1989 Pontiac Grand Am vs. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 13 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 3,350 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am (176 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 171 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.
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 Pontiac Grand Am (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1989 Pontiac Grand Am has manual transmission. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Pontiac Grand Am | 2002 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Grand Am | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1406 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 54 L |
