282]

Thanks - appreciate that.

[@CaptainRon-x7w]

Your vernacular one liners are classically hilarious 😂 !!! Keep up the great work !

[@jamesstout3430]

I LOVED these cars Bill!

[@curiouscars9282]

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

[@e.f.clarke2041]

@@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]

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

[@henrystowe6217]

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

[@aaronsmith5433]

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

[@The1mbfan]

Had a1975SJ,red leather interior,bucket seats, factory 8 track stereo, chrome wheels,dual glass pacs,registered 160mpg & I had it topped out once! Loved that car 💕

[@fitfogey]

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

[@kdsdar]

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

[@alanmaier]

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).

[@mikefordguy3364]

Great video Bill. I had a 74 SJ with the 455. Burgundy red with black buckets was a one owner with 47k miles. Got it in 79 in my junior year in high school. Loved that car.

[@justinstiff5641]

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]

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

[@rogerjones8955]

I also had a white 77 with the 400 4 barrel, I would love to have another one, I miss it! Love, Love, Love this car!!!