Pontiac Bonneville VI gallery (1977–1981)

The sixth-generation Bonneville was extensively downsized in 1977 to achieve greater efficiency without compromising interior room.

All photos 53 I 10 1957–1958 II 0 1959–1960 III 0 1961–1964 IV 29 1965–1970 V 0 1971–1976 VI 0 1977–1981 VII (G-body) 0 1982–1986 VIII (H-body) 0 1987–1991 IX (H-body) 0 1992–1999 X (G-body) 8 2000–2005

Launched for the 1977 model year, the sixth-generation Pontiac Bonneville underwent General Motors' historic full-size downsizing program on the re-engineered B-body platform. The new car lost nearly 14 inches in length and over 800 pounds of curb weight while miraculously improving interior legroom and trunk capacity. Body styles were streamlined down to two-door coupes, four-door pillared sedans, and the wood-paneled Bonneville Safari station wagon. The engine lineup was diversified to balance power and fuel economy: standard offerings started with the Buick 3.8-liter V6, alongside Pontiac-built 301 (4.9L), 350 (5.7L), and 400 (6.6L) V8s, with later additions including Chevrolet 305 V8s and the infamous Oldsmobile 5.7-liter V8 Diesel. Transmissions were strictly 3-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic automatics (TH200 and TH350). In 1980, the Bonneville received an aerodynamic facelift featuring revised front grilles and reshaped formal rooflines. Distributed across North American markets, this downsized generation successfully navigated the transition to stricter corporate average fuel economy standards.