2004 GXP over a 2002 SSEi
 

I currently own a 2002 ssei, of course fully loaded. Thinking of getting a 2004 gxp. I test drove one this evening and liked it, but wasn't terribly impressed with the "the get up and go" since it didn't have the supercharged induction. Am I missing something? This is your opportunity to convince me to get the GXP.... or not to.

GXP*

i would stick with the SSEi... the 3.8 is just a much more reliable motor and much more cost effective of a vehicle, you dont want to have to fix and tranny or engine problems on that northstar. Im dreading the day something breaks on my aurora

what kind of driving did you do with that GXP? the northstar engines don't make their power until they're revved over 4,000 RPM. around town they won't feel as torquey as the 3800, but on the highway or during passing maneuvers the GXP should have quite a bit of more power than the SSEi.

I did both city and highway. Now that you say that, it did have quite a bit top end power.

I owned a 2002 SSEi and traded it in for a 2005 GXP on April 30th.

First of all, the SSEi has a supercharger, not a turbocharger. The supercharger provides boosted performance immediately as opposed to a turbocharger which needs exhaust gas flow and spin up time to provide boosted performance.

My opinion on the SSEi vs. the GXP is subjective since I have no hard data other than the experience of owning and driving each.

I think in a one on one from a dead stop in stock form the SSEi would be a little ahead for about the first 60 feet but as soon as the GXP reached 3000 RPM it would be goodby SSEi. The Northstar engine really comes on strong above 3000 RPM. The extra torque and the 3.70 drive gear really get the GXP moving once the Northstar gets some revs. That is not to say the punch off the line is poor. It will light the tires just about anytime you choose to do so. I have embarrased Porsche owners with both the SSEi and the GXP.

My main motivation to move to a GXP was the dealer incentive and a $1000 certificate from GM which made it almost a no brainer to get the GXP. Also if you want a new GXP you better get it now since GM will not be making any more Bonnevilles. They are becoming harder to fine on the dealer lots.

I think the GXP Northstar has a lot of potential and perhaps there will be some aftermarket chips available soon to provide even better performance.

I have about 7000 miles on the GXP now and do not regret moving to it from the SSEi.

Thanks for the response.

I'd get the GXP, I own both types of engines (SC'd 3800 and a Northstar) both deliver fun in different doses.

I think over the long term if modifying is not your game, you'll grow to like the Northstar more over time.

Either way, both are winners. Good luck with your decision!

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i agree with the above and have had no probs from mine.. 8)

I put an 05 GXP through some brutal paces not too long ago. My 93 SSEi (modded) would easily put it away on the 1/4 mile. I've also driven perhaps 25 different Supercharged Bonnevilles in the last 3 years, and the GXP didn't compare much to them.

From a performance standpoint, I don't think the L67 can be touched by the Northstar except in freeway passing, and the L67 Supercharged motor is much easier modded to take the GXP in that category as well.

I would SSEi before GXP personally.

True, however as mentioned, if the modification game is not your flavour, GXP is probably the better choice. The potential for the Northstar to be an L67 killer is out there, however the aftermarket is not there. Thats what it comes down too.

Stock for stock, the 4.6L Northstar will out-perform across the majority of the powerbands.

Simply stated, the 3800 SC is pure grunt, the Northstar is svelte...choose your weapon ;)