1997 BMW M3 vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Pontiac Grand Am (237 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1988 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 1988 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | M3 | Grand Am |
Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 237 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1235 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |