1978 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 1985 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chrysler Valiant (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler Valiant should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 290 kg more than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Chrysler Valiant 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 1978 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1978 Chrysler Valiant (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Chrysler Valiant | 1985 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
Model | Valiant | Grand Am |
Year Released | 1978 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4015 cc | 2471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 277 Nm | 179 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2630 mm |