1986 Fiat Croma vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird

To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Fiat Croma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Fiat Croma would be higher. At 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Fiat Croma (154 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Fiat Croma should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 348 kg more than 1986 Fiat Croma.

Because 1997 Pontiac Firebird 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 1997 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Fiat Croma, 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, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat Croma. (235 Nm @ 2350 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat Croma.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Fiat Croma 1997 Pontiac Firebird
Make Fiat Pontiac
Model Croma Firebird
Year Released 1986 1997
Body Type Hatchback Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 3353 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 154 HP 146 HP
Engine RPM 5250 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 235 Nm 257 Nm
Torque RPM 2350 RPM 3150 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1180 kg 1528 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4920 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1900 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2570 mm