2001 BMW M3 vs. 1984 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 323 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. (179 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 1984 Pontiac Grand Am has manual transmission. 1984 Pontiac Grand Am will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1984 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | M3 | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
