2006 Pontiac Grand Prix vs. 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari
To start off, 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix (260 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari weights approximately 453 kg more than 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Because 1986 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 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix (380 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari. (325 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix | 1986 Pontiac Grand Safari | |
| Make | Pontiac | Pontiac |
| Model | Grand Prix | Grand Safari |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3786 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 101.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1347 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2950 mm |
