Pontiac Grand Safari classic cars for sale

Introduction and history of the Pontiac Grand Safari

The Pontiac Grand Safari was introduced in 1971 as the brand's top-of-the-range station wagon, encapsulating the peak of American full-size comfort and road presence. Built through 1978, it was essentially the estate version of the luxurious Bonneville and later Grand Ville, inheriting their upscale interior and exterior trim. The Grand Safari quickly distinguished itself in the North American market thanks to ample dimensions, woodgrain applique on its flanks, rounded styling, and capacity to host eight passengers, suiting families and those needing generous cargo space. Pontiac positioned this model as a lifestyle vehicle, succeeding a long tradition of large, practical and visually dominant American wagons. Its run concluded as manufacturers downsized their line-ups amid new economy and emission standards at the end of the 1970s.

Model history

The Grand Safari succeeded previous full-size Pontiac wagons like the Bonneville Safari, integrating features and trim from Pontiac’s most upmarket passenger cars. Throughout its production, it utilised platform updates and styling revisions shared with the Bonneville and Grand Ville series. After 1978, with a shift in the market towards smaller vehicles, the Grand Safari line was discontinued—there was no direct replacement in Pontiac’s offering, marking the end of the era for large American estate cars from the brand.

Highlights of the Pontiac Grand Safari

The Grand Safari is notable for its size, classic woodgrain paneling, plush interior, and impressive powertrain—a 6.6-litre 400 V8 engine with a smooth automatic gearbox, providing swift acceleration and the kind of effortless highway cruising only possible in this segment. It was typically delivered fully equipped: air conditioning, electric conveniences, a variety of original accessories like 8-track radios, and safety features like an optional child seat. Its official eight-seater configuration made it practical and versatile, while touches like whitewall tyres, wire wheel hubcaps, a roof rack and detailed woody exterior decor set it apart. Very few wagons combined such comfort, utility, and visual flair. Official documents like manuals and old warranty cards often accompany surviving examples, testifying to their well-documented history. Replacement woodgrain vinyls are still available for restoration purposes.

Technical data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Special editions of the Grand Safari are not formally documented, but heavily equipped examples with rare colour combinations, original accessories (such as the optional child seat or factory 8-track radio) and full original documentation are particularly valued among enthusiasts. Unique factory or dealer-fitted features—such as wire wheel covers or period-correct roof racks—often elevate certain examples above others.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Grand Safari’s ample 6.6-litre V8 delivers strong low-end torque, facilitating relaxed acceleration even when fully loaded. The automatic transmission is notable for its nearly imperceptible shifting, paired with soft air suspension for a truly floating ride. Handling prioritises comfort and straight-line stability: body roll is present due to the car’s weight and suspension tuning, but this is consistent with the model's intended cruising character. The car’s performance figures are solid for its day, with enough power for long motorway journeys and brisk overtaking maneuvers, while still offering decent fuel economy for a vehicle of its size and class. Station wagons produced between 1971 and 1978 with the 400ci V8, full air conditioning, and luxury trim represent the high point of the model’s appeal—especially those with rare factory features or original optional extras.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and design

The Grand Safari epitomises 1970s American luxury design in a station wagon. Interior appointments include vast seating for up to eight, plush upholstery, extensive use of woodgrain trim both inside and out, and numerous electric conveniences. Notable features include factory air conditioning, the option of an integrated child seat, an original 8-track radio, and abundant luggage capacity. Externally, the model is defined by its woodgrain applique, whitewall tyres, wire hubcaps, and classic roof rack, which project period-correct status and practicality in equal measure. Most cars feature the exclusive trim and grille of the Bonneville or Grand Ville series, lending an upmarket flair. Restorers can find replacement vinyl panels to keep the woody look period-correct.

Other relevant features

A typical sale often includes comprehensive original documentation: factory handbooks, completed warranty cards, original papers, and a suite of historical invoices. Many examples on the market are equipped with rare extras or accessory packs, such as original roof racks or vinyl stickers to restore the wood effect. The Grand Safari’s size and capacity have ensured its continued popularity for enthusiasts who appreciate classic American wagons as family or show vehicles.

Summary

The Pontiac Grand Safari combines the best of 1970s American automotive luxury with family-friendly capacity and practical station wagon flair. With a focus on comfort, equipment, and that unmistakable woody design, it stands as the definitive large Pontiac wagon—commanding enduring interest in both supply and demand according to Classic Trader’s marketplace statistics. Enthusiasts enjoy its driving experience, period details, and its status as one of the final classic large estate cars built by Pontiac.