1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,353 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (146 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 2 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Firebird. (257 Nm @ 3150 RPM). This means 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | 300 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 3353 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1528 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
