One Family Owned: 1976 Pontiac Grand Prix LJ

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Choosing to part with a classic that has been part of the same family since the day it rolled off the showroom floor can be difficult, but it is the one taken by the owners of this 1976 Pontiac Grand Prix LJ. After gracing their garage for over four decades, it is set to find a new home. However, the process hasn’t been easy because this is the second time they have listed this tidy survivor. They have taken a different tack this time, abandoning the auction process in favor of a BIN approach. The Grand Prix is listed here on eBay in Albany, Georgia. The seller set their price at $12,900 with the option to make an offer.

Pontiac’s Fourth Generation Grand Prix graced showroom floors from 1973 until 1977. The seller took delivery of our feature car in 1976, ordering it in Bavarian Cream and Pueblo Beige with a Landau-style vinyl top that matches the darker shade. The seller doesn’t mention a history of restoration or repairs, suggesting the Pontiac is a genuine survivor. The overall presentation is comfortably acceptable if that is the case. The nose has the typical collection of unavoidable small rock chips, and there are minor scratches in a couple of locations, but the overall condition would still receive positive comments. There are no glaring rust issues, although a small spot might be emerging from under the rear wheel arch molding on the driver’s side. The panels are straight, the vinyl is in good order, and the tinted glass has no significant flaws. The wheels feature color-coded centers, but some slight deterioration may motivate the new owner to refresh these.

The interior of older classics can often reveal a history of neglect or abuse, especially if cloth trim is part of the story. This Grand Prix features Beige cloth, and its condition is remarkably good. There might be some minor wear on the outer edges of the front seats, but there are no problems justifying a retrim. The back seat is in good order, and the carpet only shows slight deterioration below the driver’s left foot. The vinyl appears to be starting to lift on the leading edge of the driver’s armrest, but a dab of glue should set that straight. The Pontiac’s luxury car credentials shine through courtesy of air conditioning, power windows, power locks, a six-way power driver’s seat, a tilt wheel, and AM/FM radio.

Ordering a 1976 Grand Prix J brought the 350ci V8 as standard fare, but the LJ variant upped the ante with the 400ci powerplant. A three-speed Turbo Hydramatic was the only available transmission, while power assistance for the steering and brakes was an integral part of the package. The 400 was feeling the impact of tightening emission regulations by 1976, with this engine producing 185hp and 310 ft/lbs of torque. However, those figures were what buyers expected during this period, and years would pass before American manufacturers would find ways of regaining lost ground via fuel injection and engine management technology. The seller indicates the Grand Prix has 112,000 miles on the clock, and the ownership history means they may hold verifying evidence. The car runs and drives perfectly, ready to provide immediate classic motoring fun to the new owner.

This 1976 Pontiac Grand Prix LJ isn’t perfect, but it is a tidy survivor with a known ownership history. A cosmetic refresh would recapture its glory days, but it is not essential. Touching up its few paint imperfections and opting for general preservation might be a better approach and undoubtedly the most affordable. The ’76 Grand Prix LJ has been one of the star performers in this year’s classic market, with values climbing by around 20% across the board. The BIN figure is realistic, and it will be fascinating to see whether the seller tastes sales success this time. Are you tempted to make it happen?

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Comments

  1. ClassicP

    Favorite car 73-77 Grand Prix. If you love to drive these cars offered nice handling and smooth driving with the 73’ model the from the generation

    Like 5
  2. Jon Rukavina

    Like the 2-tone color combo. Car is loaded up, with cruise and looks to be a power trunk opener.
    Somebody will have a decent cruiser.

    Like 4
  3. OtterdogMember

    I don’t think I’ve ever seen a car scream “GRAMPA” so hard before.

    Like 4
    • MrBZ

      I don’t think I have ever seen a post scream “I’M A CHILD” so hard before.

      Like 16
  4. ARTHUR DERENMember

    these cars were solidly built like army tanks. art deren

    Like 0

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