2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1984 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. (123 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 116 kg more than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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 E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. (204 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | 1984 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | E | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2630 mm |
