2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 2,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Pontiac Grand Am (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 15 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 2001 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 1985 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | A | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2630 mm |
