1996 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Mustang (212 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. (176 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Mustang weights approximately 64 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 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. 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. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang | 2002 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Mustang | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 3350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1406 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2750 mm |
