1986 Ford Escort vs. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am (170 HP) has 95 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 518 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. 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, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am (264 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2002 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Escort | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1413 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 54 L |
