Pontiac Grand Ville
The early ’70s were good times for Pontiac Motor Division. During the ’60s, the company re-imagined itself and proved to be a leader in several segments with high annual production. So in the early ’70s, Pontiac entered the luxury car segment by introducing a new top-of-the-line model called Grand Ville in 1971. Even though the Bonneville was selling reasonably well and was considered a wise choice in the luxury field, Pontiac wanted more. Something that would be closer to the Cadillac or Oldsmobile than to the Chevrolet Caprice. Pontiac decided to offer 400 V8 engines as standard and 455 as an optional engine and a high level of equipment (via Hemmings).
For those who wanted something extra, Pontiac offered a leather interior, climate control, heavy-duty suspension, AM/FM radio, and even adjustable brake and accelerator pedals. The Grand Ville was offered as a two- and four-door hardtop and luxury convertible, but the market responded only some of that well and sales figures were low. At the same time, the energy crisis hit the USA, and giant gas guzzlers fell out of favor with most customers.