1986 Pontiac Bonneville Brougham 5.0 305 carburated

Summary:

Unbeatable reliability and build quality; can't beat a V-8 RWD GM!

Faults:

Rear view mirror detached; used epoxy to put it back on.

Stock stereo was working intermittently, replaced with an aftermarket iPhone compatible unit.

Replaced stock speakers.

Replaced dome light bulb.

General Comments:

What an excellent car! I am very proud to own one of the last GM G-bodys, the last mid sized, V-8, RWD GM sedans.

This is a very sporty car, a real thrill to drive. Same platform as the 80's Monte Carlo, Cutlass Supreme, G-body Malibu, etc.

Rear wheel drive makes for exceptional handling and very easy driving on the highway.

The 5.0 GM 305 engine is one of the best engines ever made in my opinion. I have had this engine in at least 5 cars/trucks I have owned, and never once a single problem. Even with 300-400k on it, these engines never quit and run like new.

This one has only 200k on it, so it purrs like a kitten, gets good fuel economy, and burns clean.

Aftermarket and replacement parts are super cheap and easy to find, but these never need repairs.

I highly recommend getting the Brougham package if possible, as the pillowtop seats, vinyl roof and power options make this a luxury car.

Interior comfort and legroom is great, however I am used to driving full size Crown Victorias and Caprices, so it's hard to compare any car to those.

I have heard that the 200R transmissions some of these cars had were problematic, however mine had an upgrade done to a 700r transmission, which is a great upgrade. Very smooth shifting.

The main issue with all the G-body cars was frame and trunk rust, so if purchasing one, check the rear frame and trunk for rust before anything else. Fortunately I have a garage stored, rust free model.

This is an extremely reliable car, and I have had no problems at all with mine. I highly recommend this car to anyone who wants a reliable, comfortable daily driver, which will soon be a classic collectable.

They don't make them like they used to, and you just cannot beat a V-8 rear wheel drive GM for dependability and low operating costs.

A lot of my friends have much newer Hondas, and I am always the one giving them a drive to the dealership or garage; how ironic is that?

I love this car, and plan to have it for years to come. The styling also gets a lot of compliments, as it has a ton of shiny chrome trim and nice details that make newer cars look bland and cheap.

Anyways, I just cannot say enough good things about this car; buy one if you can find one, you will not regret it!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 23rd October, 2011

1986 Pontiac Bonneville 3.8 V6

Summary:

One great car that I'll own forever

Faults:

Replaced seat covers. New exhaust about 2 years ago.

Brake pads changed twice (because of my teen driver).

General Comments:

I bought this car about a few years ago just as a temporary spare while my other vehicle was in the shop.

The more I drove this car, the more in love I was with "Old Bonnie".

It had a smooth ride. And handled the road great. I drove it everyday for over a year. And when my son needed transportation, I ended up giving it to him. Over a year later and I have it back. Just a few more dents and dings, but running great as ever.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 18th December, 2008

1986 Pontiac Bonneville 3.8 V6

Summary:

Solid and dependable

Faults:

Needs a battery.

Needs shocks.

Needs new electrical wiring.

Needs spark plugs.

General Comments:

The 1986 model of the Bonneville was the last "real" metal body constructions. After that they went to a cheap plastic exterior. So it has held up this 20 years with great endurance. A few little rust spots here and there, but nothing penetrative.

The complete interior of the car is showroom quality. It was only driven 29,000 by an elderly woman who used it for small commutes over the years. So the bench seats and flooring are very comfortable and supportive.

For a long car it steers very quick. without that big boat feeling.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 22nd October, 2006