2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix. (158 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 642 kg more than 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix. (203 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Explorer | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 76 L |
