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Consumer Test Drive - 1999 Pontiac Grand Am
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| Updated |
Jun 10, 2004 22:53:22 |
| Rating |
 94 ( -10 -10.63% ) | | Author | Gregg Sentell |
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Description:
Overall Rating:
Comfort Rating:
Performance Rating:
Quality Rating:
Appearance Rating:
Favorite Feature:
Performance, Character, Quality, Handling
Least Favorite Feature:
The number of available exterior and interior color combinations
Advice to Buyer:
Be sure to compare this vehicle with the Oldsmobile Alero GLS. Built on the same basic platform, the GLS, while giving up some performance figures to the Grand Am Gt, it is a little bit more conservative in appearance.
Detailed Review:
Pontiac has achieved true 'excitement' in the newly revamped 1999 Grand Am. From the base 4-cylinder SE, to the 3.4 liter 'Ram-Air' V6, Pontiac has obviously done theirhomework in designing a car that is both fresh in overall appearance, and a true joy to drive or even simply ride in.
I test drove the GT1 model which has all the bells and whistles included in a relatively low sticker price for what you get. Comfort wise, the independent sport suspension, takes away a little bit, but the Grand AM GT isn't supposed to feel like a Lincoln Town Car. The standard cloth provides suitable comfort, but for a much more enjoyable feel, $485 is not too much to pay for the added comfort of leather seating areas. Comfort - 4 out of 5
Pontiac has done well with the high-output 'Ram-Air' V6. Although ratings are just a little bit higher (175Hp, 205ft/lb torque) it is definitely noticeable when compared to the 3.4 V6 in the SE model, and the Oldsmobile Alero GLS. Acceleration figures in the GT will be able to out-perform many V8's on the market. Combined with the independent sport suspension, this car is a true joy to drive. Performance - 5 out of 5
The Grand Am in all trim levels is very solidly put together. Over rough surfaces, the GT is a little more 'stiff' than the SE, but that is what one would come to expect. Comparing it with other cars in its class, you will be very pleased with the overall quality of this vehicle. Overall Quality - 5 out of 5
The appearance of any Pontiac vehicle is truly objective, and with the Grand Am Se and GT trims, this car is no different. I was thoroughly pleased with the appearance of this vehicle, and whether you love it or hate it, the Grand Am will definitely turn heads. Appearance - 5 out of 5
Pontiac has done a great job with the overall design and layout of the new Grand Am. While the GT is truly a sports sedan with an attitude, the base SE, even with the 4-cylinder engine, will make commuting a more pleasurable experience.
Overall Rating (GT) 4.7 out of 5
Be sure to watch for the 2000 models, although virtually the same, the stereo configurations will be somewhat different, as will the number of exterior colors available. I ordered a 2000 GT1.
Also Considered:
1999 Oldsmobile Alero
1999 Nissan Maxima
1999 Honda Accord
Reviewer Information:
Name - Gregg Sentell
E-Mail - Greggd1231@aol.com
Location - Alcoa, Tennessee |
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