1997 Pontiac Bonneville Excitement doesn't mean cramped. By Paul A. Eisenstein, New Car Test Drive .com

In the 1980s, it was difficult to tell one General Motors sedan from another

as they appeared identical. But that isn't a problem with the Pontiac Bonneville.

In spite of sharing its underpinnings with the equally competent Oldsmobile

Eighty Eight and Buick LeSabre models, Pontiac's handsome four-door remains

one of the most visually and technically distinctive products in the GM

line-up. And it underscores Pontiac's position as GM's youthful, sporty

division.

With the competition relentlessly rolling out new products, one might

expect the Bonneville to look and feel somewhat dated, yet it remains fresh,

thanks partly to this year's enhancements.

Bonneville is a sports sedan that will appeal to enthusiasts despite,

or perhaps because of, its size. And there's a package and powertrain to

fit almost any need or budget.