2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 809 kg more than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Ford Explorer | 1986 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Explorer | Grand Am |
Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4009 cc | 2471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 335 Nm | 179 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 101.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 76.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2630 mm |