1997 Pontiac Grand Am Reviews, Pricing & Specs

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$15,259 to $16,499

Original MSRP

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expert review

3.7

avg user rating

(44 reviews)
1997 Pontiac Grand Am Preview summaryImage

Pontiac was busy concentrating on some of its other models this year, so the 1997 Pontiac Grand Am only got one major change -- air conditioning was now standard across all trim levels. The affordable mid-size sedan or coupe came in a base SE trim and a sportier GT. The SE and GT both housed a 2.4-liter, Twin Cam I4 that got 150-hp with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. The GT had the option of a 3.1-liter, 155-hp V6 that got 30 more lb-ft of torque, but was mated only with the 4-speed auto tran.
The 1997 Grand Am still led the pack in the GM lineup, popular for its affordability, performance, and style. With now-standard air conditioning, it also benefited from being well-loaded, with dual front airbags, ABS brakes, daytime running lights, a center and overhead console, fog lights, power locks, and a tachometer even on the SE. While the GT models were the sportiest of the line, with a special suspension, larger anti-sway bars, and a rear spoiler, even the SE sedan had the option of adding leather seats, power driver's seat, its own spoiler, a sunroof, and cruise control. There are a lot of 1997 Grand Am owners who love their car's performance and handling on the highway, commenting on its good pickup, sporty styling, decent fuel economy, and overall affordability. Comfortable seats and a roomy trunk that can be accessed from the back seat are also high points. But a lot of owners complain about constant mechanical and electrical problems with the Grand Am, and question its reliability. Alternator repairs and brake pads that wear too quickly are common complaints. Drivers also mention that the Grand Am gets knocked around easily by the wind, has a wide turning radius, and plastic parts that break.

CarGurus Editorial Team
Published Aug 9, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
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User reviews for 1997 Pontiac Grand Am

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User rating:
by Anonymous
Nov 29, 2014
good car ..but ..engine 3.1 v6 sfi ,, is not the best ... alots of 3.1 has head gasket trouble issus and some prematured rust on the rear fender ,,good for traveling or go to work,, fun to customize. it ... medium cost on gasNov 29, 2014
by Anonymous
Aug 20, 2013
Until this problem with the lock cylinder, the care has been great . It only needs work occassionally and gets good gas mileage. The suspension has been good despite it's age. Recent maintenance has included front brakes, tires, battery, plugs, and MAP sensor.Aug 20, 2013
by Anonymous
May 21, 2012
This is a 1997 Pontiac Grand Am, cheap work car, has new AC compressor however, still does not work, someone said something about an expansion valve? Have issues with the windows getting off track, however if you need an inexpensive vehicle to drive back and forth to work, it will get you there.May 21, 2012

1997 Pontiac Grand Am Pricing

Original MSRP
$15,259 to $16,499
Price range
N/A
Average price on CG
N/A
YoY price change
N/A

Trims & specs

Airbags

Dual front airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-only · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth

Tires and Rims

Wheels: alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Airbags

Dual front airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-only · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather

Tires and Rims

Wheels: alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Airbags

Dual front airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Rear Seats

Type: bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Airbags

Dual front airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

See all trims (4)