North Coast Ohio Chapter 3/12

 When fellow NCPC member Jim Blaha was sixteen years old he worked at a gas station located on what is called the Bedford Automile.  Jim had a clear view of the new Pontiacs being delivered to Jay Pontiac (now Jay Buick GMC).   He was very impressed with the style of the 1977 Grand Prix. 

The ’77 Grand Prix would be the model’s last year on the second generation G-body platform.  The 1977 model received a facelift.  The most significant change was the new grille design.   The vertical bar for ’76 was replaced with 5 thick bars on each side of the nose.  The tail lamps were also updated.  The T-tops that were part of the ’76 anniversary package joined the regular options list for the ’77 Grand Prix.  The ‘snowflake’ aluminum wheel design was added. 

Jim loved the solid design.  It was a quality build vehicle with a blend of luxury and performance.  That year Jim became a zealous Pontiac fan.  He talked his mom into purchasing a Grand Prix.  They enjoyed driving their Grand Prix so much they drove her until she just wouldn’t run any longer. 

In 2004, Jim was ready to purchase a ’77 Poncho of his own.  Luckily he found a White ’77 Grand Prix SJ from North Carolina.  The car was built at the Lakewood, Georgia plant and then shipped to the original owner in N C.   Included with Jim’s discovery were the build sheet, original warranty book, and owner’s manual.  The VIN numbers on both the engine and tranny matched.  Jim knew this car was a great find.

 Impressive features include a 400 cid 4-barrel engine, Turbo 400 Transmission, and the 2.41 rear axle.  The interior boasts black velour bucket seats with the added power driver’s seat, console, and, AM FM radio.  The factory air-conditioning is a welcome addition.  The black padded landau top compliments her style.  Jim had the car repainted Opal Blue Metallic (a 1997 Pontiac color---code # WA305D/24).  He also does all the mechanical work to keep her running smoothly.

Jim enjoys driving his 1977 Grand Prix to local cruise-ins, NCPC car shows, and other area shows.  His Poncho has also participated in Pontiacs on Parade at Tri-power Nationals in Norwalk, Ohio.    Jim is looking forward to this year’s chapter activities especially the Poker Run Rally.   

Jim appreciates his sporty 1977 Grand Prix SJ.  With 82,000 original miles she maintains a great style, incredible performance, and a very comfortable ride.  Happy cruising Jim!

 Chapter members are looking forward to kicking off the season at our annual Dust Off.  This event will be held at Jay Pontiac on Sunday, May 6th.  On May 20th members will also have an opportunity to participate in our 3rd Annual Poker Run Rally.

  For more information on the North Coast Pontiac Chapter of POCI, contact Carolyn Kucia, 127 Willard Avenue, Bedford, OH 44146, or email onecleannut@aol.com , or please check out our web site at http://northcoastpontiacchapter.org & You can also search for North Coast Pontiac Club on Facebook (www.facebook.com/northcoastpontiacclub) .

 Meetings are held the third Wednesday of each month at 7 PM at Jay Pontiac, 18800 Rockside Road, Bedford, OH  If you are in the area, please join us.