The 1973 Pontiac Grand Prix Is Federally Mandated Cool

So What Changed for '73 Pontiac Grand Prix?

The A-Body Pontiac Grand Prix had 2 major changes going into its third generation which started from 1973 and lasted till 1977. All Grand Prix now have a 5-mph bumper along with a mandatory EGR valve.

The dash was redesigned as was the front fascia along with body pillars to increase safety and roll over protection. The GP now had six windows and the rear quarter windows were now fixed.

But the good news is that the 455 V8s were retained, along with its timeless styling and peerless bruiser/cruiser chops.

The new styling meant that the wheelbase was 2 inches shorter overall the last gen 116 inches by the length was now a bit bigger at 216.6 inches and the weighted now stood at 4400 pounds thanks to extensive safety related modifications.

What's The "SJ" option?

The 1973 Pontiac Grand Prix came with two engines mated to a sole Turbo Hydra-Matic. The first and stock option was a 400-cubic-inch V8 making 230 hp and 325 lb.-ft. Thanks to Rochester Quadra jet four-barrel carburetor and an 8.0:1 CR.

Ticking the optional SJ package got you a 455 cu in (7.5 L) Pontiac V8 with 250 hp/370 lb.-ft along with steel belted tires, rear sway bars, revised ignition system, Delco battery, body-colored rearview mirrors, pinstripes, rally gauges and re-styled wheel covers.

The suspension components were sourced from other GM cars like Camaro and Firebird.

The stock 1973 Pontiac Grand Prix could do 60 mph in about 8–10 seconds, with quarter mile coming up at 15 seconds or so as tested by multiple owners.

Other standing options included-

• Variable Power Steering
• 4 Wheel Disc Brakes
• HD Coilovers
• Blackwall Wheels
• HD Perimeter Frame

Same Classy Story Inside?

The interior came in various colors like White, Beige, Blue, Chamois, Burgundy and Green. Front and bucket seats along with African Mahogany trim dash.

The rear had bench seats and came with sound insulation. The all-foam seats were situated upon nylon blend carpeting and floor mounted shifter. Option includes sunroof and rally gauges.

How Much is 1973 Pontiac Grand Prix these days?

In 1972 GM sold 153,899 units and 20,749 had the SJ package. Today a '73 Pontiac Grand Prix is about $25,000 to $35,000 on average as seen on Classic.com.

Aside from the usual rusted panels, the broken fuel pump is among the most replaced components in a 1973 Pontiac Grand Prix as per an owner on Quora.