Anyone remember Pontiac? The brand was like your weird uncle who always had crazy ideas—sometimes those ideas actually turn out great (like the GTO) and other times they end up like the Aztek. The Pontiac Solstice was somewhere in between. The brand’s answer to tiny roadsters like the Mazda MX-5 Miata and the Porsche Boxster had promise, and was certainly wilder than those two—while it lasted, that is. It played a somewhat major role in Michael Bay’s first Transformers movie and ran an entire campaign in Formula Drift with Rhys Millen behind the wheel. After that the small roadster became somewhat of an orphaned automotive oddity.
While starting out as a convertible, a targa/coupe model was released in 2009 and the GXP version came with a 260 hp 260 ft-lb 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder—making it a strong performer, if not as refined as its competition. It was built on GM’s Kappa platform purposed specifically for small rear wheel drive roadsters and came with StabiliTrak stability control and a limited slip differential as standard equipment. At just over 3,000 pounds, it was relatively lightweight as well. So, what was the problem? Besides the cramped interior filled with cheap plastic, its exterior styling (well received when new) arguably hasn’t aged well.
The Solstice GXP coupe is certainly an oddball, but it has some undeniable charm. And it’s also rare. This near-mint condition 2009 Pontiac Solstice GXP coupe is one of only 1,266 units made in total, and one of only 30 in this particular color in 2009. It is heading to the block at Mecum Auctions. The car in question has just 32,293 miles on the clock which isn’t bad at all for 13 year old car. It is an automatic, which may detract from its appeal to enthusiasts, but anyone looking for something rare and unique—and clean—might be able to enjoy it for what it is.
Bidding on this very bright yellow Solstice will go start during Mecum Kissimmee starting on January 4, 2023.
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