After the '74 model year, when the GTO was terminated, there was really only one car on the Pontiac lot that grabbed your attention and said "buy me!" That was the Firebird. Before that time, I could see how the choice between a Firebird and a GTO could make your head spin. What do I buy? Which one is the better car? While that is open to great debate, that's not my point. Deciding between two great cars must have been tough, but we haven't had that problem for over thirty years. Pontiac has made our decision clear and easy.
Well now, it's official, the tough decision is back! Pontiac now makes an outstanding line of cars, again. This time next year we will be able to go to a Pontiac dealer and make the tough choice between a G6, Solstice, G8, and G8 ST.
I had the pleasure of driving a G6 for several days and I loved the car by the end of it. I added it to the list because it's an honest car from Pontiac that has the potential to take away buyers of rival cars. I averaged over 20mpg in city driving and over 29 on the highway. It drove smooth and was a fantastic car, aside from the torque steer.
The Solstice has been heating things up for Mazda. It has become a thoroughbred American roadster that has attracted many SCCA racers and people young-at-heart. It's now offered in a coupe form to go along with the convertible roadster. It's an extremely fun car to drive and is highly affordable. It has brisk acceleration and loves to be thrown into the corners.
Muscle is back at Pontiac with the G8. It's quality is even better than the previous GTO's and has made people take a second look at the brand. Pontiac has hit a home run with this car and I'm highly considering buying one. Then the G8 GXP was announced and had me jumping with excitement. A six-speed RWD car with a V8 under the hood, how cool!
For those who seek a more utilitarian use from their vehicle, Pontiac has you covered there, too. The G8 ST has all the great styling and features of the G8 but comes with a flatbed.
With these cars out on every Pontiac dealership by 2009, it's safe to say there will be a lot of people visiting Pontiac dealerships who have never been. Now I have the problem of which one I want to buy next, I never thought I would see this again. I will have to take into consideration everything I need the car for and see what suits me best. I'm leaning toward the Solstice coupe simply because it looks outstanding. The great fuel economy is also another reason for my thoughts. Gas is getting expensive, so it's something to consider.
Have you been taking another look at Pontiac?