1973 Pontiac Bonneville

Grand Ville - Convertible Land Yacht Convertible

455 cu in 7.5L V8

Automatic

2P67Y3X183788

Clear

Gasoline

1973 Pontiac Grand Ville (Bonneville) Convertible – Smooth Sailing Land Yacht 65K miles - A weekend cruiser since new. Original build sheets, owner’s manuals and documented service. Up for bid is this very nice example of a rare car in the even rarer convertible package. Grand Ville replaced Bonneville as Pontiac’s flagship trim level for 4 years only. The Grand Ville convertible had the lowest production among its corporate cousins (Oldsmobile 88 Royale, Buick LeSabre/Centurion, Chevrolet Caprice Classic and Cadillac Eldorado) convertible lines. Only about 4400 of these were made in 1973. If you've never owned a land yacht of this caliber, you’re in for a treat. Take a virtual tour at the following link --http://s1382.photobucket.com/user/rootedowne/library/1973%20Pontiac%20Grand%20Ville It would have been interesting to be a fly on the wall for planning discussions for this vehicle. The “Ville” marquee already had a pretty significant presence in GM’s lineup. The Grand Ville came standard with the juggernaut 455 cu in engine, Turbo-Hydramatic transmission, power steering (thank goodness) and power front disc brakes (ditto). It was a well appointed flagship car even in standard form. But, it had an intentionally less buttoned down aesthetic than Caddies and Buicks. The rally wheels look sharp pulled up to just about any club – very 70’s baby, very 70’s. Exterior – The car was repainted to its original “Florentine Red”. It’s almost a burgundy color and in my opinion a spot on color for this vehicle. It was a professional, thorough job and has excellent shine. Not to concours level, but pretty sharp by any standards and easy to enjoy. Interior – Seats are in excellent original condition. The tufted upholstery with center panel scrolls were high end options for other vehicles, but common on the already upscale convertible. The dash, steering wheel and other high use areas all demonstrate low usage and excellent preservation. The carpet was replaced about 2 years ago. It looks showroom new. Convertible Top – The soft top is new. The scissor framed power top works just fine. As with most convertible tops from this era, a little manipulation of the fabric folds is a good idea when stowing it away. The boot seen in top down pics is like new condition. Lights, Trim, Bumpers --The lenses are all in excellent shape. The bumpers on these are behemoth. They have 2 steel boxes filled with a mystery "resilient" material to absorb impact. Gotta protect the loved ones! Ads from the era really talked this up. A good laugh if you get a chance. Wheels & Tires--Classic rally wheels. This was a good call by Pontiac. Great way to put the power of all 455 cu inches to the tarmac. They are in excellent original condition. Tires have plenty of life left in them. Issues –It has always been a low usage car so; the paint was part of a light restoration. There are a few chips and minor scratches from use. The worst is a round spot on the rear fender where the door meets this panel (see 1st pic). The only evidence of spray I’ve seen is on the factory decals on the trunk lid (see 2nd pic). The trim piece behind the front bumper is plastic. Like many GM cars of the era, this is prone to paint peel which has started on this one too (see pics below). Overall, it is a very solid, dry car that has had a pampered life. You could take it to local shows with pride and drive there is style. Engine Bay & Trunk– A very honest, original engine bay. It has not been detailed in the least. Nothing to hide. This ample machine fires right up, idles smooth and pulls strong. If you wanted to dress it up a bit more for show, it would not be a difficult task. Same goes for the trunk. Documentation – The original factory build sheet, owner’s manual, operating instructions and warranty have stayed with the vehicle since new. Pride in ownership at work. The small item in the pictures below is a service tracking sheet that is still in place below the dash. It indicates a mileage of 62k back in 1994. A car’s destiny is pretty much set during the first 20 years of ownership. This is one convertible that was always an “extra” vehicle. Sweet. Undercarriage – Same level of presentation here – honest and very original. The generous lower side trim is in very good shape. Rocker panels are as solid as the rest of the car. Again, the frame and undercarriage could be dressed up, but as is it’s a very solid original state. The rear section of exhaust including the mufflers was replaced. Let’s just say they do the sizable engine proud. Not obnoxious, but a nice low rumble. Driving – I think it’s interesting how massive cars of the era came equipped with very thin steering wheels. It almost begs for fingertip control and it doesn't disappoint. This boat glides whether you’re white knuckled or loose gripped. Just apply accelerator, point and allow the beast under the appropriately sized hood to get you to your destination. A body in motion, stays in motion. Imagine the feeling of pride they had getting such a large comfortable car to cruise down the freeway with such ease -- a magic carpet ride. Ahh, the days of wide track cars! To say they had different engineering and design directives at the time is an understatement. Questions, Bidding, Shipping, etc.Bidding -- the reserve will be kept in confidence in this listing out of respect for the bidding process. Simply bid the amount you feel comfortable investing is a classic preserved and restored to this level. If you have any questions, please call -- (816) 786-7534.Like many rare classics, the Grand Ville is starting to gain recognition for it's place in automotive history. I imagine there will be quite a few people involved in this process. Please have your finances in order and treat the bidding process as the serious contract to purchase that it is -- before you bid. Everyone wins when the process is treated with respect. Many thanks in advance.Shipping -- transportation is the responsibility of the buyer. I will help out with basic logistics on my end and make sure it is easy and straight forward. If you have any questions, please call.It was my intention to do a very thorough job of capturing this classic luxury liner with pictures and my description. If you have any questions or want to arrange to see it or have it inspected, please let me know. I can't wait to see what the future holds in store!