1948 Jensen Straight 8 vs. 1984 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 1984 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Jensen Straight 8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Jensen Straight 8 would be higher. At 3,860 cc (8 cylinders), 1948 Jensen Straight 8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Jensen Straight 8 (130 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1948 Jensen Straight 8 should accelerate faster than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Jensen Straight 8 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 Jensen Straight 8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1948 Jensen Straight 8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Pontiac Grand Am, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. 1984 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1948 Jensen Straight 8 has manual transmission. 1948 Jensen Straight 8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Jensen Straight 8 | 1984 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Jensen | Pontiac |
| Model | Straight 8 | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3860 cc | 2469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2630 mm |
