2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 14 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 334 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.
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, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1989 Pontiac Grand Am has manual transmission. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 1989 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
Model | Malibu | Grand Am |
Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 86 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1235 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 69 L |