1988 Pontiac Grand Am vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 16 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, 1988 Pontiac Grand Am (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (60 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 150 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1988 Pontiac Grand Am (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (113 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Pontiac Grand Am | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Grand Am | Polo |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 45 L |
