2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 2,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 613 kg more than 1985 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 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford S-Max has manual transmission. 2008 Ford S-Max will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 1985 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | S-Max | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2630 mm |
