If you want to make a sleeper, then you’re gonna need power, and if you want power, then one of the most common solutions is an unholy amount of boost, either from a supercharger or a turbocharger. Well, as it just so happens, this 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP is rocking both, force-feeding the humble V6 to throw down with 530 horsepower at the wheels. The result is an unassuming two-door that’s ludicrously quick when you put your foot down.
Let’s start under the hood. This GTP originally featured a factory-supercharged V6 engine, making for some decently quick performance in stock guise, at least for its day. However, this particular example adds a compound boost system to the mix, with the factory supercharger complemented by a 62mm Precision turbocharger. This twin-charged setup delivers substantial power gains, with boost building even at idle. While exciting, the immense torque poses challenges for the front-wheel-drive chassis, including pronounced torque steer under hard acceleration.
Beyond the engine, this Grand Prix GTP is packed with upgrades that elevate its performance and driving experience. A manual transmission sourced from a Pontiac G6 replaces the factory automatic, while the car’s suspension has been overhauled with BC Racing coilovers. Braking performance is enhanced with Cadillac CTS-V brakes, a highly necessary upgrade considering the power increase.
In the video, we get a sense of demanding nature of this modified Pontiac Grand Prix. With the supercharger and turbocharger working in harmony, acceleration is both rapid and relentless. Managing the torque steer requires careful throttle control, but if done right, the result is exhilarating performance. Its relatively low weight and long wheelbase contribute to stability, even as it delivers impressive straight-line speed.
The reviewer praises the car’s unique charm, calling it a sleeper with “mystique.” In a time when ‘90s cars can often fly under the radar, this Grand Prix GTP bridges the gap between nostalgia and modern-day performance. Check it out for yourself right here:
Comments
My friends mom bought the same bright red car (4 door) in high school. Car really “ripped” for a 1997 sedan. It’s 0-60 times were the same as a Mustang GT! How we survived some “foolish nights” racing around in that thing is still mind boggling!!
I put my 2001 GTP away in a barn in October 2009 with 64km on the clock, just pulled it back out in spring of ’24, then did a full restore. Mine pushes 380hp, and still looks, drives, and even smells like it’s brand new. And yes, ZZP definitely helped the restoration! Contact me if you’d like pics!
Ignition module goes out around 105,000 miles and makes your 3800 v6 series 3 run on 3 cylinders. It’s the plate under the coil packs that the wires plug into. The car runs on durable or slick 50 in the oil 🛢️. Transmission runs on Barr’s transmission repair fluid an lucus automatic transmission Fix the bottles say tightens the bands renews the fluid . It takes around 1000 miles to kick in then your car won’t run as hot and run smoothly and the transmission will shift smoothly and not rough missing gears. That transmission fluid stick always shows full put the stuff in anyway I haven’t had problems doing that.