staff@slashgear.com (Brad Hill)
2024-05-08 08:15:41
www.slashgear.com
The power output of the 1964 Grand Prix varied depending on the engine and transmission configuration. The base model with a standard transmission produced 306 horsepower. However, buyers could also select a non-standard transmission if they liked. They had the option between the popular Hydra-Matic or the Synchromesh transmissions.
If a buyer opted for a Grand Prix with the Hydra-Matic transmission, it produced 303 horsepower. However, there was a Hydra-Matic model that only had a two-barrel carburetor, limiting its horsepower to 267 at 4,200 rpm. The Synchromesh transmission offered varied performance as well. The 389 engine with a Synchromesh transmission produced either 235 or 255 HP with a low compression ratio of 8.6:1.
As stated, those who wanted better performance from their Grand Prix could have Pontiac’s 421 engine installed, which produced between 350 and 370 horsepower. The high output model of the 421 put out 460 lb-ft of torque, improving the Grand Prix’s acceleration from those with the 389, letting drivers show up to work with speed and style. The 421 engine was the one that won some races in 1961 at the Pomona, California Raceway. So, the 1964 Grand Prix might have looked like your typical commuter car, it was rated to win a race or two if the driver was so inclined.