1951 Ford Custom vs. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 1989 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Ford Custom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Ford Custom would be higher. At 3,917 cc (8 cylinders), 1951 Ford Custom is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Pontiac Grand Am (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1951 Ford Custom. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 1951 Ford Custom.
Because 1951 Ford Custom 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 1951 Ford Custom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1951 Ford Custom has manual transmission. 1951 Ford Custom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Ford Custom | 1989 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Custom | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3917 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2630 mm |
