1987 Lada Samara vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lada Samara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lada Samara would be higher. At 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Firebird (198 HP) has 124 more horse power than 1987 Lada Samara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1987 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 580 kg more than 1987 Lada Samara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1987 Lada Samara, 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 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Lada Samara. (119 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Lada Samara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lada Samara | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Lada | Pontiac |
| Model | Samara | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1458 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 198 HP |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 58 L |
