2002 Pontiac Grand Am vs. 1985 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,399 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 369 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am (264 Nm) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1985 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1985 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Pontiac Grand Am | 1985 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Grand Am | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3399 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1199 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
