2003 Pontiac Grand Prix vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 would be higher. At 3,130 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1986 Volvo 242. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1986 Volvo 242. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 245 kg more than 1986 Volvo 242. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Volvo 242 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 1986 Volvo 242. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix (264 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volvo 242. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volvo 242. 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 1986 Volvo 242 has manual transmission. 1986 Volvo 242 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Pontiac Grand Prix | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
Make | Pontiac | Volvo |
Model | Grand Prix | 242 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3130 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 174 HP | 97 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 264 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3160 mm | 2660 mm |