2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP Is an American Muscle Roadster
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The Pontiac division has a checkered past when it comes to two-seat sports cars. Sure, the Firebird - opens in new window or tab. and Trans Am - opens in new window or tab. were incredible pony cars. But GM’s strategy put the spotlight on the almighty Corvette - opens in new window or tab.. Thus, the Fiero of the 1980s never quite reached its full potential before being killed off.
On the other hand, The General’s next attempt at a sporty two-seater, the Solstice, made for one heck of a car.
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For one brief shining moment, Pontiac made the Solstice incredible by adding turbocharged power. This 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP recently for sale on eBay gave plenty of thrust to go with the excellent handling roadster chassis. Unfortunately, it was doomed by the shuttering of the Pontiac brand altogether in 2010.
American Style To Rival the Miata
Mazda single-handedly revived the roadster market in 1990 with its Miata. The Japanese lightweight, two-seat sports car didn’t need much power to create smiles. Others attempted to match the Miata, but few could compete on performance and value. The Solstice, as released for the 2006 model year, is probably the closest.
The GXP model, brought to market in 2007, used modern engineering techniques to emulate old-school American muscle with a roadster. The combo of turbocharging and Detroit’s first use of direct fuel injection brought 260hp and 260 pound-feet of torque to the relatively-lightweight runabout.
This was significantly more power than the Miata ever saw—and ensured the Solstice could hold its own between stoplights or in the twisties.
The one significant knock on the Solstice is the lack of cargo room when the top is lowered. After all, much of the soft top ends up in the trunk. A couple of small, soft bags can fit in a pinch if carefully arranged. Otherwise, contemporary reports noted that the Solstice was comfortable and had good ride quality for a small car.
What Could Have Been
This example recently for sale on eBay looks was very well cared for, though the seller notes a few nicks and blemishes. Recent maintenance includes an air conditioning service and new tires. You’ll be ready to hit the road as soon as it hits your driveway. This is an attractively priced car that will deliver driving fun for years.
We almost forgot about the hotrod GXP version of the Solstice. But this car reminds us how much power the wee roadster can make. It’s a genuine rocket ship. One wonders if the Fiero had been continued past the 1988 model year if it would have become this Solstice. And if Pontiac could have continued past 2010, imagine the excitement that would have been produced.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.