When it launched, the Pontiac Solstice GXP with Ecoboost turbo, along with the G8, made for arguably the most interesting Pontiac lineup in decades. In classic GM fashion, that means it was time to kill off the entire brand. This was similar to the Fiero and Cadillac Allante fix-then-kill strategy. Many forget that the Solstice wasn’t the first convertible Pontiac powered by a turbo inline four.
Yes, the lowly Sunbird briefly had a turbo version. Of course, this is a front-wheel drive car with an automatic, so the drive experience pales in comparison to the top-spec Solstice. Still, 165HP in a small car in the late 80s was nothing to sneeze at. I can’t speak to the rigidity of the convertible J-body, but I can guess it wasn’t great.
This one looks to be in amazing shape for what it is. Most cars like this I see on the road have tops falling off and heavily oxidized – usually red – paint. Either the white hides things better or this one’s been pretty well maintained. The seller admits it has some wear, but that’s not alarming for the age. This seems like an honest 117K miles car with a few addressable needs. The question is…who wants it?
Click for eBay ad
El Paso, TX
$305.02 with two bids and reserve not met
Yes, this has a turbo badge, but it’s pretty subtle for 1989.
Automatic is unfortunate – this might has a little more sleeper quality today with a manual. Still, the AT will keep in on boost. Interior is pretty much what you’d expect from an 80s Pontiac, although the lower-level Sunbird was spared the whacky, multi-button steering wheel of the higher-level vehicles. Craptastic, Wal-Mart steering wheel cover probably hides some wear.
The Opel-designed, 2-liter turbo I4 makes 165HP. This was supposedly good for sub-8-second 0-60 times, which wasn’t bad. It wouldn’t tangle with V8 Mustangs, however.
Ad text:
A 1989 Pontiac Sunbird GT Turbo Convertible is offered for sale. Vehicle is in generally good original condition overall with strong running engine and visible wear and tear in certain areas that would come with age. The car has original paint and upholstery with a few minor dings and scratches on the body and two tears on the driver side front seat and convertible top (please see photos). All electric motors, including windows, convertible top and head light covers are in working order. The windows lower and raise rather slowly. Vehicle has new tires and luster of the original wheels have faded with time. The turbo booster has been replaced once or twice by the previous owner. The engine leaves a few drops of oil on the ground after running. Equipped with hard-to-find convertible top boot cover (see photo). Current owner does not use it as a daily driver, taking it out only on occasion. Car registration and state inspection (TX) are current. Contact seller if any questions or for photos of certain areas of the car not already shown. A collectible car and true head-turner when the top is down.