1990 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 323 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 120 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 426 kg more than 1990 Mazda 323. 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 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1990 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1990 Mazda 323 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:
| 1990 Mazda 323 | 2002 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 323 | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 3350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1406 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2750 mm |
