1996 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,399 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. (148 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 389 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1996 BMW M3 (305 Nm) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. (264 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 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:
1996 BMW M3 | 2002 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | M3 | Grand Am |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3001 cc | 3399 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 264 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1199 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |