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