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which year/model to get?

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Old Jul 31, 2007 | 03:15 PM
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Default which year/model to get?

So, I still LOVE my GP GTP, but after spending time with a bunch of cool Bonneys at WCBF, kinda wanting one of them too. What are the differences between the SLE, SSEI models? Any major differences in years (other than the obvious appearance differences)? Any info/opinions are appreciated.

Thanks!
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Old Jul 31, 2007 | 03:33 PM
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get an ssei with series II engine... it'* boosted.. lots of mods... and you won't regret it.
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Old Jul 31, 2007 | 03:58 PM
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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pontiac_Bonneville

good history lesson... typing out the differences would be an epic page of me rambling. hope that helps
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Old Jul 31, 2007 | 03:59 PM
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SE, SSE, SLE are the L36 NA 3.8L and SSEi is the L67 3.8L Supercharged*. You'll probably want to stick with 97+ as they are series 2 (which the GTP uses). 96 was series 2 also, but a different tranny. Pre 95 was the Series 1, with both NA and SC varients, which made decent power, but there is no highly available aftermarket for them (it'* there, just not as visible, or easy to get)


*96 and 97 offered a SE (RPO coded as the SLE package; added for the trim-****'* here) that had the L67 in it, but it is rarer.
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Old Jul 31, 2007 | 03:59 PM
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seats in the 96-99 are much more comfy. (personal preference)


2000+ look cooler.
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Old Jul 31, 2007 | 05:02 PM
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'92 to '95'* look more gangster. Plus their seats are soooo nice.

If I had the choice for any year, I think I'd go with a 2003 SSEi.
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Old Jul 31, 2007 | 05:16 PM
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If you're looking for power, which many do, the SSEi will be the better choice (though the NA engine has good power too). As stated, Series 1s don't have a huge aftermarket like the Series 2, but they still have PLENTY of potential.

The SLE is an option package, a step up from SEs, but are not supercharged except for the few rare ones that are. They have sportier body cladding than SEs, as do SSEi'*. They have the extra options which can include leather seats, HUD, sunroof, etc.

I love the 92-95 body style. 96-99 had a bit more refined styling, but for the most part they are the same inside and out as the 92-95, except for the Series 2 engine.
The 2000+ body style is much more aggressive, especially the SLE and SSEi. The interior is nicely improved over the previous years, and the ride and handling is better as well.

The seats ARE more comfortable from 92-99, especially the "AL7s" which are the 9-way (or 12-way) power seats. But I prefer the LOOK of the seats in my 2003. They are comfortable enough too.

There are a lot of things to consider if you're looking for a Bonne. Deciding what engine you want is a good first step. Since you have a GTP, my guess is you'll want the SSEi.
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Old Jul 31, 2007 | 05:35 PM
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Thanks for the great info!
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