1961 Jensen 541 vs. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Jensen 541. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Jensen 541 would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Jensen 541 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1961 Jensen 541. (129 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 1961 Jensen 541. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Jensen 541 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am.
Because 1961 Jensen 541 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 1961 Jensen 541. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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. Let's talk about torque, 1961 Jensen 541 (310 Nm) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. (278 Nm). This means 1961 Jensen 541 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1961 Jensen 541 has manual transmission. 1961 Jensen 541 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Jensen 541 | 2001 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Jensen | Pontiac |
| Model | 541 | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
