1988 Pontiac Grand Am vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 20 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 36 kg more than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (149 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Pontiac Grand Am | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Grand Am | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1271 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 55 L |
