1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 1989 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (223 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 495 kg more than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 1989 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | S | Grand Am |
Year Released | 1974 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4520 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 223 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 378 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1235 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2630 mm |