2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari. (149 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari weights approximately 720 kg more than 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo.
Because 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari 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 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 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, 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari (325 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. (290 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 1981 Pontiac Grand Safari | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Monte Carlo | Grand Safari |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.1 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.9 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2950 mm |
