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1971 Pontiac Grand Prix

The '71 Grand Prix? A total '70s icon! Big, bold, and undeniably stylish, it was a personal luxury coupe that oozed cool. Its sharp lines and prominent grille made it instantly recognizable, a symbol of that era's muscle car swagger, even if slightly toned down. A true classic.

The Iconic 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix: A Classic Car Enthusiast's Dream

Who would've guessed that a car designed in the early '70s could still catch eyes today? The 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix might not have always been in the limelight, but its blend of luxury, performance, and cultural significance makes it a standout. Let's dive into what makes this car a classic.

Photo of a 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix

1971 Pontiac Grand Prix Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Pontiac Grand Prix Worth?

Original MSRP :$4,314.00

Outstanding

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$36,700

Clean

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$25,500

Average

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$11,600*

Rough

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$8,800

1971 Pontiac Grand Prix Specs

Body Maker: Fisher
No. Of Doors: 2
Model Number: 6657
Length: 210.5 inches
Width: 75.9 inches
Height: 55.4 inches
Wheelbase: 118 inches
Weight: 3,838lbs
Type: Own, V8, OHV, Downdraft 4-barrel, Fully synchronized
Displacement: 400 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 4.125 & 3 3/4 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 8.2 to 1
Horsepower Brake: 300@4800
Horsepower Rated: 54.3
Torque: 400@3600
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Hydraulic
Block Material: Cast Iron
Engine Number Location: On pad at front of right side of block.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Rochester
Type:
2.8 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
10 2/5 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.42 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.58
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
2.41
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.23 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Coil link
Service Type: Power front disc, rear self-adjusting drum
Service Front Size: 11 inches
Service Rear Size: 9.5 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 9.5 inches
Type: Premium
Tire Size: G78 x 14
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 24.5 Gallons
Oil: 5 Quarts
Rear Differential: 3 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:Starting 266571a100001
Total Digits:13
Digits 1:Make
Digits 2-3:Series
Digits 4-5:Body style
Digits 6:Model year
Digits 7:Assembly plant
Digits 8-13:Production number
Starlight Black, Lucerne Blue Metallic, Baja Gold Metallic, Cardinal Red, Rosewood Metallic, Cameo White, Nordic Silver Metallic, Bluestone Gray Metallic, Adriatic Blue Metallic, Regency Blue Metallic, Aquarius Green Metallic, Limekist Green Metallic, Tropical Lime Metallic, Laurentian Green Metallic, All colors may not be available in all models.
Hardtop: Opt
Turbo Hydramatic Automatic Transmission: Opt
Power Windows: Opt
Air Conditioning: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
Power Seats: Opt
Radio: Opt
Speed Control Device: Opt

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History of the 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix

The 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix isn't just any classic car; it represents a key era in America's love affair with automobiles. Crafted at a time when power and aesthetics went hand in hand, this model is a testament to the ambition of Pontiac during the muscle car golden age【4:2†file】.

Design Evolution

We're talking about a design shift here—one that aligned with the flashy styles of the early '70s. It wasn't just about lookin' pretty; the Grand Prix packed more aggressive aesthetics and performance features. Critics sometimes called it "garish," but let's be real, it was part of its charm【4:3†file】.

Market Performance

Even though it started strong in the sales department, the 1971 Grand Prix soon faced market headwinds. Rising fuel prices and the oil crisis saw a dip in sales. Yet, despite this downturn, the Grand Prix left an indelible mark on the muscle car scene【4:3†file】.

Impact of Regulations

This was also a period of regulatory upheaval, mandating new safety measures. The Grand Prix adapted with features like collapsible steering columns and energy-absorbing steering wheels, staying competitive and appealing to the safety-conscious driver【4:3†file】.

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Famous Figures Who Own the 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix

Here's the thing: owning a 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix wasn't just about having a sweet ride. It was about owning a piece of luxury, style, and performance synonymous with high-profile individuals.

Frank Sinatra

Old Blue Eyes himself, Frank Sinatra, was one such personality who had a thing for these luxury cruisers. His ownership reflected the glitz and glamour of Hollywood in its heyday【4:3†file】.

Bob Hope

And then there's Bob Hope, whose love for the Grand Prix highlighted its status as a chic emblem among entertainers. Hope, like Sinatra, owned one, driving around Hollywood as if showcasing sophistication on wheels【4:3†file】.

Cultural References

The Pontiac Grand Prix also carved a niche in popular media. Featuring in films and TV shows, it stood as a symbol of sophistication and power. You might've even seen it driven by characters who oozed luxury and influence【4:3†file】.

Collector's Market

Classic car collectors? They love a good story, and the Grand Prix doesn't disappoint. Especially those models linked to celebrities or with extensive service histories. Thanks to its unique blend of style, performance, and celebrity lineage, the 1971 model is a hot commodity【4:3†file】.

Price Records and Market Value

Have you ever wondered what one goes for these days? As it turns out, prices can swing from around $15,000 to over $50,000, depending on condition and provenance【4:1†file】.

Speed Records

For the gearheads out there, let's talk numbers. The Grand Prix could dash from 0-60 mph in about 7.5 seconds—pretty quick for that era. Its top speed wasn't too shabby either, clocking in around 125 mph【4:1†file】.

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So, why not take a drive down memory lane with the 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix and consider giving it a new home? Or maybe it's time your classic finds a new admirer.

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Explore Pontiac Grand Prix from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

The '71 Grand Prix? Man, that's a cool car! It's instantly recognizable, you know? Think sleek lines, a long hood, and that distinctive fastback roofline. It was all about that 'personal luxury' vibe—a bit sportier than your average land yacht, if you get what I mean. The styling was really something else; Pontiac nailed the era's aesthetic. They really knew how to make a statement with those cars. Oh, and those iconic split grilles? Pure '70s muscle. You'll see them instantly. Key features include the Colonnade styling, which is essentially a pillarless hardtop, and it generally came with a big V8 engine, giving it some serious oomph under the hood.

Okay, so under the hood, you had some choices. The base engine was usually a 400 cubic inch V8; it was a pretty solid performer. But, if you wanted more power—and let's be honest, who didn't?—you could step up to a larger 455 cubic inch V8. That was the real muscle; it's the one that makes heads turn. Think of it like this: the 400 is a great all-arounder, but the 455 is the heavyweight champion. There were also some variations depending on the specific trim level and options—it's a bit of a rabbit hole if you really delve into it. So if you're doing research, you'll want to be pretty specific.

Most '71 Grand Prix models came with a three-speed automatic transmission; it was smooth and pretty typical for the time. A few were equipped with a four-speed manual, though these are rarer. They're coveted by enthusiasts now, obviously. Think of the automatic as the everyday driver, perfect for cruising down the highway, and the manual as the sportier, more engaged option—more fun, but maybe a bit less comfortable for everyday drives. So it really depends on what you're after.

Well, like any classic car from that era, there are some things to watch out for. Rust is a big one—especially in areas known for harsh winters. So check the body panels closely; it's a must. The electrical systems can also be finicky; those old components can get temperamental. Also, it's a good idea to have a mechanic check the engine and transmission thoroughly before committing to a purchase— it’s a good investment in the long run. Think of it as a pre-purchase checkup, like you would for your pet or yourself. Don't just take my word for it! Do your homework. You don't want any nasty surprises down the road.

The value of a classic car, like this one, is entirely dependent on condition, options and originality. A pristine, numbers-matching example (meaning all original parts) will fetch a much higher price than a car needing restoration. Rare options, like specific paint colors or interior combinations can influence value, too. It is quite a complex factor really; think of it like a stock investment, with many variables influencing its price. It's always best to check current market values using resources specializing in classic car appraisals. Do your research!