1988 Ford Tempo vs. 1979 Pontiac Trans Am
To start off, 1988 Ford Tempo is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Trans Am would be higher. At 6,555 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (220 HP) has 123 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (97 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo.
Because 1979 Pontiac Trans Am 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 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Ford Tempo, 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, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (434 Nm) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm). This means 1979 Pontiac Trans Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Tempo | 1979 Pontiac Trans Am | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Tempo | Trans Am |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 6555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 220 HP |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.6 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2750 mm |
