Our Cars–1970 Pontiac Grand Prix 455
Submitted by Michael H. Epstein
Like many of my friends, I lust over the first car I ever owned. In 1970, when I turned 16, I didn’t get my dream car because my parents thought it to be unsafe. I lusted for a 1970 GTO Judge convertible, but instead I received a 1970 Grand Prix (albeit a 455-cubic-inch 4-barrel).
Even with the 455, I thought it was an old man’s car. But now, as I tentatively approach middle age, with my son constantly reminding me what an old man I am, I longed for another flawless optioned-out 1970 Grand Prix.
I searched for two years until I found the right one–a one-owner 39,000-mile 1970 Grand Prix SJ, loaded with rare options including real leather, power everything, and even a wood sport steering wheel. Its one owner was 78, so maybe it actually is an old man’s car!
Right now I’m restoring it, and I’m anxious for it to be finished. It’s due to be finished in about a month. It will stand among my small collection of German and English marques. The pictures here are of the car before the restoration.
Will I drive it? Not much–our 1994 Morgan has 2,200 miles on it. But it will be fun to look at and remind me of my long-lost youth. During that youth, I put 29,000 
miles on my first Grand Prix in the first year until I upgraded to a 1971 Corvette. I remember my father asking, “How the hell can you spend $150 a month on gas?” This, by the way, was when gas was about $0.38 a gallon.
I’m going to cherish this car.
–Michael H. Epstein