1987 Pontiac Grand Safari vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Pontiac Grand Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Pontiac Grand Safari would be higher. At 5,032 cc (8 cylinders), 1987 Pontiac Grand Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (266 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1987 Pontiac Grand Safari. (138 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1987 Pontiac Grand Safari.
Because 1987 Pontiac Grand Safari 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 1987 Pontiac Grand Safari. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander, 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, 1987 Pontiac Grand Safari (346 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Highlander. (249 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1987 Pontiac Grand Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Highlander.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Pontiac Grand Safari | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Pontiac | Toyota |
| Model | Grand Safari | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5032 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 5450 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2610 mm |
