2006 Nissan Maxima vs. 1989 Pontiac Grand Safari
To start off, 2006 Nissan Maxima is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Pontiac Grand Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Grand Safari would be higher. At 5,032 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Pontiac Grand Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Maxima (265 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1989 Pontiac Grand Safari. (139 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1989 Pontiac Grand Safari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Pontiac Grand Safari weights approximately 330 kg more than 2006 Nissan Maxima.
Because 1989 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 1989 Pontiac Grand Safari. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Maxima, 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, both vehicles can yield 346 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Nissan Maxima | 1989 Pontiac Grand Safari | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Maxima | Grand Safari |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 5032 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 265 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2950 mm |
