1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,350 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (228 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. (176 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 490 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 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2002 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | S | Grand Am |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3199 cc | 3350 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 176 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 315 Nm | 278 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1896 kg | 1406 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |