2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (641 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 478 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 SLR McLaren. 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 SLR McLaren (821 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 584 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am. (237 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | 1988 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | SLR McLaren | Grand Am |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 641 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 821 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 69 L |