1973 Ford Fairlane vs. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix (260 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1973 Ford Fairlane. (212 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1973 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 49 kg more than 1973 Ford Fairlane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Ford Fairlane 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 1973 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1973 Ford Fairlane (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix. (380 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1973 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ford Fairlane | 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Fairlane | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5766 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1664 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2860 mm |
