2004 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 2,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 184 kg more than 1985 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. (179 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1985 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Pontiac |
| Model | New Beetle | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 2471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
