Also, firmer brakes offered a more progressive feel and improved stopping power. The GT model, that bridged the gap between the

The 3.8-litre, or 3800 Series II V6 in GM speak, once rated among the world's 10 best engines according to Ward's Auto World. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

base SE and top-line GTP, included standard traction control. While helpful in slippery conditions when applying the throttle with tender care, the traction control systems improvement on grip was hardly noticeable under hard acceleration, even in the dry.

While the SE model, since discontinued, incorporated a 160-horsepower 3.1-litre V6 from 1997 through 1999 and a 175-horsepower mill from 2000 through 2003, the 195-horsepower 3.8-litre, which was updated to 200-horsepower in 2000, proved more popular. This is good, as it virtually mirrored the smaller engine in fuel economy, making the more powerful of the two the better choice in today's used car market. Incidentally, the 3.8-litre, or 3800

In GTP trim, the 3.8-litre engine produced a substantial 240-horsepower. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

Series II V6 in GM speak, once rated among the world's 10 best engines according to Ward's Auto World. Both engines are biased toward torque, with 185 to 195 lb-ft available in the 3.1-litre, depending on model year, and 220 to 225 in the 3.8-litre.

The same displacement in GTP trim, which was available throughout the car's 1997 through 2003 lifespan, pushed output up to a substantial 240-horsepower. What's more, torque mushroomed to a gut-wrenching 280 lb-ft! Much quicker, by the way, than any previous Grand Prix, big blocks included. If this model turns collectible, the GTP will be the one to have.