2008 BMW X5 vs. 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari

To start off, 2008 BMW X5 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari. (138 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1976 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 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5, 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, 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X5. (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X5. 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X5 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW X5 1976 Pontiac Grand Safari
Make BMW Pontiac
Model X5 Grand Safari
Year Released 2008 1976
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2979 cc 4942 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 228 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 301 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 2080 kg 1870 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 5450 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2950 mm