Information about the GTP

General Info:

  • Official Name: 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP
  • Scientific Name: GM W-body
  • Nickname: Never had one, oddly.
  • Color: Black

Under the Hood:

  • Engine: 3.8 Liter (231 c.i.) V6, OHV, 2 Valves/Cyl, Supercharged
  • Horsepower: 240 @ 5200 RPM
  • Torque: 280 ft-lbs @ 3200 RPM
  • Transmission: 4-speed automatic w/overdrive

Dimensions:

  • Length: 196.5" (4.99 meters)
  • Width: 72.7" (1.85 meters)
  • Height: 54.7" (1.39 meters)
  • Wheelbase: 110.5" (2.81 meters)
  • Track, front/rear: 61.7"/61.1" (1.57m/1.55m)
  • Curb Weight: 3400 lbs (1540 kg)
  • Tires: Cooper Cobra GTH 225/60HR16

Performance:
(as tested by Motor Trend)

  • 0-60 mph, sec: 6.6
  • Quarter Mile, sec/mph: 15.0@92.3 mph
  • Braking, 60-0 mph, ft: 134 ft

About the GTP
(Feburary, 2000 - June, 2002)

The Grand Prix GTP
240 supercharged horsepower

Ah, the GTP. Of all the car's I've owned, this was my favorite to drive by far. It had gobs of power, excellent handling, and it was beautiful. Sadly, it was also expensive to insure and fill up with gas (needed premium unleaded).

Fastest timeslip
Best time ever (right column)

In the end, it had to be sold so that we could get two cars (Grand Am, Bonneville) for Beka and myself. The extra money went toward our house down payment. We still miss this car though.

Modifications

Thrasher Cold Air Intake

Before CAI
Before CAI
After CAI
After CAI

In order to free up power by reducing intake restrictions, I have installed the Thrasher CAI. This setup replaces the complicated stock airbox and ductwork with a free-flowing K&N air filter inside a polycarbonate box.

The installation was somewhat complicated and time-consuming, but the results have been good so far. The car now has a cool intake whine under hard acceleration, and fuel mileage seems to be up slightly. Acceleration feels strong, and I hope to get some numbers at the track this summer.

Strut tower braces

STB installed
The STB installed

For a mere $26.12, tax included, this modification was too cheap to pass up. These braces are meant for the Buick Regal, but they bolt on to a Grand Prix just fine. Some drilling is required for the front, but the rear uses an existing bolt and nut. This easy project made the GTP feel stiffer, and it now has fewer squeaks and rattles.