Pontiac Bonneville

Infobox Automobile
name=Pontiac Bonneville


manufacturer=General Motors
production=1957-2005
class=Full-size (1957-1981 & 1987-2005)
Mid-size (1982-86)
successor=Pontiac G8

The Pontiac Bonneville was an automobile built by the Pontiac division of General Motors from 1957 to 2005. It was introduced as a limited production performance convertible during the 1957 model year. The Bonneville (known as the Parisienne in Canada until 1981), and its platform partner, the Grand Ville, are some of the largest Pontiacs ever built; in station wagon body styles they reached just over convert|19|ft|m long, and were also some of the heaviest produced cars at the time (2 and 1/2 tons, or convert|5000|lb|abbr=on).

Early development - 1954-58

The Bonneville name first appeared in 1954 on a pair of bubble-topped GM Motorama concept cars called the Bonneville Special. It entered the production lineup as a high-performance, fuel-injected luxury convertible in the 1957 model year and was loaded with every conceivable option as standard equipment with the exception of optional air conditioning. This put the Bonneville in a Cadillac-like price range of $5,000 - more than double the base price of a Chieftain four-door sedan. A fully equipped Bonneville could cost more than a Cadillac. Only 630 units were produced that first year, making it one of the most collectible Pontiacs of all time. The Bonneville endured until 2005 as the division's top-of-the-line model. The name was taken from the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, the site of much early auto racing and most of the world's land speed record runs.

The Bonneville added a coupe in 1958, and it paced the Indianapolis 500 that year. This year's Bonneville had a significantly lower price tag of around $3,000 thanks to the demotion of most of the luxury items found on the '57 model from standard equipment to the option list. Also a convert|300|hp|abbr=off convert|370|CID|abbr=off V8 with four-barrel carburetor and dual exhausts was now standard equipment. The fuel-injection system offered with the standard engine on the '57 model was now listed as an extra cost option but very few '58 Bonnevilles were so equipped due to a towering price tag of over $500 USD, which was not considered a very good value considering that for less than $100 USD, a Tri-Power option was available with three two-barrel carburetors and even more power.

1959-1970

Infobox Automobile generation


name = First generation
aka = Pontiac Parisienne (Canada)
production = 1958-1961
assembly = Lake Orion, Michigan
Pontiac, Michigan
Flint, Michigan
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Wentzville, Missouri
body_style = 2-door convertible
2-door coupe
4-door sedan
4-door station wagon
layout = FR layoutInfobox Automobile generation


name = Second generation
aka = Pontiac Parisienne (Canada)
production = 1962-1964
assembly = Lake Orion, Michigan
Pontiac, Michigan
Flint, Michigan
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Wentzville, Missouri
body_style = 2-door convertible
2-door coupe
4-door sedan
4-door station wagon
layout = FR layout
platform = B-body
engine = Auto CID|389 V8
Auto CID|421 V8
Auto CID|400 V8
related = Buick LeSabre
Chevrolet Impala
Pontiac Catalina/Laurentian
Chevrolet Bel AirInfobox Automobile generation


name = Third generation
aka = Pontiac Parisienne (Canada)
production = 1965-1970
assembly = Lake Orion, Michigan
Pontiac, Michigan
Flint, Michigan
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Wentzville, Missouri
body_style = 2-door convertible
2-door coupe
4-door sedan
4-door station wagon
layout = FR layout
platform = B-body
engine = Auto CID|389 V8
Auto CID|421 V8
Auto CID|400 V8
Auto CID|428 V8
Auto CID|455 V8
related = Buick LeSabre
Chevrolet Impala
Pontiac Catalina/Laurentian
Chevrolet Bel Air
Chevrolet Caprice

In its third year, the 1959 Bonneville became a full top-line series with the addition of the four-door hardtop sedan and Safari station wagon body styles. The Bonneville played an important part that year in the introduction of two of Pontiac's greatest marketing inspirations — the split grille and the Wide Track slogan. The latter was not just ad copy, either, as Pontiac pushed its wheels further out toward the fenders than anyone else and created what were considered to be the best-cornering full-size cars in the industry. Both the grille design and the Wide Track phrase are still part of Pontiac's image today. The Bonneville remained as Pontiac's costliest and most luxurious model throughout the 1960s and was instrumental in pushing Pontiac to third place in sales from 1962 to 1970.

The Bonneville differed from their lesser Catalina and Star Chief counterparts by featuring more luxurious interior trims with upgraded cloth and Morrokide vinyl or expanded Morrokide upholstery in sedans and coupes, expanded Morrokide in Safari wagons or genuine leather seating in convertibles. Also found in Bonnevilles were instrument panels and door panels with walnut veneer trim, carpeted lower door panels, grab bar on passenger side of dash and courtesy lights and rear arm rest. Beginning in 1964, a Bonneville Brougham option package was available that included even more luxurious interior trims with front and rear seats featuring center armrests, upgraded door panels and a standard Cordova (vinyl) roof with "Brougham" nameplates.

Bonneville models were standard equipped with Hydra-Matic (through 1964) or Turbo Hydra-Matic (1965-on) automatic transmissions. Other options included power steering and power brakes as well as air conditioning. Other popular options included power windows, power seats, radio, cruise control, 8-lug aluminum wheels that included integral brake drums for improved stopping power. The Bonneville also had more powerful standard V8 engines than lesser full-sized Pontiacs including the 389 or 400 cubic inch V8s with four-barrel carburetors (power ratings of 303 to Convert|340|hp|kW|0|abbr=on depending on year) with many optional V8 offerings available including Tri Power (three two-barrel carburetion) options on both the 389 and 421 cubic inch V8s that offered up to convert|376|hp through 1966.

Pontiac full-size performance reached its peak in 1966. All full-size models got new sheetmetal for 1963, including stacked headlights. Performance enthusiasts once again turned to the Catalina, the lightest of the Pontiac full-size coupes. The standard engine was a Auto CID|389 V8 with convert|283|bhp|abbr=on. Next up were two Auto CID|421 V8s with 10.75:1 compression ratios: a four barrel making convert|353|bhp|abbr=on and the Trophy 421 HO (High Output) with triple Rochester two-barrel carburetors operated by a progressive throttle linkage, rated at convert|370|bhp|abbr=on. For serious drag strip use, buyers could specify the Super Duty 421 which came in three states of tune which all benefited from an increase in the compression ratio from 11.0:1 to 12.0:1 and an increase in the maximum shift point from 5900 rpm to a screaming 6400 rpm. Straight-line ETs ruled the showrooms during the Musclecar era and the early Pontiacs had impressive numbers.

A General Motors corporate edict that took effect with the 1967 model year led Pontiac to discontinue the Tri Power engine options on all of its cars. That year also brought a larger auto CID|400 V8 as the standard engine for Bonneville and other full-sized Pontiacs to replace the previous 389, while the auto CID|421 V8 was replaced by a new auto CID|428 engine that offered as much as convert|390|hp. For 1969, a convert|360|hp|abbr=on 428 became the standard Bonneville engine, which in turn was replaced for 1970 by an even larger auto CID|455 V8 rated at convert|370|hp|abbr=on.

1971-1976

Infobox Automobile generation
name = Fourth generation
aka = Pontiac Parisienne (Canada)
production = 1971-1976
assembly = Lake Orion, Michigan
Pontiac, Michigan
Flint, Michigan
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Wentzville, Missouri
body_style = 4-door hardtop
2-door coupe
4-door sedan
layout = FR layout
platform = B-body
engine = Auto CID|455 V8
Auto CID|400 V8
related = Buick LeSabre
Chevrolet Impala
Pontiac Catalina/Laurentian
Chevrolet Bel Air
Chevrolet Caprice
Oldsmobile 88

From 1971 to 1975, the Bonneville was de-emphasized somewhat as Pontiac used the Grand Ville name for its highest-price model. During these years, the Bonneville dropped to mid-line status between the lower-priced Catalina and the Grand Ville. During these years, the Bonneville was offered in three bodystyles including the pillared four-door sedan, four-door hardtop sedan and two-door hardtop coupe. The standard engine for 1971-72 was a 455 cubic-inch V8 with two-barrel carburetor that was rated at 280 gross horsepower for 1971 and 185 net horsepower for 1972 and optionally available was the four-barrel version of the 455 rated at 325 gross horsepower in 1971 and 250 net horsepower in 1972. (the on-paper power ratings of both years reflect the changes in power measurement between those two years as was common throughout the auto industry at the time). The year 1971 was also the first for Pontiac and other GM divisions to reduce compression ratios on all engines across the board in order to enable use of lower-octane regular leaded, low-lead or unleaded gasoline thanks to a corporate edict in preparation for the introduction of catalytic converters in 1975 to help meet increasing stringent federal (and California) emission requirements.

In mid-1971, a Turbo-Hydramatic transmission, power steering and power front-disc brakes became standard equipment on Bonneville and other full-sized Pontiacs (as well as other full-sized GM cars).

From 1973 to 1976, the Bonneville's standard engine dropped to a 170-horsepower 400 cubic-inch V8. Optionally available was the 455 four-barrel V8 rated at convert|250|hp for 1973-74 and 200 for 1975-76. In 1973, Bonneville was the only full-sized Pontiac to offer a "Radial Tuned Suspension" option package which included the steel-belted radial tires along with an upgraded suspension with Pliacell shock absorbers and front and rear sway bars. The RTS option was expanded for 1974 to all full-sized Pontiacs and radial-ply tires became standard on all 1975 models though an upgraded "RTS" package was still available as an option.

With the demise of the Grand Ville series after 1975, Bonneville once again emerged as the top-line full-sized Pontiac series for 1976 with the Bonneville Brougham models featuring the same luxurious interior appointments as the departed Grand Ville.

1977-1981

Infobox Automobile generation


name = Fifth generation
production = 1977-1981
aka = Pontiac Parisienne (Canada)
body_style = 2-door coupe
4-door sedan
4-door station wagon
layout = FR layout
assembly = Lake Orion, Michigan
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Wentzville, Missouri
platform = B-body
engine = Auto CID|231 Buick V6
Auto CID|265 Pontiac V8
Auto CID|301 Pontiac V8
Auto CID|350 Pontiac V8
Auto CID|350Oldsmobile diesel V8
Auto CID|400 Pontiac V8
related = Buick LeSabre
Chevrolet Impala
Pontiac Catalina/Laurentian
Chevrolet Bel Air
Chevrolet Caprice
Oldsmobile 88
wheelbase = Auto in|116.0|0

Bonneville would continue its flagship duties on the downsized big car line that was introduced for 1977. The downsized Bonnevilles (and Catalinas) were about a foot shorter in length and reduced in weight by some 800 pounds compared to their 1976 counterparts but maintained the same interior roominess and trunk space with much-improved fuel economy - a major selling point in the years following the 1973-74 energy crisis.

With the downsized 1977 models, only a pillared four-door sedan and two-door coupe (with optional opera windows) were offered as the hardtop sedans and coupes offered in previous years were discontinued across the board at all GM divisions. The Bonneville also regained the Safari station wagon as part of its model lineup for the first time since 1970 with woodgrained exterior trim and interior appointments shared with Bonneville coupes and sedans. The Safari was available in both 6- and 9-passenger configurations and featured a dual-action tailgate that could be opened to the side as a door or downward as a tailgate, rather than the disappearing clamshell tailgates found in 1971-76 full-sized Pontiac wagons.

The standard engine for Bonneville was Pontiac's new 301 cubic-inch V8 rated at convert|135|hp and optional engines included a 170-horsepower 350 or 185-horsepower 400 cubic-inch V8. In later years, increasingly stringent fuel-economy standards mandated by the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) regulations would lead to the discontinuation of the larger engines with a 231 cubic-inch Buick V6 becoming the standard engine on Bonneville coupes and sedans for 1980 and 1981 with the only optional V8s offered including 265 and 301 cubic-inch Pontiac-built gasoline engines or an Oldsmobile-built 350 cubic-inch Diesel powerplant.

The Bonneville/Bonneville Brougham models were discontinued after the 1981 model year along with the lower-priced Catalina due to sagging sales resulting from the second energy crisis of 1979-80 which sent many new car buyers to more fuel-efficient four-cylinder or V6-powered compact cars. The discontinuation of the American-built, rear-drive full-sized Pontiac also coincided with the demise of Pontiac-built V8 engines, which were last built in 1981. From 1982 onward, all V8-powered Pontiacs were powered by engines sourced from other GM divisions such as Chevrolet or Oldsmobile.

1982-1986

Infobox Automobile generation


name = Sixth generation
production = 1982-1986
assembly = Sainte-Thérèse, Quebec
body_style = 4-door sedan
4-door station wagon
layout = FR layout
platform = G-body
engine = Auto Lrev|231 Buick V6
Auto L|2.8 Chevrolet 60° V6 engine
Auto L|4.3 Chevrolet V6 (EFI)
Auto Lrev|305 Chevrolet V8
Auto Lrev|350Oldsmobile diesel V8
transmission = 3-speed THM200 automatic
4-speed 200-4R automatic
wheelbase = Auto in|108.0|0

In 1982, Pontiac abruptly moved the Bonneville nameplate from a full-size car to a mid-size car previously known as the Pontiac LeMans in both four-door sedan and Safari station wagon body styles with engine choices including a standard Buick 231 cubic-inch V6 or optional Chevrolet 305 cubic-inch V8 or Oldsmobile 350 cubic-inch Diesel V8. The 1982 model was officially known as the "Bonneville Model G", after the platform on which it was based. The wagon was dropped after 1983 in favor of the front-drive Pontiac 6000 wagon introduced for 1984. The Bonneville sedan continued in both base and Brougham versions through 1986.

Pontiac customers did not take to the change as the "downsized" Bonneville arrived just as many new-car buyers were switching their preferences from compact economy cars to full-sized, V8-powered cars, as noted by increasing big cars from Pontiac's competitors such as the Chevrolet Caprice, Oldsmobile 88, Buick LeSabre and Mercury Grand Marquis. Late in the 1983 model year, Pontiac reintroduced a full-sized car to the American market by bringing over the Canadian-built Pontiac Parisienne (which was essentially a restyled Chevrolet Caprice and powered by Chevrolet V6 or V8 engines). The Bonneville was then again one notch below the top of the line from late 1983 through 1986.

However, exactly as before, a downsizing proved its salvation. In 1987, the Parisienne was discontinued and the Bonneville was completely redesigned as a front-wheel drive car, rejoining its pre-1982 platform mates the Buick LeSabre and Oldsmobile 88 and regaining its status as the senior Pontiac. The Bonneville "SE" was on "Car and Driver" magazine's Ten Best list that year.

1987-1991

Infobox Automobile generation


name = Seventh generation
production = 1987-1991
body_style = 4-door sedan
assembly = Ypsilanti, MI 1987-1989 (early)
Wentzville, MO 1989 (late)-1991
layout = FF layout
platform = H-body
engine = 3.8L LG3 Buick V6Collapsible list
title = Specifications
frame_style = border:none; padding: 0;
title_style =
list_style = text-align:left;display:none;
1 =Years Used: 1987-1988
2 =nowrap| •Family: GM Buick 90° V6
3 =nowrap| •RPO/VIN: LG3/3
4 =nowrap| •Displacement: convert|3791|cc|cid|0|abbr=on
5 =nowrap| •Stroke: convert|3.40|in|mm|0|abbr=on
6 =nowrap| •Bore: convert|3.80|in|mm|0|abbr=on
7 =nowrap| •Power: convert|150|hp|kW|0|abbr=on @ 4400 RPM
8 =nowrap| •Torque: convert|210|lbft|Nm|0|abbr=on @ 2200 RPM
9 =nowrap| •Fuel Type: Gasoline
10 =nowrap| •Fuel System:SFI
11 =nowrap| •Configuration: 12V/OHV
12 =nowrap| •Compression: 8.5:1
13 =nowrap| •Aspiration: Normal3.8L LN3 3800 Buick V6Collapsible list
title = Specifications
frame_style = border:none; padding: 0;
title_style =
list_style = text-align:left;display:none;
1 =Years Used: 1988-1991
2 =nowrap| •Family: GM Buick 90° V6
3 =nowrap| •Model: 3800
4 =nowrap| •RPO/VIN: LN3/C
5 = nowrap| •Displacement: convert|3791|cc|cid|0|abbr=on
6 = nowrap| •Stroke: convert|3.40|in|mm|0|abbr=on
7 = nowrap| •Bore: convert|3.80|in|mm|0|abbr=on
8 =nowrap| •Power: convert|165|hp|kW|0|abbr=on @ 4400 RPM
9 =nowrap| •Torque: convert|220|lbft|Nm|0|abbr=on @ 2800 RPM
10 =nowrap| •Fuel Type: Gasoline
11 =nowrap| •Fuel System:MPFI
12 =nowrap| •Configuration: 12V/OHV
13 =nowrap| •Compression: 8.5:1
14 =nowrap| •Aspiration: Normal

transmission = 4-speed THM440T4 automatic
final_gear_ratio = 2.84:1
2.97:1
3.33:1
wheelbase = Auto in|110.8|0
length = Auto in|198.7|0
1987-89 SE: Auto in|198.3|0
1990-91 SSE: Auto in|198.6|0
width = 1987-89: Auto in|72.4|0
1990-91: Auto in|72.1|0
height = 1987-89 LE & SE: Auto in|55.5|0
1987-89 SSE: Auto in|54.7|0
1990-91 LE & SE: Auto in|54.1|0
1990-91 SSE: Auto in|54.6|0
front_track = 60.3 in
rear_track = 59.8 in
weight = LE convert|3275-3325|lb|abbr=on
SE convert|3327-3413|lb|abbr=on
SSE convert|3481-3601|lb|abbr=on
related = Buick LeSabre
Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight
fuel_capacity = convert|18|U.S.gal|L impgal|abbr=on|lk=on

For 1987, Pontiac introduced a radically different Bonneville. Instead of using traditional rear-wheel-drive, the new Bonneville used a more economical front-wheel-drive platform. It joined the two-year-old H Body platform with the Buick LeSabre and Oldsmobile Eighty-Eight. Initially, a 150-hp 3.8L V6 was the sole engine, mated to a 4 speed Hydramatic 4T60 automatic. The new Bonneville was placed on Car & Driver's 10 Best list for 1987, offering both a base model and LE model. For LE models, an SE sport package was also available that featured a quicker gear ratio, sportier suspension and more standard features.

1988

A host of trim level changes and a new engine became standard for the front wheel drive Bonneville's second year. First, a revised version of the LG3 was introduced. Renamed the LN3, it was the first use of the "3800" name. Featuring sequential-port fuel injection, the LN3 produced convert|165|hp|kW|0|abbr=on and Auto lbft|210. Also new for 1988, the base model is dropped making LE the base model. Two new models are added, the midlevel SE (went from option package to trim) and line-topper SSE. The latter features an extra deep rear valence, lower body cladding, a digital compass/trip computer, an eight speaker premium sound system and much more.

For 1989, a compact-disc player became optional and in 1990 a remote keyless entry system was added to the options list for all models. Suspension changes greeted the 1991 model year, also the last for the first front-wheel-drive generation of the Bonneville

1992-1999

Infobox Automobile generation


name = Eighth generation
production = 1992-1999
body_style = 4-door sedan
platform = H-body
engine = 92-94 3.8L Series I L27 V6
92-93 3.8L SC Series I L67 V6
94-95 3.8L SC Series I L67 V6
95-99 3.8L Series II L36 V6
96-99 3.8L SC Series II L67 V6

engine = 3.8L Series I L27 V6Collapsible list
title = Specifications
frame_style = border:none; padding: 0;
title_style =
list_style = text-align:left;display:none;
1 =Years Used: 1992-1994
2 =nowrap| •Family: GM Buick 90° V6
3 =nowrap| •Model: Series I 3800
4 =nowrap| •RPO/VIN: L27/L
5 =nowrap| •Displacement: convert|3791|cc|cid|0|abbr=on
6 =nowrap| •Stroke: convert|3.40|in|mm|0|abbr=on
7 =nowrap| •Bore: convert|3.80|in|mm|0|abbr=on
8 =nowrap| •Power: convert|170|hp|kW|0|abbr=on @ 4800 RPM
9 =nowrap| •Torque: convert|225|lbft|Nm|0|abbr=on @ 3200 RPM
10 =nowrap| •Fuel Type: Gasoline
11 =nowrap| •Fuel System:SEFI
12 =nowrap| •Configuration: 12V/OHV
13 =nowrap| •Compression: 9.0:1
14 =nowrap| •Aspiration: Normal

3.8L Series I L67 V6Collapsible list
title = Specifications
frame_style = border:none; padding: 0;
title_style =
list_style = text-align:left;display:none;
1 =Years Used: 1992-1993
2 =nowrap| •Family: GM Buick 90° V6
3 =nowrap| •Model: Series I Supercharged 3800
4 =nowrap| •RPO/VIN: L67/1
5 =nowrap| •Displacement: convert|3791|cc|cid|0|abbr=on
6 =nowrap| •Stroke: convert|3.40|in|mm|0|abbr=on
7 =nowrap| •Bore: convert|3.80|in|mm|0|abbr=on
8 =nowrap| •Power: convert|205|hp|kW|0|abbr=on @ 4400 RPM
9 =nowrap| •Torque: convert|260|lbft|Nm|0|abbr=on @ 2600 RPM
10 =nowrap| •Fuel Type: Gasoline
11 =nowrap| •Fuel System:SEFI
12 =nowrap| •Configuration: 12V/OHV
13 =nowrap| •Compression: 8.0:1
14 =nowrap| •Aspiration: Supercharged

3.8L Series I L67 V6Collapsible list
title = Specifications
frame_style = border:none; padding: 0;
title_style =
list_style = text-align:left;display:none;
1 =Years Used: 1994-1995
2 =nowrap| •Family: GM Buick 90° V6
3 =nowrap| •Model: Series I Supercharged 3800
4 =nowrap| •RPO/VIN: L67/1
5 =nowrap| •Displacement: convert|3791|cc|cid|0|abbr=on
6 =nowrap| •Stroke: convert|3.40|in|mm|0|abbr=on
7 =nowrap| •Bore: convert|3.80|in|mm|0|abbr=on
8 =nowrap| •Power: convert|225|hp|kW|0|abbr=on @ 5000 RPM
9 =nowrap| •Torque: convert|275|lbft|Nm|0|abbr=on @ 3200 RPM
10 =nowrap| •Fuel Type: Gasoline
11 =nowrap| •Fuel System:SEFI
12 =nowrap| •Configuration: 12V/OHV
13 =nowrap| •Compression: 8.0:1
14 =nowrap| •Aspiration: Supercharged

3.8L Series II L36 V6Collapsible list
title = Specifications
frame_style = border:none; padding: 0;
title_style =
list_style = text-align:left;display:none;
1 =Years Used: 1995-1999
2 =nowrap| •Family: GM Buick 90° V6
3 =nowrap| •Model: Series II 3800
4 =nowrap| •RPO/VIN: L36/K
5 = nowrap| •Displacement: convert|3791|cc|cid|0|abbr=on
6 = nowrap| •Stroke: convert|3.40|in|mm|0|abbr=on
7 = nowrap| •Bore: convert|3.80|in|mm|0|abbr=on
8 =nowrap| •Power: convert|205|hp|kW|0|abbr=on @ 5200 RPM
9 =nowrap| •Torque: convert|230|lbft|Nm|0|abbr=on @ 4000 RPM
10 =nowrap| •Fuel Type: Gasoline
11 =nowrap| •Fuel System:SEFI
12 =nowrap| •Configuration: 12V/OHV
13 =nowrap| •Compression: 9.4:1
14 =nowrap| •Aspiration: Normal

3.8L Series II L67 V6Collapsible list
title = Specifications
frame_style = border:none; padding: 0;
title_style =
list_style = text-align:left;display:none;
1 =Years Used: 1996-1999
2 =nowrap| •Family: GM Buick 90° V6
3 =nowrap| •Model: Series II Supercharged 3800
4 =nowrap| •RPO/VIN: L67/1
5 = nowrap| •Displacement: convert|3791|cc|cid|0|abbr=on
6 = nowrap| •Stroke: convert|3.40|in|mm|0|abbr=on
7 = nowrap| •Bore: convert|3.80|in|mm|0|abbr=on
8 =nowrap| •Power: convert|240|hp|kW|0|abbr=on @ 5200 RPM
9 =nowrap| •Torque: convert|280|lbft|Nm|0|abbr=on @ 3600 RPM
10 =nowrap| •Fuel Type: Gasoline
11 =nowrap| •Fuel System:SEFI
12 =nowrap| •Configuration: 12V/OHV
13 =nowrap| •Compression: 8.0:1
14 =nowrap| •Aspiration: Supercharged

transmission = 1992-97: 4-speed 4T60-E automatic
1992-96: 4-speed 4T60E-HD auto
1998-99: 4-speed 4T65-E automatic
1997-99: 4-speed 4T65E-HD automatic
curb_weight = 3446-3588 lb
wheelbase = Auto in|110.8|0
length = 1992-95 SE: Auto in|199.5|0
1992-95 SSE & 1992-93 SSEi: Auto in|201.1|0
1996-97 SE: Auto in|201.7|0
1996-99 SSE: Auto in|203.1|0
1998-99 SE: Auto in|202.0|0
width = 1992-97: Auto in|74.5|0
1998-99: Auto in|74.4|0
height = Auto in|55.7|0
1998-99 SSE: Auto in|56.0|0
front_track = 60.4 in-60.8 in
rear_track = 60.3 in-60.9 in
layout = FF layout
related = Buick LeSabre
Oldsmobile 88
Oldsmobile LSS
assembly = Wentzville, MO 1992-1993
Lake Orion, MI 1994-1995
Flint, Michigan 1996-1999
fuel_capacity = convert|18|U.S.gal|L impgal|abbr=on|lk=on

In 1992 the exterior and interior of the car was completely redesigned, this was a generation that hosted quite a few Bonneville firsts, the car not only became quicker, but it also became a lot safer. One of the most notable improvements over the previous generation was that the Bonneville SE now came standard with a driver airbag, optional ABS brakes (with sport appearance package), the SSE models came with standard ABS, standard traction control, The trims were redone once again, the LE trim was removed, the SE was now the base model, the SSE was now the mid grade and a new top of the line trim was now added, the SSEi. It should be noted, according to GM's Pontiac division, these trim acronyms have no implied meaning. The new N/A 3800 Series I (RPO: L27) engine was used, producing Convert|170|hp|kW|0|abbr=on and Auto lbft|225, as well as the newly designed force inducted Series I 3800 (RPO: L67) equipped with an Eaton M62 roots type supercharger which made Convert|205|hp|kW|0|abbr=on and auto lbft|260. The newly revised N/A L27, for the 1992 model year only, was not equipped with an EGR Valve, which can reduce performance, decrease fuel economy and raise combustion temperatures, which tends to cause burnt valves down the road. In 1993, the EGR returned to the naturally aspirated L27.

Abridged Safety Option List:For 1993 the Sport Luxury Edition (SLE RPO: H4U) was offered. This is basically an SE sub-trim with more standard options such as leather seats, electronic climate control and premium sound. This option package designation remained only on the RPO sticker until 1998, when SLE badges were added to the exterior of the vehicle. This continued onto the '99 model year. Many more standard options were available with the SSE. The SSEi came standard with most of the available options in the lower models, including the Supercharged 3800 (RPO: L67).

In 1994, A new Generation III Eaton M62 supercharger came, along with new OBD-1.5 capabilities, raising the horsepower to Convert|225|hp|abbr=on, torque was raised to auto lbft|275. Also this year introduced the new 5 spoke "Torque Star" rims. A resonator also became standard on the exhaust to lower the raspy tone that the engine produces. Airbags also became standard on all models this year.

In 1995 the car stayed the same appearance wise, but the SE and SSE trims received a new naturally aspirated engine, the Series II (RPO: L36). This engine made Convert|205|hp|abbr=on and auto lbft|230. The SSEi remained equipped with the Series I SC 3800 (RPO: L67) engine until the 1996 model year, when it too was updated.

In March 2008, GM announced that these engines and other GM engines supplied with Dexcool antifreeze coolant might be prone to intake manifold failure and other problems with the cooling system if proper regular maintenance is not correctly performed. After settlement of a class-action lawsuit, GM agreed to compensate owners of many vehicles that suffered damage, regardless of negligence on the part of the consumer, if the consumer can prove damages.

1996-1999

In 1996 the exterior of the vehicle had undergone design changes. Some things were subtly reshaped, and other things, such as the tail lights, headlights, grille, and lower body cladding were drastically changed. The gap narrowed quite a bit regarding the exterior trim between packages. The previous generation showed an entirely different style of cladding and rear lighting for the SSE and SSEi, while this generation, at first glance, remains the same between the trims, with of course, the exception of the unique front bumper and grille. Also for 1996, the supercharged version of the 3800 Series II engine was introduced for the Bonneville. The SSEi and optionally the SSE got a new supercharged L67, producing Convert|240|hp|kW|0|abbr=on and auto lbft|280. This engine was used from 1996 until it was retired from the Bonneville in 2003.

A new transmission, the 4T65-E was introduced in 1998 for the naturally aspirated 3800 installed in SE and SSE models, and the heavy-duty version, otherwise known as the 4T65E-HD was introduced in 1997 for the supercharged 3800 installed in the SSEi models.

2000-2005

Infobox Automobile generation


name = Ninth generation
production = 2000-2005
body_style = 4-door sedan
layout = FF layout
platform = H-body
engine = 3.8L Series II L36 V6Collapsible list
title = Specifications
frame_style = border:none; padding: 0;
title_style =
list_style = text-align:left;display:none;
1 =Years Used: 2000-2005
2 =nowrap| •Family: GM Buick 90° V6
3 =nowrap| •Model: Series I 3800
4 =nowrap| •RPO/VIN: L36/K
5 =nowrap| •Displacement: convert|3791|cc|cid|0|abbr=on
6 =nowrap| •Stroke: convert|3.40|in|mm|0|abbr=on
7 =nowrap| •Bore: convert|3.80|in|mm|0|abbr=on
8 =nowrap| •Power: convert|205|hp|kW|0|abbr=on @ 5200 RPM
9 =nowrap| •Torque: convert|230|lbft|Nm|0|abbr=on @ 4000 RPM
10 =nowrap| •Fuel Type: Gasoline
11 =nowrap| •Fuel System:SEFI
12 =nowrap| •Configuration: 12V/OHV
13 =nowrap| •Compression: 9.4:1
14 =nowrap| •Aspiration: Normal

3.8L Series II L67 V6Collapsible list
title = Specifications
frame_style = border:none; padding: 0;
title_style =
list_style = text-align:left;display:none;
1 =Years Used: 2000-2003
2 =nowrap| •Family: GM Buick 90° V6
3 =nowrap| •Model: Series II Supercharged 3800
4 =nowrap| •RPO/VIN: L67/1
5 =nowrap| •Displacement: convert|3791|cc|cid|0|abbr=on
6 =nowrap| •Stroke: convert|3.40|in|mm|0|abbr=on
7 =nowrap| •Bore: convert|3.80|in|mm|0|abbr=on
8 =nowrap| •Power: convert|240|hp|kW|0|abbr=on @ 5000 RPM
9 =nowrap| •Torque: convert|280|lbft|Nm|0|abbr=on @ 3200 RPM
10 =nowrap| •Fuel Type: Gasoline
11 =nowrap| •Fuel System:SEFI
12 =nowrap| •Configuration: 12V/OHV
13 =nowrap| •Compression: 8.0:1
14 =nowrap| •Aspiration: Supercharged

4.6L LD8 Cadillac V8Collapsible list
title = Specifications
frame_style = border:none; padding: 0;
title_style =
list_style = text-align:left;display:none;
1 =Years Used: 2004-2005
2 =nowrap| •Family: GM Premium 90° V8
3 =nowrap| •Model: Cadillac Northstar
4 =nowrap| •RPO/VIN: LD8/Y
5 =nowrap| •Displacement: convert|4570|cc|cid|0|abbr=on
6 =nowrap| •Stroke: convert|3.31|in|mm|0|abbr=on
7 =nowrap| •Bore: convert|3.66|in|mm|0|abbr=on
8 =nowrap| •Power: convert|275|hp|kW|0|abbr=on @ 5600 RPM
9 =nowrap| •Torque: convert|300|lbft|Nm|0|abbr=on @ 4000 RPM
10 =nowrap| •Fuel Type: Gasoline
11 =nowrap| •Fuel System:SEFI
12 =nowrap| •Configuration: 32V/DOHC
13 =nowrap| •Compression: 10.0:1
14 =nowrap| •Aspiration: Normal

transmission = 4-speed 4T65-E automatic
4-speed 4T65E-HD automatic
4-speed 4T80-E automatic
wheelbase = Auto in|112.2|0
length = 2000-01 SE: Auto in|202.5|0
2000-01 SLE & SSEi: Auto in|203.2|0
2002-05: Auto in|202.6|0
width = Auto in|74.2|0
height = 2000-01 SE: Auto in|56.0|0
2000-01 SLE & SSEi: Auto in|56.4|0
2002-05: Auto in|56.6|0
front_track = convert|62.6|in|mm|0|abbr=on
rear_track = convert|62.1|in|mm|0|abbr=on
weight = convert|3596|lb|abbr=on (SE)
convert|3656|lb|abbr=on (SLE)
convert|3745|lb|abbr=on (SSEi)
related = Oldsmobile Aurora
Buick LeSabre
assembly = Lake Orion, MI 2000-2003
Hamtramck, MI 2004-2005
fuel_capacity = convert|18.5|U.S.gal|L impgal|abbr=on|lk=onCompletely redesigned from the ground up with significant advancements in design. Remained on the H-platform.

Interestingly, the Bonneville regained a V8 option on the GXP trim for 2004, its first since 1986, as a result of the discontinuation of the Oldsmobile Aurora. This opened up a "hole" in the GM lineup between Pontiac and Buick, allowing Pontiac to expand upmarket somewhat. The engine is Cadillac's Auto L|4.6 Northstar V8, producing Convert|275|hp|kW|0|abbr=on, Auto lbft|300 and giving 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds.

For the last year of production, Pontiac gave the mid-level SLE the new GXP styling. The 2005 SLE featured all GXP styling cues, except the wheels, badging, and muffler tips all remained unique to the GXP.

GM announced on February 8, 2005 that the Bonneville would be dropped from Pontiac's lineup for 2006. The last Bonneville left the assembly line on May 27, 2005. Only about 12,000 Bonnevilles were sold in 2005. With more than half of Pontiac dealers also selling Buick models, the Buick Lucerne (along with the Chevrolet Impala) continued as GM's only mainstream full-size cars until the introduction of the 2008 G8.