2008 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2008 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 3,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Buick LaCrosse (200 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. (163 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 382 kg more than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Buick LaCrosse (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Grand Am. 2008 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1989 Pontiac Grand Am has manual transmission. 1989 Pontiac Grand Am will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Buick LaCrosse | 1989 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Buick | Pontiac |
| Model | LaCrosse | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3801 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 163 HP |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 69 L |
