1986 Pontiac Grand Am vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 26 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 345 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.
Because 2012 BMW Z4 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 2012 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (298 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
1986 Pontiac Grand Am | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
Make | Pontiac | BMW |
Model | Grand Am | Z4 |
Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2471 cc | 3000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 255 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 179 Nm | 298 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1475 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4239 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1791 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2497 mm |