Pontiac Grand Am (2nd generation)
The downsized grand tourer that prioritised handling over brute force.
- Power
- 87 bhp
- Top speed
- 96 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$15k
About the Pontiac Grand Am
The second-generation Pontiac Grand Am arrived in 1978 as a downsized, more efficient take on the 'European-style' American tourer. Built on the G-body platform, it was distinguished from its LeMans sibling by a unique vertical-bar nose and a driver-focused interior shared with the Grand Prix. While the 2.5-litre 'Iron Duke' inline-four was the economy-minded entry point, the model was primarily marketed for its Radial Tuned Suspension (RTS) and improved agility. Despite its sharp looks and respectable handling for the era, it struggled to find an audience against more traditional personal luxury coupes, leading to a short three-year production run.
Pontiac Grand Am specs
The Pontiac Grand Am produces 87 bhp (65 kW) and 173 Nm (128 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 96 mph (155 km/h).
| Make | Pontiac |
|---|---|
| Model | Grand Am |
| Generation | Second Generation (2nd generation) |
| Trim | 2.5 |
| Years | 1978–1980 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 10,679 built |
| Original price | About $5,500 when new |
| Engine | 2.5-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,471 cc (2.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 87 bhp (65 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 173 Nm (128 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| Top speed | 96 mph (155 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,429 kg (3,150 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 61 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 Grand Am worth?
A typical Pontiac Grand Am is estimated to be worth $4,500 – $15,000 (about £3,400 – £11,000).
Its original price when new was about $5,500.
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 Grand Am rarity in CarSpot
The Pontiac Grand Am is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 40 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 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 Grand Am fun facts
- The 2.5-litre engine, famously known as the 'Iron Duke', was designed for extreme durability and later powered the USPS Long Life Vehicle (LLV) mail trucks for decades.
- The Grand Am name was a portmanteau of two other famous Pontiacs: the luxurious 'Grand' Prix and the high-performance Trans 'Am'.
- In 1978, the Grand Am was one of the few American cars to offer a dashboard with full instrumentation, including a tachometer and clock, as standard equipment.
