Pontiac Grand-Am:Review the specs, features and pros & cons

Pontiac Grand-Am Safety

As a classic-era model with sporadic production ending more than a decade ago, you may find fewer safety features compared to more modern vehicles. However, the 2000 Pontiac Grand Am made rear child-seat anchors a standard feature, and the ’01 added lower anchors for reinforced safety. A 1998 redesign introduced next-gen airbags and anti-lock brakes. In 2003, all trim levels except SE got OnStar, an in-vehicle emergency services communication tool.

Pontiac Grand-Am Interior

On the 1973 Grand Am, a headlight dimmer mounted on the turn-signal switch was a first for cars manufactured in America. This generation also featured bucket seats, tinted glass and African mahogany trim on the instrument panel—which was changed out on the ’74 model due to splintering. Fast-forward to standard air conditioning in the latest generation. 

Other features you can find in later model years include:

• Power windows and locks
• Power driver’s seat
• Sunroof

Pontiac Grand-Am Technology

Jam to your tunes with the 2001 Pontiac Grand Am and its eight-speaker Monsoon unit with AM/FM/CD/cassette and seven-band equalizer. If this music technology doesn't suit you, a better bet is the ’04 model with optional MP3 upgrade for all trims except SE. Other features on the latest generation are:

• Cruise control, standard since 2001
• Satellite radio, available on all models starting in 2003
• Steering wheel-mounted controls

Pontiac Grand-Am Space

Although the Pontiac Grand Am was designed for five passengers, you will notice differences in space because of the car styles. Sedans have more headroom and legroom compared to coupes, so three passengers might feel snug in the back seat of the coupe. However, should you choose a Pontiac Grand Am from the first generation, space won't be an issue because they were designed as "large" mid-size vehicles. A sunroof came standard in the fifth and final iteration of the Grand Am, creating an airy interior feel.

Pontiac Grand-Am Comfort

Early Grand Ams were rear-wheel drive. The final generation is front-wheel drive, providing traction in bad weather since the weight of the engine and transmission are positioned over the front wheels. Sound from the four-cylinder engine in newer Grand Ams is noted to creep into the cabin. Starting in 2002, the base engine was swapped in favour of a smaller, less powerful 2.2 L, trading off for improved fuel economy. Drivers looking for stiffer suspension and speed-sensitive power steering should opt for the GT trim.