2005 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 222 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, 1988 Pontiac Grand Am (237 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (225 Nm). This means 1988 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Passat | 1988 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Pontiac |
| Model | Passat | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 69 L |
