1983 Pontiac Grand Prix
Personal story and photograph submitted by owner Tim Kniffel
for participation in the the 2008 GM Century Cruise
In 1983, I was 15 years old (on the cusp of obtaining my permanent driver's license). I was obsessed with G-body coupe cars of this era (Grand Prix, Cutlass, Regal, Monte Carlo). I especially liked the sportiness of the performance models (Grand Prix LJ with buckets, Cutlass Calais/Salon, Monte Carlo SS, Regal T Type/GN). The styling of each brand was distinctive and I was partial to the Grand Prix as it seemed more "rounded" than the Cutlass, Monte Carlo or Regal. Some of the Grand Prix styling cues I appreciated were the V formations in the hood/decklid and the rear quarter "bulges" over the rear wheels. The front end and rear end styling were appealing too as the incorporated the V formations on the horizontal surfaces of the hood and decklid respectively.
It just so happened that my uncle bought his first GM car in 1983 and it was a Pontiac Grand Prix. I can remember driving that vehicle when it was new. My uncle took great care of this vehicle and drove it very sparingly over the next 22 years. He had to have it repainted at a local paint shop in Pinconning, Michigan. Unfortunately, my uncle passed away a few years ago and he remembered how much I loved his Grand Prix. My Dad gave it to me when his estate was settled. I removed the drive train (V6, three speed auto) and inserted a corresponding drive train from a 1988 M/C SS (V8, four speed auto). Additionally, I replaced the suspension components/steering gear with the parts from the Monte Carlo. I recently lowered the vehicle (Eibach Pro Kit) and installed aluminum wheels from a '92 Firebird.
The car runs nicely and handles very well. I enjoy driving it when I get the chance.
GM’s Century Cruise pays tribute to GM’s past and the passion owners have for their vehicles. On Saturday, August 16, 2008 this vehicle and more than 100 other classic GM vehicles will cruise from the GM Global Headquarters at the Renaissance Center up Woodward Avenue to the heart of the Woodward Dream Cruise in Royal Oak and the surrounding suburbs. One of these vehicles will be crowned “top cruiser” based on a text voting campaign.
Next GM Century Cruise Participant
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