The SD-455 engine was originally earmarked for the 1973 Formula, Trans Am, LeMans, GTO, Grand Am, and Grand Prix. As the model year began, hundreds of orders were taken for SD-455 equipped cars, but due to delays certifying the engine for emissions, by March 1973 not a single SD-455 order had been filled. Pontiac thought about simply killing the project entirely and taking the loss, but enthusiastic engineers and marketeers suggested that since SD-455 engines had been built, it was more cost effective to sell them instead of scrapping them.
By February 1973 there were 673 outstanding orders (483 by customers) for SD-455 equipped cars. Pontiac conducted a survey to determine the status of the orders :
• About 50% of the customers stated the reason they ordered their Pontiac in the first place was for the SD-455 engine.
• 198 customers were still waiting for their order to be filled.
• 145 customers bought the same model, but with a lesser engine (almost all opted for the 455).
• 52 customers bought another car (21 were Pontiacs)
• 78 customers cancelled their order
With a limited supply of engines, in March 1973 Pontiac announced the cancellation of the SD-455 for all models except Formula and Trans Am. By year end, 43 Formulas and 252 Trans Ams received the SD-455, and there was one 1973 Grand Am SD-455 built as a pilot car.
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