1996 BMW 520 vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 1996 BMW 520 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 2,835 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. (129 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 520 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 520 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 1996 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 520 | 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 520 | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 76 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
