Grand Prix to pace Daytona 500

DETROIT - The Pontiac Grand Prix GTP will pace the field for the 42nd running of the Daytona 500 on February 20. To help commemorate the WideTrack Grand Prix's return to Daytona, Pontiac will produce a limited edition Daytona 500 replica that will bring the excitement of the Great American Race to the street.

"At Pontiac, we have built a high-performance legacy in tune with the wishes and desires of the American car buyer," said Bill Heugh, Grand Prix brand manager. "In dealerships across the country, the Grand Prix continues to set a remarkable sales pace, proving that wider is better. In 1999, the Grand Prix had one of its best seasons ever on the racetrack and we hope to exceed those accomplishments this season.

"Pontiac is proud of the Grand Prix's illustrious history at the Great American Race. There is no better series in motorsports, and no better race to showcase the performance and unique characteristics of the Grand Prix GTP."

The 2000 Grand Prix GTP pace car features a 3.8-liter 3800 Supercharged Series II fuel-injected V6 engine and a four-speed, electronically-controlled automatic transmission. The car is equipped with a Ram Air System and 18-inch aluminum wheels with Goodyear F1 tires.

The limited-edition Grand Prix Daytona 500 replica comes with the Galaxy Silver Metallic exterior paint, unique 3-spoke 16" aluminum wheels, Daytona 500 Edition rear spoiler and exhaust tips, Daytona 500 Edition heat extractors on the hood, Daytona 500 embroidery on the front seats and Daytona 500 Edition exterior decals. Race fans will get a chance at winning their very own Grand Prix pace car replica by filling out a brief registration form at the Pontiac Racing NASCAR display.

Since 1959, when the Bonneville Convertible led the starting field to the green flag, Pontiac has provided the pace car for the Winston Cup season 's kickoff event 33 times. This year will mark the 11th time that the Grand Prix has served in this distinguished capacity.