2005 Acura RL vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2005 Acura RL is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 3,474 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Acura RL (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Acura RL weights approximately 525 kg more than 1988 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, 2005 Acura RL (353 Nm) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. (237 Nm). This means 2005 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Acura RL | 1988 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Acura | Pontiac |
| Model | RL | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3474 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 69 L |
