1980 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 1989 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Pontiac Grand Am (163 HP) has 104 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 410 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Pontiac Grand Am (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Volkswagen Jetta | 1989 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | Volkswagen | Pontiac |
Model | Jetta | Grand Am |
Year Released | 1980 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 163 HP |
Torque | 95 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1235 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 69 L |