2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Pontiac Grand Am (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 305 kg more than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1988 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | C | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 69 L |
