Pontiac Grand Prix 1966: new generation

In 1965, all full-size Pontiac models, including the Grand Prix, were completely restyled. These were the first models of the company to feature the well-known rounded body profile, resembling a Coca-Cola bottle. While other Pontiac coupes received a semi-fastback roofline that same year (a style shared with some other GM divisions), the Grand Prix retained the exclusive geometric line of the rear pillars, with only the rear window slightly rounded inward. This new generation of Pontiac also introduced for the first time the covers for the rear fender openings, similar to the more luxurious models of Cadillac, Buick and Oldsmobile piese auto online.

Pontiac Grand Prix 1966: new generation

The interior was revised with new panels with a larger area of walnut trim that now extended to the center console. Seats were standard, the steering wheel was all-new, with a built-in horn that replaced the distinctive chrome ring used in previous models. Seats could be upholstered in vinyl or cloth. New for 1965 was the option of a full-length front bench seat with a folding center armrest and several upholstery options.

The Grand Prix retains its position as the most expensive model, offering all the equipment available on the Bonneville hardtop coupe, and can be purchased for $3,426 (equivalent to $34,184 in 2024). New options include "Comfort Control" automatic air conditioning, first introduced by Cadillac in 1964, which is available in addition to the standard Circ-L-Aire Conditioning system, as well as hazard warning lights and seat belts.

Engine options were revised, and in 1965 were limited to the standard 389 cubic inch (6.4 liter) V8, whose power was increased to 333 hp (248 kW) with a manual transmission or 325 hp (242 kW) with an automatic. The 389 Tri-Power and 421 engines were added as options – both with 338 hp (252 kW), the 421 Tri-Power with 350 hp (260 kW), and the 421 HO Tri-Power with 376 hp (280 kW).

The standard three-speed and optional four-speed manual transmissions were identical to those of 1964, but a new three-speed Turbo Hydramatic torque converter transmission was added. It was similar in principle to Ford's Cruise-O-Matic and Chrysler's TorqueFlite, and replaced the older three-speed Roto Hydramatic hydraulic transmission.

In 1966, when the car shown in the photos was produced, the Grand Prix received only a few minor changes to its appearance, including a new, more rounded radiator grille divided into two, as well as new trim for the hidden taillights. The instrument panel featured a modernized square panel. The Strato seats, with "Morrokide" upholstery, were also completely new, with higher backrests and improved lateral support.

Engine offerings remained largely unchanged, except that the optional 338 hp (252 kW) Tri-Power 389 was discontinued, leaving only the larger 421 with a dual-barrel carburetor option. However, it was offered for the last time in 1966, after which General Motors banned the use of multi-carburetor options in all GM vehicles except the Chevrolet Corvette, effective with the 1967 model year.

The car shown in the photos – Pontiac Grand Prix, model year 1966, was presented at the 35th retro parade on the occasion of Spasovden, held on May 31, 2025 in Sofia. It is part of the collection of Ivaylo Zafirov and is equipped with a 6.4-liter engine with a power of 330 hp.

Car parts AutoPower
Car parts AutoPower

The interior was revised with new panels with a larger area of walnut trim that now extended to the center console

The Grand Prix retains its position as the most expensive model, offering all the equipment available on the Bonneville hardtop coupe, and can be purchased for $3,426 (equivalent to $34,184 in 2024)