1997 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2005 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2005 Pontiac Grand Am. (175 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 102 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
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, 2005 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, 2005 Pontiac Grand Am (279 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | M3 | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1402 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
