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Pontiac1988 Pontiac Grand Prix V (W) Dimensions, Size & Specs| Production | |
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| Model Year: | 1988 |
The 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix V (W) represents the fifth generation of the celebrated Grand Prix lineup, characterized primarily as a mid-size sedan designed to combine performance with family-friendly practicality. Produced during the late 1980s, this generation delivered a blend of aerodynamic design and enhanced driving dynamics suited for its class. This 1988 sedan typically spans an approximate length of around 4,830 millimeters (190.2 inches), with a width close to 1,760 millimeters (69.3 inches), and a height near 1,345 millimeters (52.9 inches). These dimensions position it comfortably among mid-size sedans of the era, providing adequate interior space without compromising on exterior maneuverability. The Grand Prix V (W) was engineered to accommodate passengers comfortably while maintaining a sleek profile that reduced drag, contributing to its fuel efficiency and road stability. Inside, its cabin space balanced driver and passenger comfort with enough legroom and headroom typical for this category. Weighing in the range typical for the class, the 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix offered a solid build that contributed to its steady handling and overall ride quality. When compared to competitors in the late 1980s mid-size segment, the Grand Prix stood out with its distinct American styling blended with performance-oriented attributes. This combination made it especially appealing to drivers looking for a sedan that was both practical for daily use and enjoyable on longer trips. Overall, the 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix V (W) sedan remains a notable example of late 20th-century American mid-sized sedans, blending sufficient interior space with a commanding road presence.
Discover the standout features that make the 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix V a leader in its class
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The 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix V (W) sedan features an exterior length of approximately 4880 mm (192.1 inches), a width of around 1790 mm (70.5 inches) without mirrors, and a height of about 1370 mm (53.9 inches). These dimensions provide a balanced profile combining spaciousness with manageable size for a mid-to-large sedan of its era. Its substantial length and width contribute to roomy interior space and a comfortable ride while maintaining a presence that fits well on the road. The height supports a low-slung, aerodynamic design typical of late 1980s American sedans, enhancing its sporty yet upscale look.
The wheelbase of the 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix V (W) is approximately 2770 mm (109.1 inches). The wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear axles and is crucial in determining the vehicle's ride quality and interior space. A longer wheelbase generally offers smoother handling and a more comfortable cabin, especially for rear passengers. In the Grand Prix V, this length strikes a balance between agility and stability, offering a composed ride which was important for a sporty sedan aiming to compete in its class.
With a width of about 1790 mm (70.5 inches), the 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix V (W) offers a comfortable cabin width that allows for spacious seating arrangements for both front and rear passengers. This width ensures enough shoulder room, contributing to passenger comfort on longer trips. Additionally, the broad stance improves road stability, giving the driver confidence during cornering and highway driving. This dimension supports a balance between interior space and the ability to navigate standard road widths and parking areas efficiently.
The 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix V (W) sedan has an approximate curb weight ranging from 1550 kg to 1650 kg (around 3417 to 3638 pounds), depending on the specific trim and optional equipment included. This weight range reflects the robust build typical of American sedans from the late 1980s, offering a solid and stable driving experience. Though heavier than some compact cars, the Grand Prix's weight supports a smooth ride and contributes to handling dynamics suited for a mid-size luxury or performance-oriented sedan.
Yes, the 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix V (W) generally fits into a standard residential garage. Most typical single-car garage bays measure around 2440 mm by 4880 mm (96 inches by 192 inches) or slightly larger, which closely matches the vehicle's length of 4880 mm (192.1 inches) and width of 1790 mm (70.5 inches). This means parking the Grand Prix inside a regular garage is possible but may leave limited clearance space, especially front to back. Homeowners with more generous garage dimensions will find it easier to accommodate the vehicle.
The interior cabin of the 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix V (W) is designed to maximize comfort and utility within its mid-to-large sedan dimensions. With a generous wheelbase of 2770 mm (109.1 inches), the sedan provides ample legroom, especially in the front and rear seats, making it suitable for families or long-distance travel. Although exact passenger volume varies by trim and options, the combination of width and length allows for good shoulder room and headroom for up to five passengers. This level of cabin spaciousness was a positive selling point at the time, balancing luxury with practicality.
Compared to the previous generation Pontiac Grand Prix, the 1988 Grand Prix V (W) saw modest changes in dimensions. The 1988 model generally maintained a similar footprint in terms of overall length and width but adopted a more aerodynamic profile with slightly reduced height, giving it a sleeker appearance. This generation improved interior space efficiency, especially with a longer wheelbase allowing better passenger comfort. The design shift aimed to offer modernized styling and improved driving dynamics while still catering to customers familiar with the Grand Prix's traditional size and road presence.
When compared to contemporaries such as the Chevrolet Celebrity, Buick Regal, and Ford Thunderbird of the late 1980s, the 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix V (W) holds its own with slightly larger length and wheelbase dimensions. While many rivals offered similar width, the Grand Prix often presented a sportier styling and a more aggressive stance due to its aerodynamic lower height and muscular design cues. In terms of passenger space, it was competitive, sometimes offering superior rear legroom due to its longer wheelbase, making it a favored choice among buyers looking for a performance-oriented sedan with comfortable daily usability.
The 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix V (W) typically featured V6 and V8 engine options characteristic of late 1980s American performance sedans. Commonly, it was equipped with a 3.1L V6 or a 5.0L V8, both focused on balancing power with reasonable efficiency for the era. Fuel consumption varied but generally ranged from about 12 to 15 L/100km (approximately 16 to 20 miles per gallon). While less fuel-efficient compared to modern vehicles, the Grand Prix provided strong acceleration and smooth power delivery, designed more for performance and comfort than economy, reflecting the market priorities of the period.
The 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix V (W) combined its sizable 2770 mm (109.1 inches) wheelbase and relatively wide stance with a suspension system tuned for balanced handling and ride comfort. The longer wheelbase enhances ride smoothness by better absorbing road imperfections, while its width adds stability during cornering. The sedan's suspension was typically a MacPherson strut front and a torsion beam or multi-link rear setup depending on the trim, providing a firm but comfortable ride characteristic of sporty sedans from the era. This balance made the Grand Prix responsive yet comfortable for daily commuting and longer trips alike.
