1996 Ferrari 550 vs. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am

To start off, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ferrari 550. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ferrari 550 would be higher. At 5,474 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Ferrari 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ferrari 550 (485 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 337 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ferrari 550 should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ferrari 550 weights approximately 260 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 Ferrari 550 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 Ferrari 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 Ferrari 550 (568 Nm) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. (278 Nm). This means 1996 Ferrari 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1996 Ferrari 550 has manual transmission. 1996 Ferrari 550 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Ferrari 550 2001 Pontiac Grand Am
Make Ferrari Pontiac
Model 550 Grand Am
Year Released 1996 2001
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5474 cc 3498 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 485 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 7000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 568 Nm 278 Nm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1690 kg 1430 kg
Vehicle Length 4550 mm 4740 mm
Vehicle Width 1940 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1280 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2460 mm 2720 mm