1988 Pontiac Grand Am vs. 2002 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2002 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Saab 03-Sep (182 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 211 kg more than 1988 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, 2002 Saab 03-Sep (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Pontiac Grand Am | 2002 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Pontiac | Saab |
| Model | Grand Am | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 61 L |
