Pontiac Grand Prix

vs

Pontiac G8 GXP

USA vs USA — 1962 vs 2008

Pontiac Grand Prix (1962)
Pontiac G8 GXP (2008)
Specifications
Grand Prix SJ 455G8 GXP 6.2 LS3
Horsepower325 hp415 hp
Torque440 lb-ft415 lb-ft
Engine Size7,456 cc6,162 cc
0-60 mph7.5 sec4.7 sec
Top Speed125 mph170 mph
¼ Mile15.3 sec12.9 sec
Weight3,800 lbs3,995 lbs
Wheelbase2,946 mm2,915 mm
Length5,360 mm4,979 mm
Units Produced112,4861,829
Original MSRP$3,549$39,995
Value (Excellent)$40,000$60,000
Collectibility6/107/10
Rarity5/108/10
The Verdict

The 2008 Pontiac G8 GXP 6.2 LS3 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1962 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ 455 counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

The 1962 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ 455 and 2008 Pontiac G8 GXP 6.2 LS3 share a manufacturer in Pontiac, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Pontiac brand. The 2008 Pontiac G8 GXP 6.2 LS3 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 415 hp compared to 325 hp, a 90-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2008 Pontiac G8 GXP 6.2 LS3 edges ahead at 4.7 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,829 units built, the 2008 Pontiac G8 GXP 6.2 LS3 is considerably scarcer than the Pontiac Grand Prix's 112,486 examples.