I think grand prixs are too common they hold value (around here anyway mainly because they're highschooler/young adult cars) good and I love the look but pretty common then again so are Montes I guess. Not so much around where I live but I do see them a lot. But not as much a Mustangs so sick of seeing them lol. I guess I would also throw the Malibu in that lineup my co worker has a black one that is amazing nice fatures good ride sleek body. Would throw the Charger in there but you said no Chyrsler if I recall.

 

I like both the GXPs, Pontiac made the cars different then the other cars in the line, Chevy just makes a few changes and slaps SS on the side, anyone that wants to can fairly easily & cheaply turn an LS into a SS clone, and yes I realize I have an Impala SS and Monte Carlo SS, part of the reason it's a mild irritation to me. buy a new spoiler, some wheels and badges and BOOM SS.

Around here Grand Prixs are popular too, but the GXPs aren't near as plentiful. And if memory serves they only sold something like 12000 BONNEVILLE GXPs each year. Pretty tough to find them that's one reason I like them rare and different. The price for Grand Prixs in this area are actually pretty low, comparable Impala SS and GP GXP the GXP is cheaper, I'm guessing fear of parts availability?!?!

 

I only know of 1 GP GXP around here and I've never seen a Bonneville.

 

if i had to pick between the gxps id pick the gp over the bonne. i dont know if the bonneville got the upgraded brakes, and suspension like the gp, but id rather have the ls motor over that n* thats for sure. if i had to pick a car with 85k miles on it. id avoid the ls4 car. that tranny is going to be questionable unless theres proof of a rebuild. if that kind of mileage is whats necessary to afford one of these cars the gto would probably be the most reliable, but certainly not the most fuel efficient. you could always hold out a bit more and get a g8 gt in a year or so in your price range.

 

why not a g6 coupe?

 

Just to add to this, in 2004 they fixed the head problems in the northstar engines that happened in the previous version of the car. So if that is why you wouldn't want the engine, it's a non-issue in those.

 

As Mike said, the newer northstars are more reliable than the older ones. Plus they use the stronger 4t80e trans which is practically bullet proof. I would go with the bonneville over the GP because of the transmission, and the interiors of the bonnevilles are better looking and less plasticy.

 

It's on my list, but not crazy about electric steering.

Both cars use the 4t65e-hd as far as I know.

EDIT: you are right, the h-body uses the 4t80e

 

Just the northstar ones. I believe all the other bonnevilles use the 4t65e

 

I just checked alldata. It has the trans in a 2005 Bonneville GXP listed as a 4t80e.