PONTIAC, Mich., Feb. 6 1997 -- Pontiac will celebrate its 26th
anniversary as the Official Pace Car of NASCAR when the new Wide Track Grand Prix GTP coupe leads the field to the start/finish line in the Daytona 500.

The Grand Prix makes its return as the pace car for the first time since l992, when it was replaced by the Pontiac Firebird Trans Am.
"We're excited about the return of the Grand Prix as the Official Pace Car of NASCAR," said Pontiac Grand Prix Brand Manager Bill Heugh. "The Wide Track Grand Prix is a hot set of wheels, and the Daytona 500 is a perfect event to showcase the Grand Prix's exciting image."

This year will mark the sixth season a Pontiac Grand Prix has served as the Official Pace Car of NASCAR. The Grand Prix previously served as the pace car from 1988-1992.
The 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP features a 240 horsepower, 3800 Series II supercharged V6 engine, rack-and-pinion steering, and four wheel disc brakes.

The new Grand Prix bodystyle debuted on the NASCAR Winston Cup circuit last season. STP Pontiac driver Bobby Hamilton scored the new Grand Prix's first win with a victory in the DuraLube 500 at Phoenix International Raceway. In addition, the Grand Prix scored three poles. Hamilton won two top starting spots, while MBNA Pontiac driver Ward Burton had one.

Pontiac's involvement in NASCAR began in 1959 when a white Bonneville convertible served as the pace car for the first Daytona 500. In 1972, Pontiac began its affiliations as the Official Pace Car of NASCAR when a LeMans two-door hardtop led the field. Twenty-six years later, Pontiac is still setting the pace with exciting cars that attack the road.

SOURCE Pontiac Motor Division

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Mr. Dave
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2000 Daytona 500 Pace Car #1134
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