Pontiac Grand Prix (1972)
Price New
In 1972, the **Pontiac Grand Prix** was priced at approximately **£2,000** in the UK. This price could vary depending on the specific model and optional features.
Using the average inflation rate of **5.47% per year** from 1972 to 2025, **£2,000** in 1972 would be equivalent to approximately **£33,720** in 2025.
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Value
In 2025, the value of a **1972 Pontiac Grand Prix** in the UK can vary depending on its condition. On average, a Pontiac Grand Prix in good condition is worth around **£17,841**. However, prices can range from **£6,900** for cars in fair condition to **£131,670** for exceptionally well-maintained or rare models.
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Rivals
In 1972, the main rivals of the **Pontiac Grand Prix** in the UK included several luxury and performance-oriented cars. Here are some of their approximate new prices:
- **Ford Cortina Mk3**: Around **£963** for the base model, up to **£1,210** for higher-end versions.
- **Jaguar XJ6**: Around **£3,500**.
- **BMW 5 Series (E12)**: Around **£3,500**.
- **Mercedes-Benz 280E**: Around **£4,000**.
These cars offered a range of features and performance levels, competing with the Pontiac Grand Prix in the luxury and performance segments.
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Pontiac Specifications
Production Total
In **1972**, Pontiac produced a total of **91,961** Grand Prix models.
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Trim Levels
The **1972 Pontiac Grand Prix** was available in several trim levels, including:
1. **Grand Prix**: The base model offering essential features and a comfortable ride.
2. **Grand Prix Sport**: A sportier version with additional performance-oriented features.
3. **Grand Prix Brougham**: The top-of-the-line trim, providing the highest level of luxury and features.
These trim levels catered to different preferences, allowing buyers to choose the level of luxury and performance that best suited their needs.
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Generations
The **1972 Pontiac Grand Prix** was part of the **third generation** of this model, which spanned from **1969 to 1972**. In total, the Pontiac Grand Prix had **seven generations** from its introduction in **1962** until its discontinuation in **2008**.
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Designer/Dimensions
The **1972 Pontiac Grand Prix** was designed by **Bill Porter**, who was the Chief Designer at Pontiac during that time. He played a significant role in shaping the design of several iconic Pontiac models, including the Grand Prix.
As for its dimensions, the **1972 Pontiac Grand Prix** had the following specifications:
- **Length**: 212.9 inches (5,408 mm)
- **Wheelbase**: 118.0 inches (2,997 mm)
- **Width**: 76.4 inches (1,941 mm)
- **Height**: 52 inches (1,321 mm)
- **Weight**: 4,395 lbs (1,996 kg)
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COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.
The **1972 Pontiac Grand Prix** had several common faults reported by owners. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:
1. **Engine Problems**: Issues with the engine, including rough idling, stalling, and difficulty starting.
2. **Electrical Issues**: Problems with the electrical system, such as faulty gauges, dim headlights, and issues with the alternator.
3. **Transmission Problems**: Transmission issues, including rough shifting and difficulty engaging gears.
4. **Suspension Issues**: Problems with the suspension, such as worn-out shocks and struts, and issues with the steering system.
5. **HVAC Problems**: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) issues, including problems with the heater core and blower motor.
6. **Oil Pressure Gauge**: The oil pressure gauge sending unit could fail, causing inaccurate readings.
7. **Brake System**: Issues with the brake system, including worn brake pads and rotors, and problems with the brake master cylinder.
Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help mitigate these issues and keep your Grand Prix running smoothly.
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Engine
The **1972 Pontiac Grand Prix** was equipped with a **7.5-liter (455 cubic inch) V8 engine**. This engine produced **300 horsepower (220.8 kW)** at 4000 RPM and **465 lb-ft (627 Nm) of torque**. It was a powerful engine for its time, providing impressive performance and a smooth driving experience.
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Performance
The **1972 Pontiac Grand Prix** offered robust performance with its **7.5-liter (455 cubic inch) V8 engine**. Here are the key performance specifications:
- **Horsepower**: 300 hp (220.8 kW)
- **Torque**: 465 lb-ft (627 Nm)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 7 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 130 mph
The powerful V8 engine provided strong acceleration and impressive top speed, making the Grand Prix a notable performer in its class.
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Rivals
Let's compare the performance of the **1972 Pontiac Grand Prix** with its main rivals in the UK at that time:
### **1972 Pontiac Grand Prix**
- **Engine**: 7.5-liter (455 cubic inch) V8
- **Horsepower**: 300 hp
- **Torque**: 465 lb-ft
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 7 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 130 mph
### **Ford Thunderbird (1972)**
- **Engine**: 7.0-liter (429 cubic inch) V8
- **Horsepower**: 365 hp
- **Torque**: 480 lb-ft
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 6.5 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 135 mph
### **Chevrolet Monte Carlo (1972)**
- **Engine**: 7.4-liter (454 cubic inch) V8
- **Horsepower**: 270 hp
- **Torque**: 400 lb-ft
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 7.2 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 125 mph
### **Jaguar XJ6 (1972)**
- **Engine**: 4.2-liter inline-six
- **Horsepower**: 245 hp
- **Torque**: 285 lb-ft
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 8.5 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 120 mph
### **BMW 5 Series (E12) (1972)**
- **Engine**: 3.0-liter inline-six
- **Horsepower**: 180 hp
- **Torque**: 225 lb-ft
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 8.2 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 120 mph
As you can see, the Pontiac Grand Prix offered competitive performance, but its rivals had a mix of more powerful engines and slightly better acceleration and top speeds. However, the Grand Prix's combination of luxury and performance made it a strong contender in its class.
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Racing
The **1972 Pontiac Grand Prix** wasn't specifically designed for racing, but its powerful V8 engine and performance-oriented features made it a popular choice among car enthusiasts for **track days** and **autocross events**. While it wasn't a dedicated race car, its combination of luxury and performance allowed it to perform well in competitive driving scenarios.
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