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1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Catalog and Classic Car Guide, Ratings and Features

Image of 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix, sourced from www.autobarnclassiccars.com , Image Link.

Performance Metrics

Performance: +55
Handling: +50
Ride Comfort: +70

Fundamental Metrics

Safety: +40
Maintenance and Upkeep: +75
Restoration Difficulty: +80

Emotional Appeal

Looks: +65
Collectability: +60
Historical Significance: +30

MMP Rating

5.9 /10
Engine Specifications
Engine Options: 301 cu in (4.9 L) Pontiac V8, 265 cu in (4.3 L) Pontiac V8, 231 cu in (3.8 L) Buick V6
Displacement Range: 231-301 cu in
Horsepower Range: 115-150 hp
Torque: 185-240 lb-ft
Compression Ratio: 8.0:1 - 8.1:1
Ignition System: Electronic ignition
Cooling System: Liquid cooled
Performance Specifications
0-60 Time: 10-12 seconds
1/4 Mile Time: 17-19 seconds
Top Speed: 105-110 mph
Transmission and Drive
Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive
Transmission Type: 3-speed automatic, 4-speed manual
Fuel and Efficiency
Fuel System Type: Carburetor
MPG: 15-20 mpg
Dimensions and Brakes
Brakes: Front disc, rear drum
Wheelbase: 108.1 inches
Weight: 3,200-3,500 lbs

Note: Specifications for classic cars are given to the best of our ability, considering the limited and variant data available.

1979 Pontiac Grand Prix: A Blend of Luxury and Muscle

The 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was not just a car; it was a statement on wheels. Born from the esteemed lineage of General Motors, this model encapsulated the transition from the muscle car era to a period that demanded more sophistication and comfort. As the automotive industry shifted gears towards luxury personal coupes, the Grand Prix stood out with its unique blend of performance and panache. A notable moment in its history was when it became a symbol of American resilience during an era marked by economic challenges and an oil crisis.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix was both bold and elegant, with a long hood and a short rear deck that gave it a classic coupe silhouette. The distinctive split grille and quad headlights were flanked by chrome accents, exuding a sense of power and grace. Inside, the cabin greeted drivers with plush seating and an array of wood or faux wood accents, reflecting the era's penchant for opulence. The quality of materials balanced durability with comfort, ensuring a premium feel.

Technologically, the Grand Prix boasted features like an optional Rally Gauge Cluster including a tachometer and engine gauges, which were quite advanced for its time. Color options ranged from understated classics to vibrant hues, with popular choices including Cameo White, Solar Gold, and Atlantis Blue. Among body styles, the two-door coupe reigned supreme, capturing hearts with its sporty yet sophisticated presence.

Historical Significance

The 1979 Grand Prix's impact on automotive design was significant as it helped redefine what American luxury meant in an automobile. It set itself apart with a combination of muscle car heritage and modern comforts that few contemporaries could match. This model's design cues would influence not only future Pontiacs but also other vehicles in the GM lineup.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Grand Prix offered various powertrain options, with the top-tier V8 engines capable of propelling it to impressive speeds for its class. While exact acceleration figures varied based on engine choice, this coupe could typically sprint from 0-60 mph in under 10 seconds—a respectable feat at the time. Handling was smooth yet responsive, absorbing road imperfections while maintaining composure on winding roads. The symphony of its engine provided an audible thrill that complemented the driving experience.

Ownership Experience

The 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix found its niche among those seeking a daily driver with flair or show car enthusiasts drawn to its distinctive style. Its reliability was commendable for the era, though some components are now considered less durable by modern standards. Maintenance is generally straightforward for those familiar with classic GM vehicles.

Fun Facts

This model year saw some Grand Prix units gracing celebrity driveways and even making appearances in films and television shows of the time. While not known for breaking speed records, it did achieve considerable sales success. Criticisms often centered around fuel efficiency—a common concern during that period.

Collector's Information

Today's collectors might find a 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix valued anywhere from $5,000 for models in fair condition to upwards of $20,000 or more for pristine examples or rare trims such as the LJ or SJ packages. Production numbers were robust for this year, but exact figures can be elusive—estimates suggest tens of thousands rolled off assembly lines. The market trend shows appreciation for well-maintained or restored units as they become rarer over time.

Conclusion

The 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix stands as a testament to an era when luxury began to merge seamlessly with performance in American coupes. Its lasting appeal is evident in its continued desirability among collectors and classic car enthusiasts alike. Whether cruising down memory lane or turning heads at car shows today, this iconic vehicle continues to capture imaginations just as it did when it first hit the streets.

1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Catalog of Parts

1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Front coil-spring insulator-BN 110 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Front coil-spring insulator-BN 110Front coil-spring insulator. Fits '41-'60 Oldsmobile and '50-'83 GM passenger models. 5-3/8 in. OD x 3-3/4 in. ID x 3/4 in. high with 13/16 in. wide bottom flange 1/4" thick, 12 flutes. Each.

1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Automatic brake pedal pad fits '78-88 GM A, Spec A, G Body-CB 101-D 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Automatic brake pedal pad fits '78-88 GM A, Spec A, G Body-CB 101-DCB 101-D replaces the automatic brake pedal pad on many 1978-1988 General Motors A, Spec A and G body models. Also fits many 1982-1991 GM J, L, N and P body models. 4-1/2" wide X 2-1/2" long. Each

1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Hood and cowl seal-CS 13-G 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Hood and cowl seal-CS 13-GHood and cowl seal. Fits '78-'88 GM A-body, A-Special (A-SPEC) and G-body 2-door hardtop coupes with rear wheel drive (RWD). Dual-durometer extrusion with flexible metal core. Easy to install; fits over pinchweld. Replaces OEM# 20255857 and 25505704. Made in the USA. Each.


1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Auxiliary T-Top Sealing Strips-ELP 5020-B 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Auxiliary T-Top Sealing Strips-ELP 5020-BAuxiliary T-Top Sealing Strips. For models with factory t-top option. 51" in length per side, adhesive tape backing. Replaces OEM #20139617. Pair

1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Molded Door Seals. 2-door coupe-LM 16-JM 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Molded Door Seals. 2-door coupe-LM 16-JMMolded Door Seals. 2-door coupe. Replaces OEM part numbers 20038032/3. Pair. R&L.

1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Lower Door Sill Seal, 78-88 GM G Body 2 Doors, Pair-LM 16-JS 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Lower Door Sill Seal, 78-88 GM G Body 2 Doors, Pair-LM 16-JSLower Door Sill Seal, 78-88 GM G Body 2 Doors, Pair. Replaces OEM # 20376226. These seals fit in between the panel and the lower part of the doors.

1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Trunk Liner.  Loose weave, jet black.  50 wide-M 30 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide-M 30Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide. Sold by the foot

1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Basic kit-RKB 1900-116 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Basic kit-RKB 1900-116Basic kit. '78-'81 Grand Prix, Monte Carlo 2-door coupe with T-top roof option. Door (LM 16-JM), T-top to body (TP 5020), T-top side panels (ELP 5020) and trunk (MW00101) seals. 7-piece set.

1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Basic kit. ’78-’80 Pontiac Grand Prix 2-door coupe-RKB 1900-122 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Basic kit. ’78-’80 Pontiac Grand Prix 2-door coupe-RKB 1900-122Basic kit. '78-'80 Pontiac Grand Prix 2-door coupe. Door (LM 16-JM), roof-rail (RR 5020-M) and trunk (MW00101) seals. 5-piece set.

1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Brake Master Cylinder Cover Seal.  Replaces OEM #5470861-RP 2-E 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Brake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861-RP 2-EBrake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861. 5" X 2-1/2". Each



1979 Pontiac Grand Prix T-Top to Body Seals.  Fits models with factory T-top option-TP 5020 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix T-Top to Body Seals. Fits models with factory T-top option-TP 5020T-Top to Body Seals. Fits models with factory T-top option. Replaces OEM #20211820/20211821. For matching T-Top Side Rail Seals, see ELP 5020. Pair

1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Rear Quarter Window Molding Clip.  Made of steel-WF 204 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Rear Quarter Window Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 204Rear Quarter Window Molding Clip. Made of steel. 3/4" x 1-3/8". Each

1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Quarter Window Reveal Molding Clip.  Made of Steel-WF 205 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Quarter Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of Steel-WF 205Quarter Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of Steel. 1-3/8" X 11/16". Each

1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Windshield Reveal Molding Clip.  Made of steel.  13/16 x 1-WF 209 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 13/16" x 1"-WF 209Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 13/16" x 1". Each

1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip.  Made of steel-WF 211 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 211Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 15/16" X 3/4". Each

1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Lower Side Window Reveal Molding Clip.  Made of nylon-WF 214 1979 Pontiac Grand Prix Lower Side Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of nylon-WF 214Lower Side Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of nylon. 1-1/4" x 3/4". Each

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For over 100 years, Metro Moulded Parts has been the pinnacle of quality in classic car restoration parts. Our commitment to precision and authenticity in every component ensures a perfect fit and an OEM-level appearance.

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  • Proudly American: Our parts are a product of American craftsmanship, made in the USA with a spirit of excellence and heritage.
  • Unrivaled Warranty: We back our products with a 30-year industry-leading warranty, a testament to our confidence in their quality.

Join us in preserving the legacy of classic cars with parts that are crafted for perfection, not just made.

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