2004 Pontiac Grand Am takes a while to start

why does it take a while to start?

How could anyone possibly know the answer to that question with no more information than that?

My best guess is; it is 14 years old and likely has 150,000 miles or more (you never said). That alone would cause a slow startup.

Yes, @AlexDayus, as @Mustangman said, perhaps someone can help you if you tell people some more about your vehicle and the problem.