Image of 1987 Pontiac Grand Prix, sourced from www.classiccarsofsarasota.com , Image Link.

1987 Pontiac Grand Prix: A Blend of Muscle and Luxury

The 1987 Pontiac Grand Prix stands as a testament to an era when personal luxury coupes were all the rage, and performance was beginning to make a comeback. Born from the lineage of General Motors' Pontiac division, this model year marked a pivotal moment as it was one of the last rear-wheel-drive Grand Prix models before the switch to front-wheel drive. With its distinct blend of comfort and muscle-car undertones, the '87 Grand Prix carved out its own niche in automotive history.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1987 Pontiac Grand Prix boasted a sleek yet aggressive stance, with a long hood and a short rear deck that echoed classic muscle car proportions. The aerodynamic body featured clean lines that flowed from the rectangular headlamps to the wraparound taillights. Inside, occupants were greeted with plush seating and an array of convenience features that emphasized luxury over outright sportiness. The quality of materials, from soft-touch plastics to optional leather upholstery, reflected Pontiac's commitment to comfort.

Noteworthy technological features for its time included electronic fuel injection and an optional digital instrument cluster. Available color options ranged from conservative shades to bolder hues, with popular choices being Dark Garnet Red Metallic and Light Chestnut Brown Metallic. The most iconic body style was undoubtedly the two-door coupe, which offered various trim levels including the sporty Brougham and LE models.

Historical Significance

The 1987 Grand Prix didn't just represent another model year; it stood as a bridge between traditional American car design and the forthcoming era of modernization. It set itself apart with its rear-wheel-drive layout at a time when many competitors were transitioning to front-wheel drive. This choice preserved the driving dynamics cherished by enthusiasts and allowed the Grand Prix to maintain its muscle car roots.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the standard engine was a 3.8-liter V6, but performance seekers often opted for the 5.0-liter V8, which provided brisk acceleration for its time. While top speed was electronically limited, drivers could expect a 0-60 mph sprint in under 10 seconds with the V8—a respectable figure for a luxury coupe of that era. The handling was tuned more for comfort than corner carving, but it still managed bumps with poise while offering enough agility to be engaging on twisty roads.

Driving an '87 Grand Prix was about cruising in style—the burble of the V8 at idle, the smooth ride over long distances, and the sense of control behind its thin-rimmed steering wheel created an experience that combined performance with plushness.

Ownership Experience

Owners used their Grand Prix models in various ways—from daily commuting to weekend show cars or even amateur drag racing events. Maintenance and reliability were typical for GM vehicles of that period; parts were readily available, making repairs relatively straightforward for those with mechanical knowledge.

Fun Facts

The 1987 Pontiac Grand Prix held a special place in pop culture and could be spotted in various movies and TV shows of that era. While not known for breaking speed records, it did achieve recognition for its durability and build quality. Common criticisms often centered around its relatively modest fuel efficiency and the desire for more power from performance enthusiasts.

Collector's Information

Today's collectors might find an '87 Grand Prix valued anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on condition, mileage, options, and provenance. Production numbers were substantial but finding one in excellent condition is becoming increasingly rare. As interest in '80s vehicles grows among collectors, prices are slowly appreciating for well-preserved examples.

Conclusion

The 1987 Pontiac Grand Prix serves as a nostalgic reminder of American automotive culture during a transitional period—a time capsule on wheels that offers both luxury cruising comfort and echoes of muscle car heritage. Its significance lies not just in design or performance metrics but in its embodiment of an era's values and aspirations on four wheels.

1987 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

1987 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.

1987 Pontiac Grand Prix T-top Side Seals. Each piece 25" long. Pair-ELP 5020T-top Side Seals. Each piece 25" long. Pair

1987 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

1987 Pontiac Grand Prix Trunk Seal (Imported). Made with steel cores-IS-MW00101Trunk Seal (Imported). Made with steel cores. 1-3/8" X 3/4" X 17'. Each

1987 Pontiac Grand Prix Molded Door Seals. 2-door coupe-LM 16-JGMolded Door Seals. 2-door coupe. Replaces OEM part numbers 20277448/9. Pair. R&L.

1987 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.

1987 Pontiac Grand Prix Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide-M 30Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide. Sold by the foot

1987 Pontiac Grand Prix Trunk seal-MW00101Trunk seal. Also replaces '75-'79 Buick Skylark hatchback seal. Made with steel cores. 1-3/8 in. x 3/4 in. x 17 ft. L. Each.

1987 Pontiac Grand Prix Basic kit. ’81-’87 Pontiac Grand Prix 2-door coupe-RKB 1900-109Basic kit. '81-'87 Pontiac Grand Prix 2-door coupe. Door (LM 16-JG), roof-rail (RR 5020-M) and trunk (MW00101) seals. 5-piece set.

1987 Pontiac Grand Prix Basic kit-RKB 1900-118Basic kit. '82-'88 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, '81-'87 Pontiac Grand Prix 2-door coupe with T-top roof option. Door (LM 16-JG), T-top main body (TP 5020), T-top side panels (ELP 5020) and trunk (MW00101) seals. 7-piece set.

1987 Pontiac Grand Prix Molded Roof Rail Seals, for 2-Door Hardtop. Pair R&L-RR 5020-MMolded Roof Rail Seals, for 2-Door Hardtop. Pair R&L

1987 Pontiac Grand Prix Glove Box Bumper. Each-SB 78-AGlove Box Bumper. Each

1987 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

1987 Pontiac Grand Prix Window Sweeper Kit, 81-88 Monte Carlo, Grand Prix, Inner and Outer Sweeps-WC 7000-14Window Sweeper Kit, 81-88 Monte Carlo, Grand Prix, Inner and Outer Sweeps, with Reveal Molding, Includes Mounting Hardware, 4 Piece Kit.