2009 BMW M3 vs. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 324 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 680 kg more than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 1986 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | M3 | Grand Am |
Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 179 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2630 mm |