All-new W2 Grand Prix. SE uses the 3.1L V6, GT uses the 195-hp L36 3800 Series II, and GTP launches with the 240-hp supercharged L67 and stronger 4T65-E-family transmission.
Platforms / GM W-Body / W2 / Pontiac Grand Prix
1997–2003 · W2
Pontiac Grand Prix
The W2 Grand Prix put Pontiac’s widest enthusiast target on the new 110.5-inch-wheelbase architecture: aggressive styling, a useful GT model, and a 240-hp supercharged GTP that became one of the signature front-drive GM performance cars of the era.
Model years1997–2003
Body2-door · 4-door
Enthusiast trimsGT · GTP
Top engineL67 3.8 S/C
Wheelbase110.5 in
MODEL-YEAR CHRONOLOGY
How the enthusiast story developed
The GT/GTP formula settles in. Coupe and sedan body styles give the platform unusual flexibility, while GTP aftermarket interest grows around pulley, exhaust, intake and calibration changes.
Styling and equipment updates continue without changing the basic performance hierarchy: GT remains naturally aspirated 3800; GTP remains the supercharged flagship.
Special editions and appearance packages expand, while the core L36/L67 architecture remains the enthusiast draw.
Final year for this Grand Prix body before the 2004 redesign moves the nameplate into the Master Customs W3 chapter.
POWERTRAIN GUIDE
Engines that define this model
| Trim | Engine | Factory output | Enthusiast role | Transmission family |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE | 3.1L / later 3.1 applications | Varies by year | Base-platform donor/context | 4-speed automatic |
| GT | 3.8L L36 3800 Series II | 195–200 hp range | Strong N/A 3800 starting point | 4T65-E family |
| GTP | 3.8L L67 supercharged 3800 Series II | 240 hp / 280 lb-ft | Factory halo and primary performance platform | 4T65-E HD family |
OWNERSHIP & BUILD FOCUS
What matters now
GTP first
If performance is the goal, the GTP is the cleanest factory starting point: L67, stronger transaxle calibration/hardware and the right factory identity.
Heat management
Supercharged builds benefit from thinking about knock control, intercooling strategy, fuel quality and calibration as a system rather than treating pulley size as the entire build plan.
Chassis before power
Hub bearings, brakes, struts, control-arm bushings and steering condition can transform—or undermine—the way an otherwise healthy W2 feels.
Open Grand Prix GTP deep dive →
REFERENCE STANDARD
Master Customs prioritizes factory-era documentation and period road tests, then uses established enthusiast references for service and ownership context. Equipment changed by model year and RPO; verify a specific car by VIN/RPO and factory service information before ordering parts.