1999 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP Richard Petty Concept in Greensboro, NC

To celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Petty Enterprises, Richard Petty wanted to create a special "Limited Edition" NASCAR Pontiac that his fans could buy directly from their local Pontiac dealer. The project was conceived by Indy 500 winner Danny Sullivan who teamed with Bruce Canepa to create this one of a kind concept car. Petty was personally involved in the design, and approved every design element and performance upgrade.

GM supplied a new Pontiac Grand Prix GTP, and then asked their performance division Delphi to develop special engine upgrades specifically for this car. The Delphi modifications increased the standard 240-horsepower supercharged V6 engines output to an impressive 300-horsepower. The transmission, suspension and brakes have all been upgraded to handle the increase in power.

Other modifications include custom one-off aluminum wheels, special painted Petty graphics, full leather front and rear seats with Petty's embroidered signature, leather door cards with 50th anniversary plaque, stainless steel front grilles, hand-formed stainless steel exhaust tips, custom carbon fiber trim in the interior and engine bay, and a custom cold air intake.

Once underway, excitement for the project extended beyond GM and the design team with Canepa's friend and colleague Chip Foose coming on board to design the graphic elements, and to collaborate on color selections.

Upon completion the team, along with Richard Petty, presented the car to Pontiac and received rave reviews. It looked like the project was well on the way to becoming a reality until the bean counters got into the act. Ultimately the project was put on hold, and this car would become the only Richard Petty Grand Prix GTP produced.

Pontiac returned the car to Bruce Canepa, and it remains today in its original presentation condition - absolutely spectacular and show ready. This is a true factory Hot Rod with prototype parts and technology not seen outside of Detroit.