2008 BMW 523 vs. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 3,350 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am (176 HP) has 1 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 126 kg more than 2008 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 523 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 2008 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am, 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, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 523 | 2002 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | 523 | Grand Am |
Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3350 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 176 HP |
Torque | 230 Nm | 278 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1406 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |