There are times when cars that were very common when new become rare. Great examples would be a first-generation Toyota Camry, Chevrolet Celebrity or today’s Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com: an all-original 1985 Pontiac Grand Prix Brougham.
The Pontiac Grand Prix of the 1980s was a G-body car with underpinnings shared with the Chevy Monte Carlo, Olds Cutlass and the Buick Regal. Of all of these models, the one seemingly seen the least is the Grand Prix. I am guessing “Cash for Clunkers” got them all, as for every 25 Monte Carlos you see, you will be lucky to spot a single Grand Prix.
The fact that this Grand Prix exists in such excellent condition is nothing short of amazing. The listing states it has only covered a total of 60,412 miles – and I believe it, based on the condition. The dealer offering this car calls it “immaculate,” and we would agree.
The original Light Blue Metallic paint looks to be in almost perfect condition, with no fade noticeable anywhere – just look at the clouds reflected in the pristine paint in the photo above. Even the padded landau top with its opera lamps looks to be in perfect shape, with no wear or fading noticeable anywhere.
The interior is the same: the pillow-top Royal Blue velour seats are in flawless condition with no sagging, something you never see. This car is also equipped with air conditioning, which the seller says works perfectly, along with power windows, power driver’s seat, and optional Rally instrumentation. This Grand Prix is an absolute time capsule.
Under the hood, things are just as impressive, with the GM 305ci V8 looking as if it was just put in the car yesterday. It’s in show-winning condition, just like the rest of the car. The coolant overflow tank and windshield washer tank are the same color they were when new, with none of the yellowing you usually see on these plastic parts. I also see no evidence of corrosion on any of the fasteners.
Lest you think my evaluation of this Grand Prix is biased, I am not alone in my admiration. There is a new website called The Best on the Planet, which was created to call out the finest examples of a given car model that still exist. Their jurors voted and gave this exact car their Best On The Planet rating.
The asking price for this 1985 Pontiac Grand Prix is $18,995, which sounds like a bargain for a car that has been voted to be the best example of its type in the world.
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com