1972 Pontiac Grand Prix vs. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix (247 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 670 kg more than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix (462 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix | 1986 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Grand Prix | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6547 cc | 2471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 462 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2630 mm |
