1997 Pontiac Grand Prix vs. 1981 Pontiac 1000
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac 1000 would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac 1000. (64 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 590 kg more than 1981 Pontiac 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Pontiac 1000 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 1981 Pontiac 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac 1000. (109 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac 1000. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 1981 Pontiac 1000 has manual transmission. 1981 Pontiac 1000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | 1981 Pontiac 1000 | |
Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
Model | Grand Prix | 1000 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3785 cc | 1597 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 64 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 109 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2400 mm |