Pontiac Grand Prix STE Turbo
by Don Sikora II
Observe: The next story was excerpted from the December 2019 problem of Collectible Car journal.
From the Pontiac Grand Prix’s 1962 introduction via 1989 it was solely a two-door automobile. That modified with the addition of four-door sedans for 1990. Extra-door GPs continued via 2008, however maybe probably the most attention-grabbing one of all of them got here from that inaugural season: the little-remembered STE Turbo.
Extra from Collectible Car Journal
This story begins with the 1988 Grand Prix that switched to a front-wheel-drive unibody design on the brand-new GM10 platform. The subsequent yr, Pontiac launched a limited-production Grand Prix Turbo. (We talked it up in an August 1990 Future Collectibles piece.) McLaren tweaked the automobile’s 3.1-liter V-6 engine, including a Garret turbocharger, intercooler, and different {hardware} like a stouter crankshaft. It was good for 205 horsepower and 220 pound-feet of torque. ASC carried out remaining meeting with additions that included distinctive decrease bodywork, practical hood louvers, and beefy Goodyears on eight-inch-wide wheels tucked below add-on fender flares.
When the ’90 Grand Prix sedan made its debut, base LE and top-of-the-line STE fashions have been out there. The STE (Particular Touring Version) nameplate already had credibility from the well-regarded sport-sedan model of Pontiac’s 6000. The GP STE ran a 140-horse 3.1-liter V-6, and could possibly be had with a five-speed guide transmission or four-speed automated. A specifically tuned suspension, quick-ratio steering, and STE-specific 16.5-inch wheels have been included too.
STE’s exterior styling differed considerably from the LE sedan. The obvious change was full-width headlight and taillight therapies. Entrance and rear fascias and the bodyside have been distinctive too. STE’s face included an oblong eggcrate grille built-in into the entrance bumper and divided into three sections by two vertical bumper-guard ribs. Considerably surprisingly, the outcome wasn’t a variation of the normal Pontiac break up grille, although all different Grand Prixs of the day included that anticipated design factor.
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Someday throughout the mannequin yr—the Chicago Tribune’s Jim Mateja narrowed it down a bit to “spring”—Pontiac added the STE Turbo to the lineup. Predictably, it included the Turbo coupe’s 205-horse V-6 and obligatory four-speed automated. Tools and look carefully adopted the lead of its naturally aspirated sibling, however “STE Turbo” badges on the entrance doorways and the coupe’s practical hood louvers have been added. It benefitted from commonplace antilock brakes however made do with STE’s wheels. A Pontiac gross sales folder quoted a 0-60-mph time of eight seconds for STE Turbo.
Whereas the STE caught round via 1993, the Turbo disappeared with the ’90 mannequin yr. From then on, the stoutest engine was a brand new dohc 3.4-liter V-6.
Based on the Encyclopedia of American Vehicles, the Grand Prix STE began at $18,539, with the Turbo ringing in at a lofty $23,775. (The GP Turbo coupe was dearer nonetheless at $26,016.) The identical supply lists mixed STE and Turbo sedan manufacturing of simply 5773.
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Professionals:
- Previewing the STE Turbo in its October 1989 problem, Automotive and Driver thought it a fast, comfy efficiency sedan, larger however higher than the outdated favourite 6000STE.
- These GPs have been effectively outfitted. Choices have been largely restricted to leather-based, radio upgrades, and a sunroof.
Cons:
- The Turbo’s 205 horsepower isn’t spectacular right now—nonetheless, take into account the cotemporary Tuned Port 5.0-liter V-8 in Pontiac’s Firebird Components and Trans Am made 200 ponies.
- Even by Pontiac requirements of its period, to our eyes the STE Turbo’s look is overwrought.
Ultimate Drive:
Accessible for simply months in 1990, the Grand Prix STE Turbo could be as obscure as Nineties Pontiac efficiency will get. A pleasant survivor could possibly be compelling low cost wheels.
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Pontiac Grand Prix STE Turbo
