1969-70 Pontiac Grand
Prix Differences
The 1970 Grand Prix is often mistaken for a 1969 model. Other
times it is lumped together with the 71-72 Grand Prix. As a result,
the 70 GP suffers from an identity crisis. Many people prefer the
body style of the 69 over the 71-72 GP and when they cannot find a 69 GP,
they settle for some other body style not realizing that the 70 GP is 98%
the same as the highly sought after 69 model. Manual transmissions were
still available in 70 and actually continued on to 71. Below I have
listed some of the obvious differences between a 69 GP and a 70 GP.
These differences do not apply to the 71-72, because with these almost
nothing is interchangeable. You 71-72 GP owners, please don't take
offense. The 71-72s are beautiful cars. I just don't know as
much about them.
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Grill - (orientation of and number of slats only)
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Parking Lamps - (70 has side reflector, 69 does not)
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Tail Lenses - (on 70, perimeter is painted grey, 69 is not) and they carry
a different part #
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In 69, the rear side markers are reflectors only. In 70 they are illuminated
with lamps.
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Inside Door Releases
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Console lids are slightly different - 70-72 have push to open tabs...69
does not and key locks are in different locations
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Lettering or Louver on lower portion of front fender
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Lettering or Louver on sail panel
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Optional engine in the 69 was the 428 cu.in./ or the 428 cu.in. HO/390hp
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The 70 offered the high compression 455 cu.in./370hp (only year for high comp. 455)
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Seat upholstery patterns
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1/4 window mounting design with power windows is unique for early 69. Late
69-72 are alike.
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1970 GP had the "J" or "SJ" designation on the trunk lid, 1969 did not.
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1969 GP uses a vacuum powered door locking option, 1970 GP was electric.
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Engine mounts - 69 engines had two mounting holes per side, 70 & up
had five.
