1989 Pontiac Grand Am vs. 1999 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1999 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. (163 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 270 kg more than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Pontiac Firebird 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 1999 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Pontiac Grand Am, 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, 1999 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Pontiac Grand Am | 1999 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Grand Am | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 58 L |
