2009 BMW 328 vs. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2009 BMW 328 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 3,349 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 328 (231 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am. (175 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am.
Because 2009 BMW 328 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 328. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am, 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, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 328. (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2002 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 328. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 328 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 328 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 328 | 2002 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 328 | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 54 L |
