Created February 29, 2000
Overview
The Turbo Grand Prix (also known as "TGP") is a rare, high-performance
Grand Prix built for only two years, 1989 and 1990. The engine was designed,
developed, and certified by McLaren
Engines. It is a 205HP turbocharged and intercooled 3.1L V6 that was used
only in the TGP and no other car. By using a small Garrett Airesearch
T-25 turbo, McLaren engineers were able to eliminate turbo lag altogether,
while improving low-end power. The car itself was a specialty vehicle built
by ASC (American Sunroof
Company, Inc.). The cars were typically equipped with every available
Pontiac Grand Prix option. Fog lamps, Power mirrors, A/C, cruise control,
keyless entry, and remote trunk release were all standard equipment. Only
options were CD player, leather seats, and power sunroof. Production of the
TGP was very limited, and there are no definitive production numbers. Some
claim only 500 were built, others say 1000, 1500, or even 2000. Who knows?
The most specific figures I've seen are 3725 coupes in 1989, 3750 coupes in
1990, and only 1000 STE sedans in 1990. The TGP is one of the most easily
upgradeable cars to this date. The turbocharged engine can be easily and inexpensively
upgraded to run 0-60 in less than 5 seconds and high 13's in the 1/4-mile,
all without upgrades to the small stock turbo! This is similar performance
to a late-model LS1 equipped F-body car (Camaro/Firebird). Not bad for luxury-sport
version of what was intended to be a practical FWD family car.
For more detailed information, pick your flavor of TGP: