2005 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 20 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 378 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, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. (179 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | 1985 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Malibu | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 2471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2630 mm |
