1979 Pontiac Trans Am vs. 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport
To start off, 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Trans Am would be higher. At 6,555 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (220 HP) has 102 more horse power than 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport. (118 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am should accelerate faster than 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport.
Because 1979 Pontiac Trans Am 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 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport, 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, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (434 Nm) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport. (237 Nm). This means 1979 Pontiac Trans Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport. 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport has automatic transmission and 1979 Pontiac Trans Am has manual transmission. 1979 Pontiac Trans Am will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Pontiac Trans Am | 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport | |
Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
Model | Trans Am | Trans Sport |
Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6555 cc | 3135 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 220 HP | 118 HP |
Torque | 434 Nm | 237 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1670 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2800 mm |