The Pontiac Phoenix was a compact car that was sold from 1977 to 1984 by Pontiac. There were two generations of the Phoenix, both based on popular Chevrolet models, and both using the GM X platform designation. It was named for the mythological Phoenix, which would die in a self-inflicted fire and be reborn from the ashes. The Phoenix was replaced by the Grand Am in 1985.
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First generation (1977–1979)<span class="anchor" id="1"></span><span class="anchor" id="1977"></span>
The rear-wheel drive Phoenix was introduced for 1977 as an upscale version of the Pontiac Ventura, and replaced the Ventura entirely for 1978. There was a minor exterior refresh and a new PJ model for 1983, followed by a name change for the LJ and SJ to LE and SE, respectively, for the 1984 model year.
Available engines were a 2.5 L Iron Duke 4-cylinder, carried over from the previous Phoenix, and a new 2.8 L LE2 V6, both of which were mated to a standard 4-speed manual transmission or optional 3-speed automatic. The high-output 2.8 L LH7 V6 was standard on the Phoenix SJ/SE for 1982 and a dangerous tendency for the car to lock the rear wheels upon emergency braking (1980 models only).
The Phoenix was replaced for 1985 by a revived Grand Am