1987 Mazda 323 vs. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 1987 Mazda 323 is newer by 1 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 2,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 260 kg more than 1987 Mazda 323. 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, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1986 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 323. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1987 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1987 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda 323 | 1986 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 323 | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2630 mm |
