2009 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette 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 6,162 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette (612 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 415 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. (197 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 32 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Corvette 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 Chevrolet Corvette. 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 Chevrolet Corvette (596 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 2009 Chevrolet Corvette has manual transmission. 2009 Chevrolet Corvette will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Corvette | 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Pontiac |
| Model | Corvette | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6162 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 612 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 596 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.3 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1582 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 66 L |
