Pontiac Bonneville (9th generation)
The ninth-generation Bonneville shifted Pontiac's flagship to a modern front-wheel-drive platform with Euro-inspired handling.
- Power
- 165 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 9.5 s
- Top speed
- 115 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$9k
About the Pontiac Bonneville
The ninth-generation Pontiac Bonneville, introduced for 1987, represented a radical departure for the nameplate by moving to the front-wheel-drive H-body platform. The 1989 model featured the '3800' Series I V6, an engine renowned for its reliability and smooth power delivery via sequential port fuel injection. Marketed with the 'Pontiac We Build Excitement' slogan, it was aimed at buyers seeking a sportier alternative to the Buick LeSabre and Oldsmobile 88. While it lacked the V8 rumble of its predecessors, its MacPherson strut suspension provided a more composed and contemporary driving experience.
Pontiac Bonneville specs
The Pontiac Bonneville produces 165 bhp (123 kW) and 285 Nm (210 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 9.5 seconds and has a top speed of 115 mph (185 km/h).
| Make | Pontiac |
|---|---|
| Model | Bonneville |
| Generation | Ninth Generation (9th generation) |
| Trim | 3.8 V6 |
| Years | 1987–1991 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $15,000 when new |
| Engine | 3.8-litre V6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,791 cc (3.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 165 bhp (123 kW) at 4,800 rpm |
| Torque | 285 Nm (210 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,200 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 9.5 s |
| Top speed | 115 mph (185 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,525 kg (3,362 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 108 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Pontiac Bonneville worth?
A typical Pontiac Bonneville is estimated to be worth $2,000 – $8,500 (about £1,500 – £6,300).
Its original price when new was about $15,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Pontiac Bonneville rarity in CarSpot
The Pontiac Bonneville is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 13 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Pontiac Bonneville fun facts
- The 1989 Bonneville was among the first American cars to offer a compact disc player as a factory option.
- The 3800 V6 engine found in this generation is considered one of the most reliable engines ever produced by General Motors.
- For 1989, the Bonneville was named to Car and Driver's 10Best list, praised for its balance of performance and value.
