The Bonneville was produced from 1957 to 2005 and was another successful car from Pontiac. Like other cars in its lineup, the Bonneville evolved during its production period. It began as a full-size vehicle between 1957 and 1981; then it was marketed as a mid-size from 1982 to 1986, before returning as a full-size car in 1987. As a full-size automobile, it continued to evolve as a reliable family car until it was discontinued in 2005.
The newest generation Pontiac Bonneville houses a standard 3.8 liter V6 engine under its hood, paired together with a four-speed automatic transmission. For drivers who preferred more driving power, a 4.6 liter V8 was offered that provided 275 horsepower and 300 foot-pounds of torque. With this engine, drivers could excel from zero to 60 in only 6.5 seconds; this was also done with an automatic transmission because Pontiac did not provide a manual for this model. The 2005 Bonneville was assembled in Hamtramck, Michigan, for the 2004 and 2005 model years.
The Pontiac Bonneville evolved from a first-generation 1957... View more coupe into a ninth-generation luxury powerhouse in 2005. The earliest models compared with the 1957 Chevys available at that time, but they slowly progressed into family cars that could be seen on television shows such as The Wonder Years". By 1977, the Bonneville had the characteristic rectangular shape seen on cars of this time period, with four square lights in the front and a long trunk in the rear.
The 1990s were an improvement for the Pontiac Bonneville as it received a sleek redesign inside and out. However, the modern redesign came with the ninth generation in 2000 when the exterior was given a sloping front end with revised headlamps, a new grille and low frame. The aggressive new redesign came with Pontiac's new slogan, "Luxury with Attitude". The interior was given new tilt steering, a voice-activated phone, a CD player and power seating.
Consumer Guide credited the Bonneville as being a good, big car with great value, and Edmunds credited it for its solid handling and excellent crash test scores. In 2000, the Pontiac Bonneville was named a Consumer Guide Recommended Buy, and The Car Book commented on its improved handling and comfort that same year. As buyers are always eager to find a good deal on a quality car, AMI Auto World was pleased to announce that they rated the 2004 Bonneville as Best Used Car. View less
