1986 Pontiac Grand Am vs. 2004 Acura RL
To start off, 2004 Acura RL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Acura RL (225 HP) has 135 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. (90 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Acura RL weights approximately 545 kg more than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. 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, 2004 Acura RL (313 Nm) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. (179 Nm). This means 2004 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. 2004 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1986 Pontiac Grand Am has manual transmission. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Pontiac Grand Am | 2004 Acura RL | |
| Make | Pontiac | Acura |
| Model | Grand Am | RL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2471 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 313 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2920 mm |
