2006 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 18 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1035 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.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (511 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1988 Pontiac Grand Am has manual transmission. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz R | 1988 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | R | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2270 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 69 L |
