2002 BMW 330 vs. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2002 BMW 330 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 2,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 330 (193 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 330 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW 330 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 2002 BMW 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, both vehicles can yield 237 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 2002 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 2002 BMW 330 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 330 | 1989 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 330 | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2630 mm |
