2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 vs. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. (197 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 578 kg more than 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500.
Because 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 Ford Shelby GT 500. 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 Ford Shelby GT 500 (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 346 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 Ford Shelby GT 500 has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 Ford Shelby GT 500 | 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
Make | Ford | Pontiac |
Model | Shelby GT 500 | Grand Prix |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5409 cc | 3785 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 500 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 651 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 66 L |