2009 BMW 320 vs. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2009 BMW 320. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 165 kg more than 2009 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 320 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 2009 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 BMW 320 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 320 | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 66 L |
