2001 Pontiac Grand Am vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 310 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. 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 Pontiac Grand Am (278 Nm) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (240 Nm). This means 2001 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Pontiac Grand Am | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Grand Am | Polo |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2470 mm |
