2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 251 kg more than 2001 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) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. (278 Nm). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. 2001 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. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 2001 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | S-Max | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2720 mm |
