1971 BMW 3 vs. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,399 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 181 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. (264 Nm). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2002 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | 3 | Grand Am |
Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3399 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 264 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1199 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 76 L |