1991 Mazda 323 vs. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 1991 Mazda 323 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 2,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 205 kg more than 1991 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, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1986 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 323 | 1986 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 323 | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2630 mm |
