The Grand Am continues to be the top-selling Pontiac in the U.S. and one of the top ten most popular cars overall. The mid-size sedan or coupe tries to seamlessly blend practicality with performance, combining interior space with a sporty engine and sleek exterior styling, all at an affordable pricetag. New colors and a standard mp3 player in the GT trims are what's new for the 2004 Pontiac Grand Am. The SE, SE1, and SE2 trims come in sedan only, featuring either the Ecotec 2.2-liter, 140-hp I4 engine coupled with a standard 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic, or the 3.4-liter, 170-hp V6. The V6 engine only comes with an automatic transmission. The GT and GT1 can be had as a coupe or sedan with a Ram Air version of the V6 rated at 175-hp. The SE2 sedan is more luxury oriented, with many more standard features, while the GT models are focused on performance, with bigger tires, anti-sway bars, rear spoiler, and a stiffer and lower suspension.
There is only one more year left for the 2004 Grand Am, and some owners say good riddance. The Grand Am has been riddled with repair problems, though not as many with this current generation. Most of these repairs have to do with the window regulator and the brakes. Drivers also say the seats are uncomfortable, the car is hard to get in and out of, and the trunk opening is too small. Cheap plastic materials spoil the overall sporty image, and most would like a manual transmission with the V6. On the plus side, everyone likes the Grand Am's looks, which are much sportier than the actual performance. Engine power and acceleration are good, as is the handling. Many owners say it is fun to drive on the highway, and gets good gas mileage even in the city.