1988 BMW 525 vs. 1997 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 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 @ 5200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Firebird.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525. 1988 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1997 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1997 Pontiac Firebird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW 525 | 1997 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | BMW | Pontiac |
Model | 525 | Firebird |
Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2441 cc | 3785 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 198 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 239 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |