2002 Pontiac Grand Prix vs. 1979 Pontiac Trans Am
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Trans Am would be higher. At 6,555 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (220 HP) has 47 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix. (173 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Because 1979 Pontiac Trans Am 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 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (434 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix. (264 Nm). This means 1979 Pontiac Trans Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix. 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 1979 Pontiac Trans Am has manual transmission. 1979 Pontiac Trans Am will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix | 1979 Pontiac Trans Am | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Grand Prix | Trans Am |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3129 cc | 6555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 220 HP |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2750 mm |
