Gone, but not forgotten - Prix-Disposed . Born a Pontiac Grand Prix GTP, its destiny was to become a GTX. What follows is a chronology of its short, but stellar life.

08OCT2001: Steven trades a 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier Z24 for a new 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP from Howard Pontiac-GMC-Hyundai in Elmhurst.  Vehicle has mere 8 miles on the odometer and still has the shipping wrap in the interior.  Purchase shortly after the 9/11 attacks, the car came with GMAC's 0% APR, so a GTX package was financed as well.

The GTX RAM AIR Grand Prix was a dealer installed package available from Street Legal Performance (SLP). Designed to enhance the already distinctive appearance, best-of-class performance and outstanding handling of the stock Grand Prix, SLP offered the GTX RAM AIR package from 1998-2003. Similar to SLP's Camaro SS and Firehawk OE vehicle programs, GTX RAM AIR content was backed by a three year/36,000 mile limited warranty on new vehicles.

Available only on the aftermarket, every genuine GTX RAM AIR Grand Prix features functional composite fiberglass hood with twin hood scoops, forced air induction system - including an air box with K&N filter, three GTX RAM AIR exterior cloisonné nameplates and two gold electro-plated, commemorative GTX RAM AIR key fobs.

Initial GTX RAM AIR options included embroidered floormats, 17x7" six-spoke, chrome plated aluminum alloy wheels with Michelin P235/55R17 Pilot Series tires, rear spoiler, and a HomeLink programmable sunvisor. However, by the close of the GTX RAM AIR program, SLP had assembled a full catalog of accessories, including three spoilers, two hoods, new wheels, floormats and headrest decals, as well as brake, suspension and performance upgrades.

09MAR2002: Steven takes the first images of GTX after adding an SLP Gen-1 spoiler, black reflective overlays, and custom floor and trunklid mat.

12APR2002: GTX is fitted with a state-of-the-art, CompuSTAR two-way, remote-start alarm system.

01MAY2002: Using the screen name "GTX Playa", Steven joins ClubGP, a national internet forum for Grand Prix enthusiasts.  

15JUN2002: A HomeLink visor is added.

10AUG2002: Steven relocates to Gurnee, Illinois, a far-northern suburb of Chicago. GTX is now protected by a climate-controlled garage.

15OCT2002: Steven joins the Chicago Grand Prix Club (CGPC), a local chapter of ClubGP.

29APR2003: Steven replaces black-on-black theme with yellow-on-black. New floor mats and trunklid mat accompany 17"X7" GTX Chrome wheels wrapped in Dunlop SP Sport A2 235/55/HR17.

23MAY2003:  CGPC Club members convince Steven to enter a local car show. GTX wins first place in the Stock 90's and Up class at the Sweeties Gourmet Summer Car Show.

15JUN2003: Spectators vote GTX into first place at Luke's Beef Summer Car Show, Stock 90's and Up class.

22JUN2003: GTX places first at JKS Gyros Summer Car Show, Stock 90's and Up class.

24JUL2003: GTX is awarded first place at Marquardt of Barrington 2003 All Pontiac Show, Modified 1998 to Present Grand Prix class.

16AUG2003: GTX places first in the All American Car Show at Culver's of McHenry, IL.

20SEP2003: GTX wins Gearfest5 Mildly Modded Domestic class.

20MAR2004: In honor of the first day of Spring, the GTX is taken to Lake Michigan for a photoshoot.

25JUL2004: GTX finishes second in the Marquardt of Barrington 2004 All Pontiac Show, Modified 1998 to Present Grand Prix class. 

18SEP2004: Still reeling from his first loss, Steven takes GTX to Moline, IL for 2004 Grand Prix Gathering. GTX garners another second place in the Modified 2001 class. Steven contemplates a change. 

05JAN2005: Snow and salt aren't the best friends for chrome, so Sacchi S35 wheels and Pirelli PZero Nero 235/55/ZR17 98W  tires are mounted.  CGPC members seem to appreciate the new look, but Steven has reservations.

16MAR2005: Steven ditches the Sacchi wheels and remounts the GTX wheels.  They are now covered with BF Goodrich Yellow Scorcher T/A 245/50 R17 98H.  Tinted gunmetal taillights adorn the GTX rear.

26MAY2005: Sacchi wheels and Pirelli tires are sold. A 8" Powered NOXX Nitrous GroundPounder subwoofer tube is added.

24JUL2005: Steven feels redeemed when GTX reclaims first place status at the Marquardt of Barrington 2005 All Pontiac Show in the Modified 1998 to Present Grand Prix class . Bowen park provides the backdrop for a celebratory photoshoot.

22OCT2005: 1993 Toyota Camry Wagon fails to yield right of way during a left turn and travels into the path of the GTX. The collision sends GTX careening into a third car. Damage to the GTX exceeds its market value.  Vehicle is parted out and remnants are scrapped. 

I miss the GTX, but my current ride, a 2005 Pontiac GTO , is working hard to make me forget.